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shrimp pho

Shrimp Pho

This 30-minute shrimp pho recipe takes shortcuts without compromising that distinctive pho flavor. It's healthy, satisfying AF, and so quick and easy to put together.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Vietnamese
Servings 2
Calories 432 kcal

Ingredients
  

Toasted Spices

  • 1 star anise
  • 1 tsp coriander seeds
  • ½ cinnamon stick

Roasted Aromatics

  • 2 shallots
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 2 inch ginger

Pho Broth

  • 4 cups chicken stock (850mL or 1.5 pints)
  • 1.5 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • ½ tsp salt

Pho Ingredients

  • 165 grams shrimp or prawns
  • 2 cups bean sprouts
  • 2 servings rice noodles

For Garnish

  • lime wedges
  • cilantro
  • Thai basil
  • chili peppers

Instructions
 

  • Add coriander seeds, star anise, and half a cinnamon stick (about 2 inches) to a large pot. Dry toast – without oil – for about 5 minutes until aromatic.
    Remove from pot and set aside.
    shrimp pho
  • Add about a tablespoon of to the same pot and place ginger, garlic, and shallots, cut side down and leave for a minute or two until they’re slightly charred.
    Turn the shallots and let the other sides get some heat.
    shrimp pho
  • Add 4 cups of chicken broth into the pot. Add the toasted spices. Add in the fish sauce, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat and simmer for around 15 minutes.
    shrimp pho
  • While the broth is simmering, it’s time to prepare the rest of the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll be getting ready…
    Noodles: Prepare according to package instructions. Just boil water, stick the noodles in, turn the heat off and let sit for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
    Prawns: I’m using de-veined and peeled raw shrimp. They require no prep and take all of 2 minutes to cook. Add them a minute or two before you turn off the heat.
    Bean sprouts: Wash and drain the bean sprouts. They’ll be added at the end.
    Herbs: Wash and drain whatever herbs you’ll be using – cilantro, Thai basil, mint, and so on.
    Chili peppers: Red or green, if you want a kick. Birds eye, jalapeño – it’s your call.
    Lime slices: Cut lime slices. Set aside.
    Sauces: Get your hoisin and sriracha sauces ready.
    shrimp pho
  • Add the cooked noodles to a bowl, followed by the bean sprouts. Pour the broth in the bowl and top off with shrimp and garnishes. Serve and enjoy!
    shrimp pho

Notes

What if I don't have fish sauce? You can substitute using 50/50 soy sauce (or tamari sauce) and rice vinegar instead. You can also use about a half tablespoon of soy sauce and then make up the rest with salt (to taste). 
What if I don't have any of the spices? If you don't have the spices and you still want a bit of that special pho flavor, you can use about half a teaspoon to a teaspoon of five spice powder instead.