Phở chay
Bữa trưa • Việt Nam
How to Make Vegetarian Pho (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Vegetarian Pho is a beloved Vietnamese noodle soup, renowned for its aromatic broth, vibrant herbs, and nourishing ingredients. Originating from the bustling streets of Vietnam, Pho is deeply woven into the fabric of daily life and culture. Traditionally enjoyed at breakfast but now popular for lunch and dinner, this vegetarian adaptation respects the essence of classic Pho while offering a lighter, plant-based option. The heart of Vegetarian Pho lies in its clear, fragrant broth, infused with spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves, reminiscent of the lively street food stalls found throughout Vietnam. This dish is a perfect showcase of Vietnam’s culinary philosophy—balancing flavors, freshness, and nutrition. Packed with rice noodles, seasonal vegetables, tofu, and a fresh medley of herbs like Thai basil, cilantro, and scallions, Vegetarian Pho delivers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking a wholesome, satisfying, and low-fat meal that fits seamlessly into a health-conscious lifestyle while allowing you to experience the authentic flavors of Vietnam.
Ingredients(for 1 large bowl (typical Vietnamese portion))
- 120g Rice noodles (banh pho) (medium flat noodles)
- 150g Firm tofu (cubed)
- 1 medium Onion (sliced)
- 1 thumb-sized piece Ginger (sliced)
- 2 pods Star anise
- 1 stick Cinnamon stick
- 3 pieces Cloves
- 1 small Carrot (sliced)
- 1 small Daikon radish (sliced) - optional
- 1.5 liters Vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp Soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup Bean sprouts (fresh)
- 1 handful Thai basil (fresh)
- 1 handful Cilantro (fresh)
- 2 stalks Scallions (sliced)
- 1 Lime (quartered)
- 1 small Chili (sliced, optional for spice) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Char the onion and ginger: In a dry pan over medium heat, place sliced onion and ginger. Sear until both are slightly charred for maximum aroma and depth.
5 minutes
Charring enhances the broth's complexity—don’t skip this step.
- 2
Prepare the broth: In a large pot, add vegetable broth, charred onion, ginger, star anise, cinnamon, and cloves. Add carrots and daikon. Simmer gently for 15 minutes to infuse flavors.
15 minutes
Keep the broth at a gentle simmer, not a hard boil, for clarity.
- 3
Meanwhile, cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
5 minutes
Do not overcook noodles—they should be tender yet chewy.
- 4
Pan-fry the tofu cubes in a non-stick skillet until golden on all sides.
5 minutes
Crispy tofu adds satisfying texture.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Vegetarian Pho recipe is naturally low in calories and saturated fat, making it ideal for weight management and cardiovascular health. With its high vegetable content, it delivers a variety of micronutrients essential for immunity and vitality. The use of tofu instead of animal protein makes it suitable for vegetarians and those reducing meat intake. The absence of added sugars and minimal oil use further enhance its health profile, ensuring a clean, nourishing meal.
Vegetarian Pho is loaded with nutrient-dense vegetables, fresh herbs, and tofu, providing a good mix of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as plant-based protein. The rice noodles offer complex carbohydrates for energy, while the tofu supplies essential amino acids and calcium. The clear, spice-infused broth is low in fat and free from cholesterol, making this dish a heart-healthy choice. Fresh herbs add antioxidants and dietary fiber, supporting digestion and overall wellness.
Pro Tips
- 💡Roast spices briefly before adding to broth for extra aroma.
- 💡Use a mix of herbs—Thai basil, mint, and cilantro—for authentic flavor.
- 💡Prepare broth ahead and let it sit overnight to deepen the taste.
Storage & Serving
Store broth, noodles, and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Broth keeps up to 3 days; reheat gently. Assemble just before eating for best texture and flavor.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 350.0 kcal |
