Authentic Shrimp Pho Recipe

Name: Authentic Shrimp Pho Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Ingredients: 1 large onion (halved); 5 cm piece ginger (sliced); 3 star anise pods; 1 cinnamon stick; 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium); 2 tbsp fish sauce; 1 tbsp sugar; 200 g rice noodles (medium or thick); 400 g shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 cup bean sprouts; 1 lime (quartered); 1 handful fresh cilantro (chopped); 1 handful Thai basil (leaves only); 1 red chili (sliced, optional)

80 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Delicious and aromatic shrimp pho, perfect for a cozy dinner. Enjoy rich broth, tender shrimp, and fresh herbs in this classic Vietnamese dish.

Prep

20 min

Cook

60 min

Total

80 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Shrimp pho is a delightful Vietnamese noodle soup that combines a fragrant broth with tender shrimp and fresh herbs. It's a comforting and aromatic dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner. This version of shrimp pho uses a homemade broth that is infused with classic Vietnamese flavours, making it both authentic and satisfying. This recipe works wonderfully for anyone craving the taste of Vietnam in their own home. The combination of shrimp, rice noodles, and fresh herbs creates a perfect balance of flavours and textures. Whether you're a seasoned pho enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this recipe will guide you to a successful and delicious meal.

Instructions

Prepare the aromatics

Place the onion and ginger in a large pot over medium-high heat. Roast until charred, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Charring the onion and ginger adds a smoky depth to the broth.

Build the broth

Add star anise, cinnamon, chicken broth, fish sauce, and sugar to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes.

Pro tip: Simmering the broth longer develops a richer flavour.

Cook the noodles

In a separate pot, cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: Rinse the noodles under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.

Prepare the shrimp

Add shrimp to the simmering broth and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Pro tip: Do not overcook the shrimp to keep them tender.

Assemble the pho

Divide the cooked noodles into bowls. Pour the hot broth and shrimp over the noodles.

Pro tip: Ensure each bowl has an even share of shrimp and broth.

Garnish and serve

Top each bowl with bean sprouts, cilantro, Thai basil, and red chili slices. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Pro tip: Let guests customize their bowls with garnishes to their liking.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh herbs for the best flavour.
Simmer the broth for at least 30 minutes for depth.
Adjust the fish sauce to taste for perfect seasoning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does shrimp pho take to make?

Shrimp pho takes approximately 80 minutes to prepare and cook.

Can I make shrimp pho ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the broth ahead of time and store it for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 3 months.

What is the key ingredient in shrimp pho?

The key ingredients are shrimp, rice noodles, and a well-flavoured aromatic broth.

How many calories are in shrimp pho?

A serving of shrimp pho contains approximately 350 calories.

What can I serve with shrimp pho?

Serve shrimp pho with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and optionally, spring rolls or a light salad.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your shrimp pho hot, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro and Thai basil, a squeeze of lime, and a side of bean sprouts for added crunch. Pair it with a light Vietnamese salad or spring rolls for a complete meal. This dish can be made ahead by preparing the broth in advance and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freezing it for up to 3 months. Simply reheat and add freshly cooked shrimp and noodles when ready to serve.