Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings:
- Serves 4
This Flavorful Vegan Pho is a warm and comforting Vietnamese soup that’s perfect for any time of year. Packed with aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and rice noodles, this pho is both delicious and nutritious. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this delightful dish!
Ingredients:
For the Broth:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 large onion, halved
- 3-inch piece of ginger, sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 star anise
- 4 cloves
- 1 teaspoon of coriander seeds
- 8 cups of vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- Salt to taste
For the Pho:
- 8 ounces of rice noodles
- 1 cup of sliced mushrooms (shiitake, oyster, or button mushrooms)
- 1 block of tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 cup of bean sprouts
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cup of baby bok choy, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
- Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, and mint)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Hoisin sauce (for serving)
- Sriracha (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
- Char the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the halved onion and sliced ginger, and cook until they are charred on the edges, about 5 minutes. This charring process adds a depth of flavor to the broth that is essential for an authentic pho experience.
- Toast the Spices: Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the cinnamon stick, star anise, cloves, and coriander seeds. Toast the spices for 1-2 minutes to release their aromas. Toasting the spices helps to bring out their natural oils and enhances their flavors.
- Simmer the Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Strain the broth to remove the solids, and return the clear broth to the pot. Season with salt to taste. Simmering the broth for a longer period allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and aromatic base for the pho.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
- Prepare the Noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Rice noodles cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. They should be tender but still have a bit of bite.
Step 3: Prepare the Toppings
- Cook the Tofu: In a separate skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove from heat and set aside. Crispy tofu adds a delightful texture to the pho and absorbs the flavors of the broth well.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Slice the mushrooms, and prepare the bean sprouts, julienned carrot, chopped baby bok choy, and sliced jalapeño. Fresh vegetables add a crunch and freshness to the pho, balancing the rich and savory broth.
Step 4: Assemble the Pho
- Divide the Noodles: Divide the cooked rice noodles among serving bowls. Having the noodles at the bottom allows them to soak up the broth and become infused with its flavors.
- Add the Toppings: Arrange the tofu, mushrooms, bean sprouts, carrot, and bok choy on top of the noodles. The variety of toppings not only adds color and texture to the dish but also enhances the nutritional value.
- Pour the Broth: Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and toppings. The hot broth will warm the toppings and meld all the flavors together.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Garnish: Garnish the pho with fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, and mint) and lime wedges. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and aroma, while lime wedges provide a zesty finish.
- Condiments: Serve with hoisin sauce and sriracha on the side for added flavor. These condiments allow each person to adjust the seasoning and spice level to their liking.
- Enjoy: Enjoy this warm and comforting bowl of vegan pho! The combination of rich broth, fresh herbs, and crunchy vegetables creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
Tips and Variations:
- Extra Protein: Add some seitan or tempeh for added protein. These plant-based proteins can be marinated and grilled for extra flavor.
- Different Vegetables: Substitute or add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for variety. This is a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have in the fridge.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra jalapeños or a dash of chili oil for more heat. If you like your pho extra spicy, you can also add some sliced Thai chili peppers.
This Flavorful Vegan Pho is a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of aromatic spices and fresh ingredients creates a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Enjoy the rich and savory flavors of this delightful dish. Happy cooking!
