Irresistible Vegan Pho: Homemade Broth that Packs Umami Punch

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

The moment I lifted the lid to my bubbling pot of vegan pho, a wave of fragrant steam enveloped me like a warm hug. The rich scent of roasting ginger and herbs danced through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to the bustling streets of Vietnam where this beloved dish originated. I was on a quest for a comforting meal that didn t compromise on flavor or my plant-based lifestyle, and this recipe became my ultimate reward.

Whipping up this vegan pho with homemade broth is not just about nourishing my body; it s about embracing the joy of cooking and creating something spectacular from simple ingredients. With umami-packed flavors and a vibrant mix of fresh herbs and veggies, every bowl transforms the everyday dining experience into a comforting ritual. In just one hour, you ll indulge in a heartwarming vegan feast that will delight both pho enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Let me show you how easy it is to craft this soul-soothing dish!

Why is Vegan Pho a must-try?

Delicious Flavor Explosion: The homemade broth is rich with umami, thanks to the perfect blend of spices and roasted vegetables.
Quick to Prepare: In just one hour, you can serve a comforting bowl of vegan pho that tastes like it simmered all day.
Customizable Goodness: Add your favorite veggies or alter toppings to suit your taste make it your own!
Wholesome Ingredients: Every spoonful is packed with nutritious ingredients, keeping your health in mind without sacrificing flavor.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this vegan pho dazzles anyone at the table.

Vegan Pho Ingredients

Everything you need to create a delightful bowl!

For the Broth

• Cabbage Forms the broth base, adding depth. Use savoy or napa cabbage for sweetness.
• Yellow Onion Enhances sweetness and aroma in the broth. Shallots can be used for a milder taste.
• Ginger Provides a spicy aroma and authentic flavor. Fresh ginger is essential for the best taste.
• Shiitake Mushrooms Adds umami and richness to the broth. Other mushrooms like portobello or dried shiitakes can be substituted.
• Celery Enhances the herbal notes and umami flavor. Omit if not available, but flavor may suffer.
• Carrots Adds sweetness and body to the broth. Substitute with sweet potatoes for a different profile.
• Garlic Infuses the broth with a pungent aroma. Shallots can be used instead for subtlety.
• Daikon Contributes a mild radish flavor that enhances the broth complexity. Use turnip if daikon is unavailable.
• Vegetable Broth Serves as the liquid foundation. Homemade or store-bought ensure it s low sodium for better flavor control.
• Water Dilutes the broth to the desired consistency. Best to use filtered water for clean taste.
• Salt Balances flavors in the broth. Adjust according to your palate.
• Soy Sauce Introduces umami and savory depth. Tamari for gluten-free option.
• Granulated Sugar Balances salt and enhances sweetness. Brown sugar or maple syrup can be alternatives.
• Spices (Star Anise, Cinnamon, Fennel, Coriander) Creates the signature Vietnamese aroma. Use whole spices for best flavor extraction.

For the Noodles and Toppings

• Pho Noodles Base of the dish; fresh is highly recommended for texture. Dried noodles can be used but require longer cooking time.
• Fried Tofu Adds protein and texture contrast. Store-bought or homemade; tempeh is a suitable replacement.
• Enoki Mushrooms Optional for added texture. Shiitake or button mushrooms can substitute.
• Green Onions & Cilantro Fresh toppings that enhance flavor and freshness. Basil or chives as alternatives.
• Mint Optional herb for added freshness. Omit if not preferred.
• Bean Sprouts Adds crunch and freshness. Cabbage could work as a substitute.
• Lime Zest and acidity for finishing touches. Lemon can substitute in a pinch.
• Shallot Oil Optional finishing oil for extra flavor depth. Omit if unavailable, though it s recommended.
• Hoisin Sauce & Sriracha For serving; adds sweetness and heat. Adjust according to preference.

How to Make Vegan Pho

1. Preheat your oven to broil at about 550 °F. This step is essential for roasting the vegetables to bring out their natural sweetness and flavor.

2. Broil the cabbage, onion, and ginger on a baking sheet for 10 minutes until they are slightly charred, creating a depth of flavor for the broth.

3. Toast the spices: star anise, cinnamon, fennel, and coriander in a dry pan until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Create a spice pouch using cheesecloth or an infuser for easy removal later.

4. Combine the charred vegetables, toasted spices, shiitake mushrooms, celery, carrots, garlic, daikon, vegetable broth, water, and salt in a large pot. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the ingredients to mingle for a rich broth.

5. Simmer for 10 minutes, then remove the shiitake mushrooms, and continue simmering for another 30 minutes to deepen the flavor.

6. Prepare the pho noodles and toppings while the broth simmers. Fry the tofu in a separate pan until golden and crisp to add a delightful texture.

7. Stir in soy sauce and sugar into the broth; let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes to harmonize all the flavors.

8. Strain the broth using a fine-mesh sieve to discard solids; then assemble your bowls with noodles, the infused broth, and your choice of toppings.

9. Top each bowl with a squeeze of lime juice, a drizzle of shallot oil, and your preferred hoisin sauce and sriracha. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of your homemade vegan pho!

Optional: Add fresh herbs like basil or mint for a delightful garnish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Pho bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the homemade broth up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its rich flavor. Roast the cabbage, onion, and ginger as directed, then let them cool before storing. Additionally, you can pre-cook the pho noodles and fried tofu, keeping them in separate containers for optimal freshness. Just before serving, reheat the broth gently and add the noodles and toppings for a quick assembly. This way, you ll have a comforting bowl of vegan pho ready to enjoy with minimal effort after a busy day!

Vegan Pho Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to make this vegan pho truly your own! Let your creativity shine with these delicious twists.

