The Best Vegan Pho Recipes from Vietnam

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and fresh ingredients, and one of its most beloved dishes is pho. Traditionally made with beef or chicken, this iconic noodle soup can also be deliciously vegan. Here, we explore some of the best vegan pho recipes that capture the essence of this comforting dish while staying plant-based.

1. Classic Vegan Pho

This recipe stays true to the traditional pho while omitting animal products. Use vegetable broth as the base and infuse it with aromatic spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves.

• Ingredients:
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, halved
  • 1 piece of ginger (2-inch), sliced
  • 2 star anise
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • Rice noodles
  • Tofu, sautéed or fried
  • Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro)
  • Lime wedges
  • Bean sprouts

Instructions: In a large pot, char the onion and ginger until browned, then add the vegetable broth and spices. Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. Strain the broth and return it to the pot. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions and assemble your pho with tofu, fresh herbs, and lime juice for an authentic flavor.

2. Spicy Vegan Pho

If you love a kick of heat, this spicy vegan pho recipe is perfect for you. Utilizing fresh chili peppers and Sriracha adds heat without sacrificing the comforting nature of pho.

• Ingredients:
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1-2 red chili peppers, sliced
  • 2 star anise
  • 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce
  • Rice noodles
  • Sautéed mushrooms
  • Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro)
  • Sliced jalapeños

Instructions: Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant, then add the vegetable broth, star anise, and sliced chili peppers. Let it simmer and infuse flavors. Once ready, serve with noodles, sautéed mushrooms, and toppings of your choice, including jalapeños for that extra heat.

3. Coconut Curry Vegan Pho

This innovative twist on traditional pho incorporates coconut milk and curry paste, bringing a unique and creamy flavor profile to the dish.

• Ingredients:
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp red curry paste
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 cup of diced vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, etc.)
  • Rice noodles
  • Fresh basil and cilantro
  • Lime juice

Instructions: In a pot, sauté the onion and diced vegetables until tender. Add the curry paste and stir until fragrant. Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk, and let it simmer. Cook the rice noodles separately and combine everything in a bowl, topped with fresh herbs and a splash of lime juice.

4. Lemongrass and Ginger Vegan Pho

This refreshing vegan pho recipe highlights the bright flavors of lemongrass and ginger, making it an invigorating dish that’s perfect for any time of the year.

• Ingredients:
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and cut into sections
  • 1 piece of ginger (2-inch), sliced
  • Rice noodles
  • Tofu or seitan
  • Fresh herbs (basil, mint)
  • Sliced green onions