Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Vietnam, without ever leaving your kitchen! This vegan pho noodle soup is not just a meal – it's an experience that combines aromatic spices, delicate rice noodles, and a soul-warming broth that will make you forget everything you thought you knew about plant-based cooking. Whether you're a seasoned vegan, a curious foodie, or someone looking to expand your recipe repertoire, this Vietnamese-inspired masterpiece promises to tantalize your senses and leave you craving more with every spoonful.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 cloves ginger, sliced
- 2 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 200g rice noodles
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- Fresh basil leaves
- Fresh lime wedges
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics by peeling and quartering the onion, and slicing the ginger into thin pieces.
- In a large pot, dry roast the star anise and cinnamon stick over medium heat for 2-3 minutes to release their fragrant oils, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add the quartered onion and sliced ginger to the pot, continuing to toast until the onion edges become slightly charred and fragrant.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the pot, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the broth's flavor.
- Let the broth simmer with the aromatics for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse into the liquid.
- While the broth is simmering, prepare the rice noodles according to package instructions, typically by soaking in hot water for 5-7 minutes until they become tender but still slightly firm.
- Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve, removing the onion, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick, leaving a clear, fragrant liquid.
- Divide the cooked rice noodles evenly among four serving bowls.
- Carefully ladle the hot, strained broth over the noodles, ensuring each bowl is filled to the brim.
- Top each bowl with fresh bean sprouts and torn fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately with fresh lime wedges on the side, allowing diners to squeeze lime juice to taste and adjust the soup's brightness.
Tips
- Toasting Spices is Key: Take your time dry roasting the star anise and cinnamon stick. This crucial step releases deep, complex flavors that are the heart and soul of authentic pho.
- Broth Matters: Use high-quality vegetable broth as your base, and don't rush the simmering process. The longer the aromatics infuse, the more depth your broth will have.
- Noodle Texture is Critical: Be careful not to overcook the rice noodles. They should be tender but still have a slight bite – aim for that perfect al dente texture.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Use fresh basil leaves and bean sprouts. Their crisp texture and bright flavors are essential to the traditional pho experience.
- Customize Your Bowl: Serve with lime wedges on the side and encourage diners to adjust the soup's brightness to their liking. The personal touch is what makes homemade pho special.
- Prep Ahead: You can make the broth in advance and reheat it when ready to serve, which actually allows the flavors to develop even more intensely.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
