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Aromatic Vegan Pho: A Symphony of Flavors

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A steaming bowl of Aromatic Vegan Pho brings together a symphony of flavors and textures in a plant-based version of the beloved Vietnamese classic. This broth is rich, fragrant, and spiced to perfection, simmered with warm spices and filled with fresh herbs, tender rice noodles, and crisp vegetables. Ideal for a cozy dinner, this vegan pho is both light and satisfying, perfect for any occasion.

Aromatic Vegan Pho: A Symphony of Flavors


Key Information:

  • Preparation time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking time: 40 minutes
  • Total time: 1 hour
  • Number of servings: 4
  • Serving size: 1 large bowl

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 60 g
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Sodium: 850 mg

Ingredients:

Broth:

  • 1 large onion, halved
  • 1 large piece of fresh ginger (5 cm / 2 inches), halved
  • 2 star anise
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 1 tablespoon coriander seeds (15 g)
  • 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
  • 1.5 liters (6 cups) vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (15 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (15 g) or agave syrup
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (15 ml)
  • Salt to taste

Noodles & Toppings:

  • 200g (7 oz) rice noodles
  • 200g (7 oz) tofu, cubed and pan-fried (optional)
  • 100g (3.5 oz) bean sprouts
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • Fresh herbs: Thai basil, cilantro, and mint
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • 1-2 red chilies, sliced (optional)
  • 2-3 green onions, sliced
  • Hoisin sauce and sriracha, for serving

Method of Preparation:

  1. Char the onion and ginger: Preheat your oven broiler or use an open flame. Place the onion and ginger halves under the broiler or over direct flame, charring them until blackened in spots, about 5 minutes. This step adds depth and smokiness to the broth.
  2. Toast the spices: In a dry skillet, lightly toast the star anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Prepare the broth: In a large pot, add the charred onion, ginger, toasted spices, vegetable broth, soy sauce, sugar, and rice vinegar. Bring the broth to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 30-35 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  4. Strain the broth: After simmering, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the solids, and return the clear, aromatic broth to the pot. Season with salt to taste.
  5. Cook the rice noodles: While the broth is simmering, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  6. Prepare the toppings: Arrange your toppings—bean sprouts, pan-fried tofu, carrot, fresh herbs, lime wedges, chilies, and green onions—on a platter for easy assembly.
  7. Assemble the pho: Divide the cooked rice noodles between bowls. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles, then top with tofu (if using), bean sprouts, carrots, and fresh herbs. Serve with lime wedges, hoisin sauce, and sriracha on the side for customization.

Tips for Culinary Success:

  1. Char the aromatics: Don’t skip charring the onion and ginger—it adds a smoky depth that makes the broth taste authentic and rich.
  2. Balance the flavors: Adjust the broth’s sweetness and saltiness to your taste with more soy sauce or sugar.
  3. Prep in advance: You can make the broth ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve, allowing the flavors to develop even more.
  4. Add protein: For extra heartiness, pan-fry tofu or add tempeh to the pho for a satisfying, protein-rich meal.
  5. Customize the toppings: The beauty of pho is in the toppings! Add or swap out your favorites like mushrooms, bok choy, or edamame.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use a different type of noodles? Rice noodles are traditional for pho, but you can also use soba noodles or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
  2. Is this pho gluten-free? Yes, this vegan pho is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari).
  3. Can I make the broth spicier? Absolutely! Add sliced chilies to the broth while it simmers or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
  4. What other vegetables can I add? You can add sliced mushrooms, baby bok choy, or broccoli for additional nutrients and texture.
  5. How long does the broth last? The broth can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat it gently on the stove when ready to serve.

Closing Paragraph:

Aromatic Vegan Pho is the perfect marriage of bold, fragrant broth and fresh, vibrant toppings. Whether you’re craving a light yet filling meal or a cozy bowl of comfort, this vegan pho delivers on all fronts. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy the symphony of flavors that comes together in every spoonful.

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