Pho is a dish that warms the soul. On a rainy day or a chilly evening, a bowl of hearty broth, noodles, and fresh herbs can lift the spirits like nothing else. When I’m craving something comforting, vegetarian vegan pho comes to mind. This delightful soup isn’t just for fancy dinners; it fits right into a cozy night at home, a gathering with friends, or even a simple lunch.
What pairs beautifully with pho, you ask? A plate of crispy spring rolls with a zesty dipping sauce is always a winner. Add in some spicy hoisin sauce, and you’re in for a treat!
What is Vegetarian Vegan Pho?
Vegetarian vegan pho is a plant-based version of the traditional Vietnamese noodle soup. Unlike the classic recipe, which typically includes beef or chicken broth, this variation showcases rich vegetable stock.
Aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and rice noodles come together to create something truly special. It’s vibrant, bursting with flavor, and entirely wholesome.
You will also like the following Soup recipes!
- Copycat Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup
- Panera Bread 10 Vegetable Soup
- Panera Black Bean Soup Recipe
The Ingredients
To make this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
For the Broth:
- 1 medium yellow onion, quartered
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, coarsely chopped
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger root, sliced into coins
- 3 whole star anise pods
- 3 whole cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 L rich vegetable stock (about 8 cups)
- 3 cups filtered water
- Soy sauce, to taste
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (adds brightness and depth)
- 1 package wide rice noodles
For the Toppings (mix and match as desired):
- Fresh basil leaves (Thai basil if available for extra aroma)
- Fresh cilantro sprigs
- Fresh mint leaves
- Mung bean sprouts
- Fresh green onions, thinly sliced
- Thinly sliced hot peppers (Mirasol peppers are great—long, red, and mildly spicy)
- Pickled radish slices (for a tangy crunch)
- Crushed roasted peanuts
- Sautéed mushrooms (shiitakes recommended for rich umami)
- Sautéed tofu cubes
- Lime wedges
- Hot chili sauce
How to Make Vegetarian Vegan Pho
In my experience, preparing vegetarian vegan pho is a delightful journey. You’ll find that making the broth is where the magic begins, and assembling the dish is just as enjoyable.
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the quartered onion. Don’t rush this part. Let the onion char a bit, bringing out deeper flavors. Add the coarsely chopped garlic and sliced ginger to the pot, sautéing until they become fragrant. This will only take a couple of minutes.
Step 2: Spice it Up
Next, add the star anise, cloves, and cinnamon stick. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be nothing short of enchanting. Trust me; your neighbors might start sniffing the air! Stir the spices into the sautéed mix for about a minute. This step enhances the flavor profile of the broth.
Step 3: Add the Liquids
Pour in the vegetable stock and filtered water. Let it come to a simmer, and as it bubbles, reduce the heat to low. You want it to gently simmer for a while to capture all those flavors, ideally for about 30-40 minutes.
Step 4: Season the Broth
After the broth has simmered, it’s time to season. Add soy sauce to taste. This will add umami notes that make your broth incredibly savory. A splash of rice vinegar boosts the flavors further, adding that much-needed brightness.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
While your broth is making magic, boil another pot of water. Add the wide rice noodles and cook them according to the package directions. They typically take just a few minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps avoid mushy noodles later.
Step 6: Assemble Your Bowl
In a deep bowl, place a generous portion of the rice noodles. Ladle hot broth over the noodles. Then, it’s time to pile on your toppings! Whether you go heavy on the herbs or prefer a sprinkle of crushed peanuts, this is your opportunity to get creative.
Notes
- Don’t rush the broth. Take your time when simmering. Quality takes patience.
- Taste as you go. Adjust the soy sauce and rice vinegar based on your preference for saltiness and tang.
- Be adventurous with toppings. Use what you have on hand, and feel free to mix and match based on your mood.
- Make extra broth. It stores well and is great for future meals.
- Personalize it! This recipe is flexible. If there’s a veggie you adore, toss it in!
Storage Tips
Storing pho is straightforward. If you have leftover broth, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Noodles and toppings can be stored separately for optimal freshness. I recommend using the noodles within two days for the best texture.
Nutrition Information
One serving of vegetarian vegan pho contains approximately:
- Calories: 300
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 4g
Nutritional values can vary based on the ingredients and quantities used.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with Fresh Lime Wedges. A squeeze of lime adds a zesty kick.
- Top with Sautéed Tofu Cubes. They add protein and a delightful texture.
- Include Pickled Vegetables. Pickled radish or carrots enhance flavor with tanginess.
- Serve with Sriracha. A drizzle of this chili sauce can add the perfect level of heat.
