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Pho Soup Recipe
Yesterday was one of those evenings where backpacks were scattered across the living room, someone had spilled juice on the homework, and dinner was…well, a question mark. That is exactly when this Pho Soup Recipe came to the rescue. This Pho Soup Recipe has been my lifesaver for busy nights when the kids are hangry, the pantry is half-empty, and I need a meal that feels fancy but is actually simple. If you’re looking for a Pho Soup Recipe that is hearty, flavorful, and comforting, you are in the right place.
I am Sarah, a mom who believes some of the best meals are the ones that warm your belly and your soul. This Pho Soup Recipe is rich, aromatic, and endlessly adaptable. It works for a weeknight dinner, a weekend lunch, or even a solo “treat yourself” bowl.

Why You Will Love This Pho Soup Recipe
This Pho Soup Recipe is all about layers of flavor. The broth is simmered with spices and aromatics, the noodles are tender but not mushy, and the fresh herbs and lime bring brightness to every spoonful. If you love Pho Vietnamese Soup, you’ll appreciate how authentic this Pho Soup Recipe tastes without the need for hours in the kitchen.
I love that this Pho Soup Recipe also works for different dietary preferences. Make it a Beef Pho Recipe Easy version for the family, a Vegan Pho Recipe for a plant-based twist, or a Shrimp Pho Recipe when you want something a little special. Even if you are just craving a Quick Pho Recipe, this base recipe delivers. It fits into trending comfort food ideas like Pho Noodles Recipe meals, Filipino Soup Recipes, and even Thai Soup Recipes adaptations.
The Pho Soup Recipe also scores high on presentation. With bright herbs, lime wedges, and tender proteins, it looks like it belongs in a restaurant but comes together in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 8 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 onion, halved
- 3-inch piece of ginger, sliced
- 2 star anise
- 3 cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegan version)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 8 oz rice noodles (Pho Noodles Recipe style)
- 1 lb thinly sliced beef, chicken, or tofu
- Fresh herbs: cilantro, Thai basil, mint
- Bean sprouts, lime wedges, jalapeño slices
- Salt and pepper to taste
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot for broth
- Skillet or separate pot for noodles
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle for serving
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1:
Char the onion and ginger, either in a skillet or under a broiler, until lightly blackened to enhance the Pho Soup Recipe flavor.
Step 2:
Add broth, star anise, cloves, cinnamon, fish sauce, and sugar to a large pot, bring to a gentle simmer for 20–30 minutes to infuse flavors.
Step 3:
Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
Step 4:
Strain the broth if desired, return to pot, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5:
Add protein (beef, chicken, shrimp, or tofu) to the simmering broth for a few minutes until cooked.
Step 6:
Assemble bowls with noodles, pour hot Pho Soup Recipe over top, and garnish with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and jalapeños.
Why This Pho Soup Recipe Works
This Pho Soup Recipe builds flavor layer by layer. Charring the onion and ginger adds depth, the spices create aroma, and the fresh toppings add texture and brightness. You can make a Beef Pho Recipe Authentic, a Vegan Pho Recipe, or even a Shrimp Pho Recipe with minimal adjustments.
It is warming, comforting, and flexible enough for busy nights or weekend dinners. Even if you are following a Quick Pho Recipe approach, the results taste like hours of effort.
What to Serve With
This Pho Soup Recipe pairs beautifully with bread and dips that complement its flavors. Serve with warm Potato Sourdough Bread for soaking up the broth, or a side of creamy Vegan Hummus for extra protein and texture. Both add a satisfying finish without extra fuss.
Mom Style Tips and Shortcuts
- Use pre-sliced meat or tofu for quicker prep.
- Pre-chopped ginger and onion save time.
- For more flavor in a hurry, add a splash of soy sauce or fish sauce to taste.
- Noodles can be cooked ahead and reheated just before serving.
- For a lighter version, use vegetable broth and skip sugar.
FAQ
Can I make this Pho Soup Recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Make the broth ahead and store it in the fridge. Add noodles and protein just before serving.
How do I get the perfect Pho Noodles Recipe texture?
Cook noodles separately and briefly to avoid sogginess. Rinse under cold water, then briefly heat in hot water before serving.
Can I make this Pho Soup Recipe vegan?
Absolutely. Use vegetable broth, tofu, soy sauce instead of fish sauce, and skip animal proteins.
Can I freeze Pho Soup Recipe?
Freeze the broth only. Fresh noodles and protein are best added fresh.
When Comfort Needs a Bowl
Some nights you just need a hug in a bowl. This Pho Soup Recipe is my answer for evenings when the kids are hungry, the pantry is sparse, and I need something warm, flavorful, and easy. It is satisfying, aromatic, and comforting, a small but reliable win on chaotic days.
Pho Soup Recipe
Course: DinnerCuisine: VietnameseDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes30
minutes320
kcal40
minutesThis Pho Soup Recipe is easy, flavorful, and versatile. Perfect for busy moms who want Pho Vietnamese Soup that is comforting, quick, and family-friendly.
Ingredients
8 cups beef or vegetable broth
1 onion, halved
3-inch piece ginger, sliced
2 star anise
3 cloves
1 cinnamon stick
2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegan version)
1 teaspoon sugar
8 oz rice noodles (Pho Noodles Recipe style)
1 lb thinly sliced beef, chicken, shrimp, or tofu
Fresh herbs: cilantro, Thai basil, mint
Bean sprouts, lime wedges, jalapeño slices
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Char the onion and ginger under a broiler or in a skillet until lightly blackened.
- Add broth, star anise, cloves, cinnamon, fish sauce, and sugar to a large pot. Simmer 20–30 minutes to infuse flavors.
- Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
Strain broth if desired, return to pot, season with salt and pepper. - Add protein and cook until done.
Assemble bowls with noodles, pour hot Pho Soup Recipe over top, and garnish with herbs, sprouts, lime, and jalapeños.
Notes
- For a Green Shakshuka twist, stir in spinach or kale.
Noodles can be cooked ahead and reheated.
Broth can be made in advance; add protein and noodles before serving.



