If you’ve ever wandered into a Vietnamese restaurant and been greeted by the fragrant, steaming bowl of pho, you know there’s something magical about it. Pho is not just a soup-it’s an experience. The aroma alone can transport you to bustling streets of Hanoi or Saigon, where vendors serve steaming bowls of noodles topped with fresh herbs, meat, and a broth so rich and layered, it seems impossible to replicate at home.
Today, we’re diving into a delicious twist on the classic: Shrimp Pho Soup. This version is lighter than the traditional beef pho, yet it’s just as aromatic and soul-satisfying. The sweet, tender shrimp paired with the depth of aromatic spices creates a flavor profile that is delicate yet incredibly vibrant. And the best part? Making pho at home isn’t as intimidating as it sounds. With a bit of patience and the right ingredients, you can enjoy restaurant-quality pho from the comfort of your kitchen.
Shrimp Pho Soup Recipe
This shrimp pho recipe is designed to balance authenticity with approachability. It features a clear, aromatic broth that allows the shrimp and fresh herbs to shine, while the noodles soak up all the delicious flavors. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe promises a bowlful of comfort, warmth, and satisfaction.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful soup:
For The Broth
- 6 cups of water or low-sodium chicken stock (for a richer flavor)
- 1 small onion, halved
- 3-inch piece of ginger, sliced in half lengthwise
- 2 cloves of garlic, smashed
- 2 star anise pods
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances the flavors)
For The Soup
- 1 pound of medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 ounces of rice noodles (pho noodles or any thin rice noodles)
- Fresh herbs for garnish: cilantro, Thai basil, mint
- Bean sprouts
- Lime wedges
- Thinly sliced red chili (optional for heat)
- Green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves
Optional Condiments
- Hoisin sauce
- Sriracha or chili paste
- Fish sauce
Cooking Instructions
-
Char The Aromatics
- Place the onion and ginger on a baking sheet or directly on a gas flame. Char until slightly blackened; this adds depth and sweetness to the broth.
-
Prepare The Broth
- In a large pot, combine water or stock with the charred onion, ginger, garlic, star anise, cinnamon, cloves, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it simmer gently for 30-45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
-
Season The Broth
- Strain the broth to remove solids.
- Stir in fish sauce and sugar, tasting and adjusting as necessary.
-
Cook The Noodles
- Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
-
Prepare The Shrimp
- Lightly poach the shrimp in the simmering broth until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.
-
Assemble The Pho
- Place noodles in serving bowls.
- Arrange the shrimp on top.
- Pour the hot broth over the noodles and shrimp.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, sliced chilies, and green onions.
-
Serve And Enjoy
- Offer hoisin sauce, sriracha, or extra fish sauce on the side for added customization.
Ingredient Insights
- Shrimp: Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Medium shrimp work perfectly because they cook quickly and evenly.
- Rice Noodles: Soaking rice noodles in warm water before boiling can prevent clumping and give a more delicate texture.
- Aromatics (Onion & Ginger): Charring these ingredients is a game-changer; it adds smoky sweetness and complexity to your broth.
- Spices: Star anise, cloves, cinnamon, coriander, and fennel seeds create that signature pho aroma. Toasting them lightly before adding to the broth can intensify their fragrance.
- Fish Sauce: A cornerstone of Vietnamese cooking, it adds umami and depth. Taste the broth as you go; a little goes a long way.
Expert Tips
- Make Ahead: Pho broth tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Prepare the broth in advance and store it in the fridge.
- Skim for Clarity: Skim off foam or impurities while simmering to achieve a crystal-clear broth.
- Customize Fresh Herbs: Basil, mint, and cilantro are classics, but adding a few fresh Thai chilis or lime leaves can elevate the flavor.
- Temperature Matters: Pour boiling hot broth directly over the noodles and shrimp to ensure everything stays warm and the shrimp cook perfectly.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Shrimp Pho: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili oil to the broth for heat.
- Vegetable Pho: Substitute shrimp with tofu or a mix of mushrooms and add extra vegetables like bok choy or carrots.
- Coconut Shrimp Pho: Add ½ cup of coconut milk to the broth for a slightly creamy, tropical twist.
- Quick Pho: Use pre-made pho broth or stock cubes for a time-saving version without sacrificing too much flavor.
Final Words
Shrimp pho soup is more than just a recipe-it’s a labor of love, a sensory journey, and a comforting meal all rolled into one steaming bowl. Each sip of the fragrant broth, every bite of tender shrimp, and the crunch of fresh herbs creates a harmony of flavors that feels both exotic and homey.
Taking the time to craft your own pho at home allows you to adjust flavors to your liking and explore variations that reflect your personal taste. It’s satisfying, nourishing, and surprisingly meditative to make.
FAQs
What Is Shrimp Pho Soup?
Shrimp pho soup is a Vietnamese noodle soup made with a clear, flavorful broth, rice noodles, shrimp, and various fresh herbs and vegetables. It is a variation of the traditional pho, which is typically made with beef or chicken, and is known for its aromatic, herbaceous flavor.
How Do You Make Shrimp Pho Broth?
To make shrimp pho broth, you simmer shrimp shells with aromatics like onion, ginger, garlic, star anise, cinnamon, and cloves in water for 30-45 minutes. You then strain the broth, add fish sauce, sugar, and salt to taste, and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes to develop its full flavor.
Can I Use Store-bought Broth For Shrimp Pho?
Yes, you can use store-bought broth to save time, but homemade broth will give you a richer and more authentic flavor. If using store-bought broth, you can enhance the flavor by adding fish sauce, star anise, cinnamon, and other aromatics during simmering.
What Kind Of Shrimp Is Best For Pho Soup?
The best shrimp for pho soup are large, fresh shrimp with their shells on. The shells contribute to the flavor of the broth. You can also use peeled shrimp if preferred, but be sure to add shrimp shells during the broth-making process for extra flavor.
How Long Should Shrimp Be Cooked In Pho?
Shrimp should be cooked quickly in pho. Once the broth is prepared and the soup is assembled with noodles, you can add the shrimp to the hot broth for about 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
What Herbs And Garnishes Are Typically Used In Shrimp Pho?
Common herbs and garnishes for shrimp pho include fresh cilantro, Thai basil, bean sprouts, lime wedges, sliced chili peppers, and hoisin sauce. These garnishes add freshness, heat, and a burst of flavor to the dish.
What Kind Of Noodles Are Used In Shrimp Pho?
Shrimp pho uses thin, flat rice noodles (bánh phở). These noodles are soft and delicate, absorbing the broth’s flavor while maintaining their texture when served in the soup.
Can I Make Shrimp Pho Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of shrimp pho by substituting the shrimp with tofu or vegetables like mushrooms. Use a vegetable-based broth, and season it with the same herbs and spices to maintain the pho’s flavor profile.
How Can I Adjust The Spiciness Of Shrimp Pho?
To adjust the spiciness, you can add sliced fresh chili peppers to the broth or serve them as a garnish. You can also add chili paste or Sriracha to the soup, depending on your desired level of heat.
How Do I Store And Reheat Leftover Shrimp Pho?
To store leftover shrimp pho, separate the broth, noodles, and shrimp into different containers. Refrigerate the components for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, bring the broth to a simmer, add fresh noodles, and reheat the shrimp briefly to avoid overcooking.