• Mushroom Medley: Swap shiitake mushrooms for a mix of your favorites like oyster or button mushrooms for unique flavors and textures. Each type brings something special to the broth.

• Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini for a burst of color and nutrition. It s a fun way to sneak in more veggies!

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a deliciously safe option that still packs flavor.

• Heat Levels: Crank up the spice by adding fresh chili slices or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broth. Spice lovers will rejoice with this fiery twist!

• Protein Power: Substitute fried tofu with crispy tempeh or vegan chick n strips for an even heartier meal. Both options add a delightful chew that s sure to satisfy.

• Sweetness Swap: Instead of granulated sugar, try maple syrup or agave nectar for a natural sweetening option. It adds a different layer of flavor that s subtle yet delicious.

• Herb Diversity: Experiment with different herbs, like Thai basil or cilantro, to create a fresh aroma and flavor profile that excites the palate.

• Broth Boost: Enhance your broth with a splash of coconut milk for creaminess and a subtle sweetness, elevating your vegan pho to a new level of indulgence.

Embrace these variations to create a bowl of vegan pho that not only warms your soul but also reflects your unique taste!

What to Serve with Vegan Pho?

The perfect vegan pho deserves delightful companions to create a complete meal that warms the heart and pleases the palate.

• Crispy Spring Rolls: Light and crunchy, these rolls provide a delightful contrast to the warm broth, making every bite a textural delight.

• Herbed Quinoa Salad: A refreshing, protein-packed side that complements the rich flavors of the pho. Add a zesty dressing to elevate the experience.

• Sesame Green Beans: The nutty flavor of sesame oil on sautéed green beans brings a savory balance to the lightness of the pho.

• Chili Garlic Tofu: For those who crave an extra kick, sweet and spicy chili garlic tofu adds a punchy flavor that pairs beautifully with the broth s richness.

• Cucumber Salad: This cool, crunchy dish adds a refreshing contrast, enhancing the overall experience. Dressed with rice vinegar and sesame seeds, it brightens every bite.

• Vietnamese Pickled Vegetables: A tangy, crunchy side that perfectly balances the warmth of the pho, introducing a wonderful sweet-sour element.

• Mango Lassi: For a refreshing drink, a creamy mango lassi is a great accompaniment. Its sweetness complements the savory notes of the soup perfectly.

• Coconut Macaroons: End your meal on a sweet note with chewy coconut macaroons. Their rich texture offers a lovely contrast to the savory pho.

Expert Tips for Making Vegan Pho

• Broth Clarity: Avoid boiling the broth; instead, simmer gently to ensure a clear and flavorful result. Boiling can cloud the broth and affect taste.
• Herb Freshness: Add fresh herbs such as cilantro and green onions just before serving to maintain their vibrant flavors. This boosts the overall umami flavor of your vegan pho.
• Ingredient Prep: Char your vegetables well but don t burn them; this maximizes flavor extraction while avoiding bitterness in your broth.
• Noodle Choice: Opt for fresh pho noodles whenever possible, as they significantly enhance the dish s texture and experience. Dried noodles can be used but will require more cooking time.
• Topping Customization: Personalize your pho with favorite toppings; even simple garnishes can elevate your dish into something special and unique!
• Storing Leftovers: Keep the broth, noodles, and toppings stored separately in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and flavor, allowing you to enjoy your vegan pho for days!

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Pho

Fridge: Store the broth, noodles, and toppings separately in airtight containers. Properly stored, they can last up to 3 days, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to keep your vegan pho longer, freeze the broth in portions for up to 3 months. Divide the noodles and toppings and freeze them separately as well to prevent sogginess.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the broth on the stove until steaming, and boil noodles separately in fresh water for a perfect texture. Assemble your bowls and top with fresh herbs for a delightful meal!

Tip: To preserve that delicious umami flavor of your homemade broth, avoid freezing any toppings that tend to get soggy, like bean sprouts or tofu.

Vegan Pho Recipe FAQs

What type of cabbage is best for vegan pho?
I recommend using savoy or napa cabbage for their natural sweetness, which adds a delightful depth to the broth. These varieties also have a tender texture and will infuse the broth beautifully.

How long can I store leftover vegan pho in the fridge?
When stored properly in airtight containers, the components of your vegan pho broth, noodles, and toppings can last up to 3 days. It s best to keep them separate to maintain their individual freshness and prevent sogginess.

Can I freeze vegan pho, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your vegan pho, start by pouring the cooled broth into airtight containers or freezer bags just remember to leave some space at the top for expansion. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. For the noodles and toppings, I d recommend freezing them separately to avoid any texture issues. When you re ready to enjoy, thaw the broth overnight in the fridge, reheat it on the stove, and prepare the noodles to ensure that delightful texture remains.

Why is my broth cloudy, and how can I fix it?
Great question! A cloudy broth often results from boiling instead of simmering. To achieve clarity, keep the broth at a gentle simmer during cooking. If your broth turns out cloudy, one trick is to strain it through a fine-mesh sieve, which will help filter out leftover solids and improve the appearance.

Are there any toppings I should avoid if I have allergies?
Yes, be cautious with toppings! Common allergens in vegan pho might include soy (found in soy sauce), gluten (if not using tamari), and specific mushrooms. If you re making this for someone with allergies, I recommend sticking to basic toppings like fresh herbs, lime, and bean sprouts while checking ingredient labels for all sauces and prepped items.

Can I customize my pho with different vegetables?
Very much so! One of the joys of vegan pho is its versatility. You can easily add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a nutrition boost or swap out shiitake mushrooms for mixed varieties. Just keep in mind that some vegetables may alter the cooking time! Enjoy experimenting!