How to Make Vietnamese Vegan Pho
Vietnamese vegan pho is a delicious and fragrant dish that captures the essence of traditional Vietnamese cuisine while accommodating a plant-based lifestyle. This recipe highlights the harmonious balance of flavors, showcasing fresh herbs and spices. Follow this guide to create a hearty bowl of vegan pho at home.
Ingredients
To make vegan pho, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- 1 piece of ginger (about 3 inches), sliced
- 3-4 star anise pods
- 3-4 whole cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 package of rice noodles (about 14 oz)
- 1 block of firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, mint)
- Lime wedges
- Bean sprouts
- Chili slices (optional)
- Green onions, chopped
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your vegan pho:
1. Prepare the Broth
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the quartered onion and sliced ginger, sautéing until they are charred. This will enhance the flavor of your broth.
Add the vegetable broth to the pot, and then toss in the star anise, cloves, cinnamon stick, and coriander seeds. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 30-40 minutes. Afterward, strain the broth to remove the solids and return the liquid to the pot. Stir in the soy sauce or tamari for added depth of flavor.
2. Cook the Rice Noodles
While your broth simmers, prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves soaking them in hot water until softened, then draining and setting aside.
3. Sauté the Tofu
In a separate skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the cubed tofu and sauté until golden and crispy on all sides. This will give your pho a wonderful texture.
4. Assemble the Pho
Once your broth is ready, portion the cooked rice noodles into bowls. Top with sautéed tofu, then ladle hot broth over the noodles and tofu. Garnish with plenty of fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, and mint), bean sprouts, chopped green onions, and chili slices if desired.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your vegan pho hot, accompanied by lime wedges for squeezing over, allowing each person to customize their bowl to their taste. Enjoy the rich aromas and flavors of this comforting dish.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Pho
- Experiment with spices: Adjust the spices to your preference, adding more star anise or cinnamon for an even more aromatic broth.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables will elevate the dish and provide vibrant flavors.
- Make it a meal prep option: The broth can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for quick meals throughout the week.
Making Vietnamese vegan pho at home is not only satisfying but also a delightful culinary adventure. With these simple steps and fresh ingredients, you can enjoy this classic dish in a plant-based way. Get ready to savor every spoonful of your homemade vegan pho!