A beginner-friendly version of the classic Vietnamese noodle soup
Pho (pronounced “fuh”) is famous for its rich broth, soft noodles, and fresh toppings. Traditional pho can take hours to make, but this version gives you amazing flavor in a much shorter time — perfect for a weeknight dinner or a warm comfort meal.
🥣 Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 3–4)
For the Broth:
6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, crushed
1 piece ginger (1–2 inches), sliced
1 cinnamon stick
2 star anise (optional but great)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt, to taste
For the Bowls:
8 oz rice noodles
Thinly sliced cooked chicken, tofu, or beef
1 cup bean sprouts
Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, or mint)
Lime wedges
Sliced green onion
Sliced jalapeño (optional)
Optional Flavor Boost:
A small dash of hoisin
A small dash of sriracha
🔥 Instructions
1. Make the Quick Pho Broth
In a pot, add:
Broth
Onion
Garlic
Ginger
Cinnamon stick
Star anise
Simmer on medium-low for 20–25 minutes.
This step infuses the broth with that classic pho aroma.
Remove the onion, garlic, ginger, and spices before serving.
Season with:
Soy sauce
Sugar
Salt to taste
2. Cook the Noodles
Prepare the rice noodles according to the package.
Usually, they soften in hot (not boiling) water for about 5 minutes.
Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Fillings
Pho is all about layering.
You can use:
Leftover chicken
Tofu cubes
Thin slices of cooked beef
Extra veggies
Place them into the bottom of each bowl.
4. Assemble Your Pho Bowl
Add noodles to each bowl.
Pour the hot broth over the top — the heat warms the toppings.
Finish with:
Bean sprouts
Fresh herbs
Lime juice
Green onion
If you want extra flavor, add a tiny bit of hoisin or sriracha.
⭐ Tips to Make Your Pho Super Delicious
Toast the spices (cinnamon, star anise) for 30 seconds in the pot before adding broth — it boosts the flavor.
Add more herbs if you love freshness.
Cook noodles separately so they don’t get mushy in the broth.
Keep toppings simple if you’re in a hurry — noodles + broth + herbs still taste amazing.
Use vegetable broth for a tasty vegetarian pho.
🍜 Pho Variations You’ll Love
Chicken Pho (Pho Ga)
Use chicken broth + cooked chicken breast.
Veggie Pho
Add mushrooms, bok choy, carrots, or tofu.
Beef Pho (Quick Version)
Use thinly sliced cooked beef and pour VERY hot broth on top so it softens.