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Tofu Pho served in a bowl with rice noodles, fresh cilantro and lime slices
Rich Vietnamese pho soup with tofu and fresh cilantro

Vegan Tofu Pho (Pho Chay)

Author: Flavelo
Recipes Vegetarian & Vegan Dishes Soups
Vegetarian Pho (Pho Chay) is not just a substitute, but a culinary experience in itself. The lack of meat is made up for by the rich, spiced vegetable broth and the texture of fried tofu. Tofu acts like a sponge, absorbing every flavor of the stock. This dish proves that plant-based eating isn't about sacrifice, but exploring new tastes. Light, digestible, and packed with protein.
🕒 Prep Time 15 mins
🍳 Cook Time 30 mins
⌛ Total Time 45 mins
🍽️ Servings 2 servings
🔥 Calories 320 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Vietnamese

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Large pot
  • Skillet (for tofu and spices)
  • Paper towels
  • Strainer

Allergen Information

⚠️ Soy
⚠️ Wheat (in Soy Sauce)

Instructions

1 ✓

Wrap tofu in paper towels and place a weight on it for 10 minutes to remove excess water. Then cut into cubes.

Tip: Pressing is crucial so the tofu fries up crispy instead of steaming.
2 ✓

Heat oil in a skillet and fry tofu cubes on all sides until golden brown. Set aside.

Tip: Don't move them constantly; let a crust form.
3 ✓

Halve the onion and ginger. In the same skillet (remove excess oil), char the cut sides until black.

Tip: Charring gives the 'Pho' character.
4 ✓

Pour broth into a pot, add charred onion, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and soy sauce. Simmer for 25 minutes.

Tip: Make the broth slightly saltier than you think, as the noodles and tofu are unsalted.
5 ✓

Prepare rice noodles according to package.

Tip: Do not overcook!
6 ✓

Strain the broth. Serve noodles topped with crispy tofu, and ladle hot soup over them.

Tip: The hot broth warms the tofu through.
7 ✓

Squeeze lime juice on top and garnish with plenty of cilantro.

Tip: A drizzle of Sriracha goes very well with this.

Recipe FAQ

Which tofu should I buy?
Choose Firm or Extra Firm tofu; silken will fall apart. Smoked tofu adds extra flavor!
How do I get crispy tofu?
Press the water out with paper towels before frying, and cook in hot oil until golden brown.

Ingredients

  • 7 oz Wide Rice Noodles
  • 7 oz Firm Tofu
  • 1 medium Onion
  • 2 inch Fresh Ginger
  • 1 stick Cinnamon
  • 3 whole Cloves
  • 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
  • 4 cups Vegetable Broth
  • 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro
  • 1 whole Lime
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil (for frying)