Easy Vegan Pho Recipe for a Flavorful Homemade Meal

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of pho to warm your soul and excite your taste buds. Traditionally a Vietnamese dish featuring rich beef broth, rice noodles, and fresh herbs, pho can easily be transformed into a vibrant, plant-based delight that anyone can enjoy.

This easy vegan pho recipe offers all the comforting flavors of the classic, but with wholesome vegetables and aromatic spices that come together in a fragrant broth. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to try something new and nourishing, this recipe delivers a satisfying and hearty soup perfect for any season.

In this recipe, you’ll learn how to build a flavorful broth from scratch using simple ingredients, and assemble your pho with fresh garnishes that add brightness and texture. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, homemade meal without any complicated steps or hard-to-find items.

Plus, it’s great for meal prep and can be customized to your liking. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of vegan pho!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan pho recipe captures the essence of traditional pho with a fraction of the effort and none of the animal products. Here’s why it stands out:

• Rich, aromatic broth: Made by simmering vegetables and spices like star anise and cinnamon, it’s a complex flavor base that’s deeply satisfying.
• Fresh and customizable toppings: From crisp bean sprouts to fragrant Thai basil, each bite can be tailored to your preferred texture and flavor.
• Simple and approachable: With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, even those new to vegan cooking can succeed.
• Nutritious and light: Loaded with fresh herbs, veggies, and gluten-free rice noodles, it’s a healthy meal that won’t weigh you down.

If you’re interested in other easy vegan meals, be sure to check out my Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals and Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large stockpot for simmering the broth
• Charcoal or gas stove burner for charring onion and ginger (optional, can broil in oven)
• Strainer or fine mesh sieve to strain broth
• Large bowls for serving
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopsticks or soup spoons for eating

Instructions

1. Char the onion and ginger. Place the halved onion and sliced ginger directly over an open flame or under a broiler until they develop a nice char and smoky aroma, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth to the pho broth.
2. Prepare the broth base. In a large stockpot, add the 10 cups of water along with the charred onion, ginger, carrots, celery, star anise, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pod. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer gently uncovered for at least 45 minutes, ideally 1 hour, to allow flavors to meld.
3. Add mushrooms and season. Add the sliced mushrooms to the broth and continue simmering for another 15 minutes. Then stir in the soy sauce or tamari, maple syrup, and salt to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Strain the broth. Remove the pot from heat and carefully strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve into another large pot or bowl, discarding the solids. Keep the broth warm on low heat.
5. Cook the rice noodles. Prepare the rice noodles according to package instructions, usually soaking in hot water until soft (about 5-7 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
6. Prepare tofu and garnishes. Slice the firm tofu into thin strips. Arrange the fresh herbs, bean sprouts, green onions, lime wedges, and chili slices on a platter for self-service topping.
7. Assemble your pho bowls. Divide the noodles between serving bowls, top with tofu slices, and ladle hot broth over the contents. Provide fresh garnishes on the side for everyone to customize their bowls.
8. Enjoy immediately. Pho is best savored hot with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of herbs and sprouts for that authentic, fresh flavor.

Tips & Variations

“For an even richer broth, try roasting the vegetables in the oven before simmering.”

• Vegan “meat” options: Add seitan strips or marinated tempeh for extra protein and texture.
• Broth variations: Incorporate dried shiitake mushrooms or kombu seaweed during simmering for an umami boost.
• Spice level: Adjust the number of chili slices or add sriracha for heat lovers.
• Additional vegetables: Thinly sliced daikon radish or bok choy can be added to the bowls for crunch and nutrition.
• Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure noodles are rice-only.
• Leftover broth: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your vegan pho as a satisfying main meal paired with light, crisp sides to balance the warmth and depth of the soup. Consider serving with:

• Fresh spring rolls with peanut dipping sauce for a refreshing appetizer.
• Pickled vegetables like carrots and daikon to add tang and crunch.
• Steamed greens such as bok choy or kale, lightly dressed with sesame oil.
• Jasmine or brown rice if you want a heartier meal.

For more plant-based inspiration, try the Vegan Cuban Recipes: Delicious Plant-Based Island Flavor or the Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious.

Conclusion

Making vegan pho at home is a rewarding and delicious way to explore the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine without any animal products. This easy vegan pho recipe offers a comforting bowl filled with fragrant broth, tender noodles, and fresh herbs that you can customize to your liking.

It’s perfect for chilly evenings, quick lunches, or whenever you crave something nourishing and flavorful.

Not only is it packed with nutrients and wholesome ingredients, but it also encourages creativity with toppings and variations. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

Remember, pho is all about balance and freshness, so don’t be shy with the herbs and lime!

For more exciting vegan recipes, don’t miss the Vegan Halloween Dessert Recipes That Will Wow Your Guests or the Vegan Bread Maker Recipe for Soft and Delicious Loaves. Happy cooking and bon appétit!

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