Easy Vietnamese Pho Recipe

Table of Contents

The Vietnamese Pho Recipe is a dish that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. The recipe combines thin rice noodles with tender chicken and fragrant lemongrass, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The lemongrass infuses the dish with a subtle citrusy aroma and a refreshing taste.

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25 Easy Vietnamese Recipes

One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it to your liking by adding different vegetables like bean sprouts, carrots, or bell peppers. The dish can also be made vegetarian or vegan by substituting the chicken with tofu or mushrooms. This flexibility allows you to cater to various dietary preferences and create a personalized culinary experience.

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Apart from its delicious taste, Vietnamese Pho Recipe offers potential health benefits. Lemongrass is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also a rich source of antioxidants, which help protect the body against free radicals. Additionally, the dish includes an array of vegetables, which contribute essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber to support a balanced diet.

The Vietnamese Pho Recipe is a delightful culinary creation that showcases the flavors of Vietnam. Its versatility allows for creative adaptations, making it suitable for different palates and dietary needs. Along with its enticing taste, this dish offers potential health benefits from the lemongrass and the inclusion of nutritious vegetables. Give this recipe a try to savor the vibrant and nourishing essence of Vietnamese cuisine.

How To Make Our the Vietnamese Pho Recipe

Ingredients (8 Servings)

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 ounces dried rice noodles
2 stalks lemongrass
1 onion
4 cloves garlic
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 lime
Fresh herbs for garnish (such as cilantro, Thai basil, or mint
Bean sprouts, sliced cucumber, and lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Gather the Ingredients:

2. Prepare the Chicken and Noodles:
a. Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and slice them into thin strips.
b. Soak the dried rice noodles in warm water for about 20 minutes until they are soft and pliable. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Lemongrass:

a. Remove the tough outer layers of the lemongrass stalks.
b. Cut off the root end and the upper green part, leaving about 6 inches of the tender white and light green stalk.
c. Smash the lemongrass stalks with the back of a knife to release the flavors.

4. Chop the Onion and Garlic:

a. Peel and chop the onion and garlic cloves. Set aside.

5. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:

a. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot or wok over medium heat.
b. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.

6. Cook the Chicken:

a. Add the sliced chicken to the pot and stir-fry until it is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

7. Prepare the Broth:

a. Pour in the chicken broth and water.
b. Add the smashed lemongrass stalks.
c. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

8. Make the Sauce:

a. In a small bowl, combine fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper.
b. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.

9. Flavor the Broth:

a. Remove the lemongrass stalks from the pot and discard them.
b. Add the prepared sauce to the broth and stir well to incorporate the flavors.
c. Squeeze the juice of one lime into the broth and give it a final stir.

10. Assemble and Serve:

a. Divide the softened rice noodles among bowls.
b. Ladle the hot broth with chicken over the noodles.
c. Garnish each bowl with fresh herbs, such as cilantro, Thai basil, or mint.
d. Add bean sprouts and sliced cucumber for extra freshness.
e. Serve with lime wedges on the side for individual seasoning preferences.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Pots, Pan and Cooking Equipment Needed for the Vietnamese Pho Recipe

1: Large pot: Used for cooking the broth and noodles.
2: Wok or large skillet: Used for sautéing the chicken and aromatics.
3: Cutting board and knife: Used for preparing the ingredients.
4: Small bowl: Used for combining the sauce ingredients.
5: Ladle: Used for serving the broth and chicken.
6: Tongs or slotted spoon: Used for handling the chicken and noodles.
7: Serving bowls and utensils: Used for serving the dish.

Best Way to Store Leftovers From the the Vietnamese Pho Recipe

a. Allow the broth and chicken to cool to room temperature.
b. Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.
c. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
d. Reheat in a pot or microwave until heated through before serving.
e. Discard any leftovers that have been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Tips and Tricks For Easier Creation

a. Prep all the ingredients before starting to cook for smoother cooking process.
b. Soak the rice noodles in warm water while preparing other components to save time.
c. Use a sharp knife to slice the chicken thinly for quicker cooking.
d. Remove the lemongrass stalks before serving to avoid chewing on tough fibers.
e. Adjust the seasoning according to personal preference for a tailored flavor.
f. Add extra vegetables or herbs for added freshness and nutrition.

