If you're looking for a delicious and healthy meal option, you might want to try Vegan Pho. With only 38 calories in 1/2 packet (108 g), this soup is perfect for those who want to enjoy a hearty meal without the added calories.

Not only is Vegan Pho low in calories, but it also contains several healthy ingredients that provide a range of beneficial nutrients. For instance, it is packed with vegetables and spices that are known to have antioxidant properties, such as ginger and star anise. Additionally, it can be a great way to get your daily dose of fiber and protein if you add some tofu or beans to the recipe.

In this article, we'll explore the basics of Vegan Pho, including its calorie count, ingredients, nutritional value, health benefits, and cooking tips. Whether you're a vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a tasty and nutritious meal, this soup is definitely worth trying.

What is Vegan Pho?

Vegan Pho is a Vietnamese noodle soup that typically contains rice noodles, vegetables, herbs, and spices. It is traditionally made with beef or chicken broth, but the vegan version uses vegetable broth or water instead. The soup is usually topped with bean sprouts, lime wedges, cilantro, and jalapeño peppers, and can be served with tofu or vegan meat substitutes. The key to a good Vegan Pho is the broth, which is simmered for several hours to extract the flavors from the herbs and spices. Common ingredients used in the broth include ginger, star anise, cinnamon, cloves, black cardamom, coriander seeds, and fish sauce (if non-vegan). The soup is then topped with a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs, such as scallions, cilantro, basil, and bean sprouts, to give it an extra crunch and burst of flavor.

Calories of Vegan Pho

The calorie count of Vegan Pho depends on the ingredients and how it is prepared, but on average, one serving (about 1 cup) contains around 50-100 calories. Half a packet (108 g) of Vegan Pho has only 38 calories, making it a great choice for those who are watching their weight or looking for a low-calorie meal option. If you want to keep the calorie count down, stick to the basic ingredients such as rice noodles, vegetable broth, and a few vegetables. Avoid adding too much oil, salt, or heavy sauces, which can quickly increase the calorie count. You can also reduce the portion size or add more water to dilute the soup if you're trying to cut back on calories.

Ingredients of Vegan Pho

The ingredients of Vegan Pho can vary depending on the recipe, but some common ingredients include:

• Rice noodles
• Vegetable broth or water
• Onions and garlic
• Ginger, star anise, cinnamon, cloves, black cardamom, coriander seeds
• Mushrooms, carrots, bok choy, bean sprouts, cilantro, scallions, Thai basil, lime wedges
• Tofu or vegan meat substitutes (optional)

You can customize the soup to your liking by adding or omitting certain ingredients, but the key is to use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Fat and Protein Content

The fat and protein content of Vegan Pho can vary depending on the ingredients and how it is prepared, but on average, one serving contains around 5-10 grams of protein and 1-5 grams of fat. To increase the protein content, you can add tofu, soy curls, or seitan to the soup. These vegan meat substitutes are high in protein and can give the soup a meaty texture and flavor. If you're trying to reduce the fat content, avoid adding too much oil or using full-fat coconut milk, which is often used in some Vegan Pho recipes.

Benefits of Vegan Pho

There are several health benefits of Vegan Pho, including:

• Low in calories and fat
• High in fiber and protein
• Packed with vitamins and minerals
• Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds
• May improve digestion and boost immunity

If you're looking for a nutritious and flavorful meal, Vegan Pho is a great choice. It can help you meet your daily nutrient needs and support your overall health and well-being.

How to Cook Vegan Pho?

Cooking Vegan Pho can be a bit time-consuming, but the result is definitely worth it. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:

• Prepare the broth by simmering the vegetables, herbs, and spices in vegetable broth or water for at least 2-3 hours.
• Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions and set aside.
• Prep the vegetables and herbs by washing and chopping them into bite-sized pieces.
• When the broth is ready, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve and discard the solids. Return the broth to the pot and bring it to a boil.
• Add the cooked rice noodles, tofu or vegan meat substitutes (if using), and vegetables to the pot and simmer for a few minutes until everything is heated through.
• Divide the soup into bowls and top with bean sprouts, cilantro, scallions, and lime wedges.

Feel free to add your own twist to the recipe by experimenting with different herbs and spices or adding your favorite vegetables.

Toppings for Vegan Pho

One of the best things about Vegan Pho is the endless topping options. Here are some popular toppings to try:

• Bean sprouts
• Cilantro
• Scallions
• Thai basil
• Mint leaves
• Lime wedges
• Jalapeño peppers (if you like spice)
• Fried onions or garlic
• Crushed peanuts

You can mix and match the toppings to create your own unique flavor combination. Just be sure to use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best taste.

Vegan Pho Variations

While the classic Vegan Pho recipe is delicious on its own, there are several variations and twists that you can try to spice things up. Here are some ideas:

• Spicy Vegan Pho: Add some sriracha or hot sauce to the broth for extra heat.
• Mushroom Vegan Pho: Use a variety of mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster, to make the broth extra meaty and flavorful.
• Cauliflower Vegan Pho: Replace the rice noodles with cauliflower rice for a low-carb and gluten-free option.
• Curry Vegan Pho: Add some curry powder or curry paste to the broth for a unique and exotic flavor.
• Kimchi Vegan Pho: Top the soup with spicy and tangy kimchi for an extra kick.

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find your perfect Vegan Pho recipe.

Storing Vegan Pho

Vegan Pho can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To store it, transfer the soup to an airtight container and let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. When you're ready to eat the soup, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a bit of water or broth to thin it out if it has thickened in the fridge or freezer.

FAQs on Vegan Pho

Q: Is Vegan Pho gluten-free? A: It can be, depending on the type of noodles you use. Rice noodles are a popular gluten-free option, but some varieties may contain wheat or other grains. Be sure to check the ingredients list carefully before buying.
Q: Can I make Vegan Pho without tofu or meat substitutes?
A: Yes, you can make Vegan Pho without tofu or meat substitutes if you prefer. The soup is still tasty and filling without them.