- Pair with a Side Salad. A light cucumber salad complements the broth beautifully.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Vegetarian Vegan Pho Recipe?
- Mushroom broth. Rich in flavor and depth, mushroom broth can replace vegetable stock for added umami.
- Zucchini noodles. For a low-carb version, zucchini noodles work well to replace traditional rice noodles.
- Seitan or jackfruit. For added protein, seitan or jackfruit can mimic meaty textures wonderfully.
- Other herbs. If basil isn’t available, try parsley or dill for different aromatic profiles.
- Chickpea noodles. For an extra protein boost, chickpea-based noodles could be a great substitute.
Equipment
- large pot
Ingredients
For the Broth:
- 1 medium yellow onion quartered
- 4 cloves fresh garlic coarsely chopped
- 1- inch piece of fresh ginger root sliced into coins
- 3 whole star anise pods
- 3 whole cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 L rich vegetable stock about 8 cups
- 3 cups filtered water
- Soy sauce to taste
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar adds brightness and depth
- 1 package wide rice noodles
For the Toppings (mix and match as desired):
- Fresh basil leaves Thai basil if available for extra aroma
- Fresh cilantro sprigs
- Fresh mint leaves
- Mung bean sprouts
- Fresh green onions thinly sliced
- Thinly sliced hot peppers Mirasol peppers are great—long, red, and mildly spicy
- Pickled radish slices for a tangy crunch
- Crushed roasted peanuts
- Sautéed mushrooms shiitakes recommended for rich umami
- Sautéed tofu cubes
- Lime wedges
- Hot chili sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics
- Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the quartered onion. Don’t rush this part. Let the onion char a bit, bringing out deeper flavors. Add the coarsely chopped garlic and sliced ginger to the pot, sautéing until they become fragrant. This will only take a couple of minutes.
Step 2: Spice it Up
- Next, add the star anise, cloves, and cinnamon stick. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be nothing short of enchanting. Trust me; your neighbors might start sniffing the air! Stir the spices into the sautéed mix for about a minute. This step enhances the flavor profile of the broth.
Step 3: Add the Liquids
- Pour in the vegetable stock and filtered water. Let it come to a simmer, and as it bubbles, reduce the heat to low. You want it to gently simmer for a while to capture all those flavors, ideally for about 30-40 minutes.
Step 4: Season the Broth
- After the broth has simmered, it’s time to season. Add soy sauce to taste. This will add umami notes that make your broth incredibly savory. A splash of rice vinegar boosts the flavors further, adding that much-needed brightness.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
- While your broth is making magic, boil another pot of water. Add the wide rice noodles and cook them according to the package directions. They typically take just a few minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps avoid mushy noodles later.
Step 6: Assemble Your Bowl
- In a deep bowl, place a generous portion of the rice noodles. Ladle hot broth over the noodles. Then, it’s time to pile on your toppings! Whether you go heavy on the herbs or prefer a sprinkle of crushed peanuts, this is your opportunity to get creative.
Notes
- Don’t rush the broth. Take your time when simmering. Quality takes patience.
- Taste as you go. Adjust the soy sauce and rice vinegar based on your preference for saltiness and tang.
- Be adventurous with toppings. Use what you have on hand, and feel free to mix and match based on your mood.
- Make extra broth. It stores well and is great for future meals.
- Personalize it! This recipe is flexible. If there’s a veggie you adore, toss it in!
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make pho without soy sauce?
Absolutely! If you’re avoiding soy, consider using coconut aminos or a gluten-free tamari as a substitute.
2. How spicy can I make it?
That’s entirely up to you! Start with a pinch of hot pepper and build up to your spicy level. Fresh slices on top can always add an extra punc
3. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free rice noodles and check the labels on your broth and sauces to ensure they’re gluten-free.
4. How do you prevent the noodles from getting mushy?
The trick is to rinse the noodles under cold water after cooking. This halts further cooking and maintains the right texture.
5. What can I do with leftover broth?
Leftover broth makes an excellent base for vegetable soups, sauces, or even risottos! The flavor is versatile and can elevate many dishes.
Conclusion
Vegetarian vegan pho is a delightful dish that transports you right into the heart of Vietnam without taking a flight. It’s comforting, deeply flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you enjoy it as a solo dining experience or serve it to friends, the warmth of this soup is sure to bring smiles.
You don’t have to be a pro chef to whip this dish up. Embark on this culinary adventure, have fun experimenting with flavors, and before you know it, you’re likely to be serving up bowls of pho like a seasoned chef! So, grab your apron, gather the ingredients, and dive into a bowl of love!