Side Dishes and Desserts For the the Vietnamese Pho Recipe

a. Fresh spring rolls with dipping sauce.
b. Vietnamese cucumber salad.
c. Stir-fried vegetables with garlic and soy sauce.
d. Crispy egg rolls with sweet and sour sauce.
e. Vietnamese papaya salad.
f. Steamed jasmine rice.
g. Vietnamese iced coffee.

How To Serve the Vietnamese Pho Recipe

a. Divide the softened rice noodles among serving bowls.
b. Ladle the hot broth with chicken over the noodles.
c. Garnish each bowl with fresh herbs, such as cilantro, Thai basil, or mint.
d. Add bean sprouts and sliced cucumber for extra freshness.
e. Serve with lime wedges on the side for individual seasoning preferences.
f. Serve with any desired side dishes.
g. Enjoy your flavorful and nourishing Vietnamese Pho!

Substitutions For the Vietnamese Pho Recipe

1. Vegan Option:

a. Substitute the chicken breasts with tofu or tempeh.
b. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
c. Replace fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari for umami flavor.
d. Omit the sugar or use a vegan sweetener like maple syrup.
e. Use a plant-based oil, such as olive oil, instead of vegetable oil.
f. Add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli.
g. Top with chopped peanuts or cashews for added texture and flavor.

2. Gluten-Free Option: For the Vietnamese Pho Recipe

a. Use gluten-free rice noodles instead of regular rice noodles with the Vietnamese Pho Recipe.
b. Ensure all sauces and condiments used are gluten-free and certified.
c. Check the labels of chicken broth and seasonings for gluten-free certification.
d. Substitute soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.
e. Use a gluten-free sweetener like maple syrup or coconut sugar.
f. Verify that all spices and herbs used are gluten-free.
g. Serve with gluten-free side dishes or accompaniments.

3. Vegetarian Option:

a. Replace the chicken breasts with meat alternatives like tofu, tempeh, or seitan.
b. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
c. Substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or vegetarian oyster sauce.
d. Omit the sugar or use a vegetarian-friendly sweetener like agave nectar.
e. Add more vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini.
f. Include vegetarian-friendly toppings like fried shallots or crushed peanuts.
g. Serve with vegetarian-friendly side dishes or accompaniments.

4. Mediterranean Diet Options: For the Vietnamese Pho Recipe

a. Use extra virgin olive oil instead of vegetable oil.
b. Incorporate Mediterranean herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary.
c. Add Kalamata olives or sundried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
d. Serve with a side of Greek salad or tabbouleh with the Vietnamese Pho Recipe.
e. Use whole wheat or gluten-free couscous instead of rice noodles.
f. Top with crumbled feta cheese for added flavor.
g. Garnish with fresh lemon zest or lemon wedges.

5. Keto Diet Options:

a. Replace rice noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.
b. Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a lower-carb option.
c. Choose low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, cauliflower, or spinach.
d. Increase the amount of healthy fats by using more coconut oil or avocado oil.
e. Include keto-friendly toppings like sliced avocado or chopped almonds.
f. Season with keto-approved spices and herbs like turmeric or cayenne pepper.
g. Serve with a side of cauliflower rice or sautéed kale.

6. Heart Healthy Diet Options: For the Vietnamese Pho Recipe

a. Opt for skinless chicken breasts to reduce saturated fat.
b. Use low-sodium chicken broth to control sodium intake.
c. Substitute fish sauce with low-sodium soy sauce in the Vietnamese Pho Recipe.
d. Reduce or omit added sugar for a lower-sugar option.
e. Include heart-healthy vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or kale.
f. Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor instead of excessive salt.
g. Serve with a side of quinoa or whole grain rice for added fiber.

7. Paleo Options:

a. Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a paleo-friendly option.
b. Replace rice noodles with spiralized sweet potato or butternut squash.
c. Choose high-quality organic chicken breasts for a paleo protein source.
d. Season with paleo-approved herbs and spices like garlic, paprika, or cumin.
e. Top with paleo-friendly garnishes like sliced avocado or chopped almonds.
f. Use coconut oil or ghee instead of vegetable oil for cooking.
g. Serve with a side of roasted root vegetables or cauliflower rice.

