Vegetarian Pho

Ingredients

This vegetarian adaptation of Pho replaces the traditional beef or chicken broth with a flavorful vegetable broth. The meat is substituted with tofu or a variety of vegetables, ensuring a protein-packed and satisfying meal for vegetarians. The essence of the original Pho is preserved through the use of aromatic herbs, spices, and traditional garnishes. We alse have the original recipe for Pho, so you can check it out.

• 8 cups (1.9 liters) vegetable broth 8 cups (1.9 liters) vegetable broth
• 2 cinnamon sticks 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 star anise 4 star anise
• 4 cloves 4 cloves
• 1 onion, peeled and halved 1 onion, peeled and halved
• 1-inch (2.5 cm) piece of ginger, sliced 1-inch (2.5 cm) piece of ginger, sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 8 ounces (225 grams) rice noodles 8 ounces (225 grams) rice noodles
• 8 ounces (225 grams) tofu, sliced into strips or your choice of vegetables (such as mushrooms, bok choy, and carrots) 8 ounces (225 grams) tofu, sliced into strips or your choice of vegetables (such as mushrooms, bok choy, and carrots)
• 1 cup (240 ml) bean sprouts 1 cup (240 ml) bean sprouts
• 1/2 cup (15 grams) fresh cilantro leaves 1/2 cup (15 grams) fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/2 cup (15 grams) fresh Thai basil leaves 1/2 cup (15 grams) fresh Thai basil leaves
• 1/2 cup (15 grams) fresh mint leaves 1/2 cup (15 grams) fresh mint leaves
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving
• Sriracha or chili sauce, for serving Sriracha or chili sauce, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 8g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, combine the vegetable broth, cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, onion, ginger, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. 2.
   While the broth is simmering, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. 3.
   If using tofu, heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. 4.
   Strain the broth to remove the spices, onion, and ginger. Return the broth to the pot and bring it back to a simmer.
5. 5.
   Divide the cooked rice noodles among serving bowls. Top with tofu or your choice of vegetables.
6. 6.
   Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and tofu/vegetables.
7. 7.
   Serve the Vegetarian Pho with bean sprouts, cilantro, Thai basil, mint leaves, green onions, lime wedges, and Sriracha or chili sauce on the side. Let each person customize their bowl according to their taste.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice noodles — Follow the package instructions for cooking time as it may vary depending on the brand. Be careful not to overcook them to maintain a slightly chewy texture.
• Tofu — For a firmer texture, press the tofu before slicing it. Place the tofu between paper towels and place a heavy object on top to remove excess moisture. This will help the tofu hold its shape when cooked.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor of the broth, toast the cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves in a dry pan for a few minutes before adding them to the pot.
• Customize your Vegetarian Pho by adding your favorite vegetables such as sliced bell peppers, snow peas, or baby corn.
• For a spicier kick, add a few slices of fresh chili pepper to the broth while simmering.
• If you prefer a sweeter broth, adjust the amount of brown sugar or hoisin sauce to your taste.
• Leftover Vegetarian Pho can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed.

Serving advice

Serve the Vegetarian Pho hot in individual bowls, allowing each person to garnish their bowl with bean sprouts, fresh herbs, lime wedges, and Sriracha or chili sauce according to their preference. Provide chopsticks and spoons for a traditional eating experience.

Presentation advice

To make the Vegetarian Pho visually appealing, arrange the toppings neatly on top of the noodles and tofu/vegetables. Sprinkle the fresh herbs on the surface and place a lime wedge on the side of each bowl. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will make the dish even more enticing.