8. Low Carb Options: For the Vietnamese Pho Recipe

a. Replace rice noodles with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
b. Use low-carb sweeteners like stevia or erythritol instead of sugar.
c. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce or tamari to control sodium intake.
d. Choose lean chicken breasts or turkey breast for lower fat content.
e. Include low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or asparagus.
f. Top with sliced almonds or chopped macadamia nuts for added crunch.
g. Serve with a side of sautéed greens or cauliflower rice with the Vietnamese Pho Recipe.

9. Whole30 Options:

a. Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a Whole30-compliant option.
b. Replace rice noodles with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
c. Choose sugar-free fish sauce or make a homemade compliant version.
d. Use compliant cooking oils like avocado oil or ghee.
e. Season with Whole30-approved herbs and spices like garlic, turmeric, or thyme.
f. Top with fresh herbs and citrus zest for added flavor.
g. Serve with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or cauliflower rice.

10. Weight Watchers Options: For the Vietnamese Pho Recipe

a. Use skinless chicken breasts for a leaner protein option.
b. Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control sodium content.
c. Opt for reduced-sodium soy sauce or tamari with the Vietnamese Pho Recipe.
d. Reduce or omit added sugar to lower Smart Points.
e. Include zero-point vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
f. Use cooking spray instead of oil to minimize added points.
g. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or mixed greens.

11. Low Fat Options:

a. Use skinless chicken breasts to reduce fat content.
b. Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control sodium intake.
c. Opt for low-fat cooking methods like grilling or baking.
d. Replace regular soy sauce with low-sodium soy sauce for the Vietnamese Pho Recipe.
e. Reduce or omit added sugar for a lower-fat and lower-calorie option.
f. Include low-fat vegetables like green beans, snow peas, or bok choy.
g. Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or cabbage.

12. Vegetable Variations: For the Vietnamese Pho Recipe

a. Use spiralized carrots or daikon radish instead of rice noodles.
b. Include a variety of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas.
c. Roast vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for added texture.
d. Stir-fry vegetables separately and serve as a side dish or mix them into the noodles.
e. Add thinly sliced cabbage or bok choy for extra crunch.
f. Incorporate Asian greens like gai lan or baby bok choy for a distinct flavor.
g. Include fresh herbs like cilantro, Thai basil, or mint to enhance the vegetable medley.

FAQ About the Vietnamese Pho Recipe

How do I make the Vietnamese Pho Recipe?
To make the Vietnamese Pho Recipe, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, dried rice noodles, lemongrass, onion, garlic, vegetable oil, chicken broth, water, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, black pepper, lime, fresh herbs, bean sprouts, cucumber, and lime wedges. Follow the provided cooking instructions to create this flavorful dish.

Can I make a vegetarian version of the Vietnamese Pho Recipe?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of the Vietnamese Pho Recipe. Substitute the chicken breasts with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adjust the seasoning and garnishes accordingly for a delightful vegetarian option.

Are there any gluten-free alternatives for the Vietnamese Pho Recipe?
Absolutely! You can make the Vietnamese Pho Recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free rice noodles, ensuring all sauces and condiments are gluten-free, and verifying that the chicken broth and seasonings are gluten-free certified. Make sure to follow the gluten-free options provided in the cooking instructions.

Can I store leftovers of the Vietnamese Pho Recipe?
Yes, you can store leftovers of the Vietnamese Pho Recipe. Allow the broth and chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat before serving.

What are some suitable side dishes to serve with the Vietnamese Pho Recipe?
There are several side dishes that pair well with the Vietnamese Pho Recipe. Consider serving it with fresh spring rolls, Vietnamese cucumber salad, stir-fried vegetables, crispy egg rolls, Vietnamese papaya salad, steamed jasmine rice, or Vietnamese iced coffee for a complete and satisfying meal experience.

Final Thoughts

The Vietnamese Pho Recipe is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic lemongrass, and delicate rice noodles. The recipe offers a versatile option, allowing for adaptations to different dietary preferences such as vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan. With a balanced blend of herbs and spices, it provides a satisfying taste experience. The dish is not only delicious but also offers potential health benefits, thanks to the lean protein from the chicken and the inclusion of nutrient-rich herbs and vegetables. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed by many while providing a nourishing meal option.