Pho With Carrots, Turnips, Broccoli, and Tofu
I like this sweet, colorful combination of julienne carrots and turnips with either traditional rice noodles or heartier buckwheat soba. The carrots and turnips can be simmered directly in the stock, as they will contribute to its sweet flavor. The broccoli should be steamed separately.
I like this sweet, colorful combination of julienne carrots and turnips with either traditional rice noodles or heartier buckwheat soba. The carrots and turnips can be simmered directly in the stock, as they will contribute to its sweet flavor. The broccoli should be steamed separately.
- 1 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 recipe vegetarian pho broth (see recipe)
- 1/2 pound firm tofu cut in dominoes (optional)
- soy sauce to taste (optional)
- 12 ounces soba or wide rice noodles
- 1 broccoli stem peeled and cut in 1 1/2-inch julienn steamed for 1 minute
- 1 broccoli crown sliced thin and steamed for 1 minu
- 1 large carrot (about 5 ounces) peeled and cut in 1 1/2-in
- 1 medium turnip peeled and cut in 1 1/2-inch julienne
- 1/2 cup asian or purple basil leaves slivered
- 4 scallions chopped
- 2 to 4 bird or serrano chilies sliced thin or finely chopped (to taste)
- 6 mint sprigs
- 3 to 4 limes cut in wedges
- Carbohydrate 11.43201844 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 6.383126995 g
- Fiber 3.06159616186738 g
- Protein 17.394726765 g
- Saturated Fat 0.9732135111 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (648g)
- Sodium 98.2166266 mg
- Sugar 8.37042227813262 g
- Trans Fat 0.6747096995 g
- Calories 168 calories
Step-by-step
- Have the broth at a simmer in a soup pot.
- Place the tofu in a bowl and season with soy sauce if desired.
- For soba: Bring 3 or 4 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Add the noodles gradually, so that the water remains at a boil, and stir once with a long-handled spoon or pasta fork so that they don't stick together. Wait for the water to come back up to a rolling boil; it will bubble up, so don't fill the pot all the way; and add 1 cup of cold water. Allow the water to come back to a rolling boil and add another cup of cold water. Allow the water to come to a boil one more time and add a third cup of water. When the water comes to a boil again, the noodles should be cooked through. Drain and divide among 6 large soup bowls.
- For rice noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the noodles. Cook until just al dente, firm to the bite, following the timing instructions on the package (my wide noodles take about 5 minutes). Drain and divide among 6 large soup bowls.
- Add the turnips and carrots to the simmering broth and simmer until just tender, about 2 minutes.
- Divide the tofu and the steamed broccoli crowns and stems among the bowls.
- Ladle in the hot broth with carrots and turnips.
- Sprinkle on half the cilantro, half the basil leaves and the green onions.
- Pass the chopped chilies, the mint sprigs and the remaining basil and cilantro for guests to add as desired, and the lime wedges for guests to squeeze on.
- Serve with chopsticks for the noodles and soup spoons for the soup.
My Go-To Comfort Food: A Simple Pho Recipe
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. But I’ve learned that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying. This Pho recipe is a perfect example. It's quick, adaptable, and incredibly flavorful—a perfect weeknight dinner that feels luxurious without the fuss. I love the vibrant colors and the delightful combination of sweet carrots and turnips, which add a wonderful depth of flavor to the broth. Whether I'm craving a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this Pho always hits the spot. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Sometimes I add spinach or mushrooms, depending on the season and my mood. It's always a hit with my family, and the leftovers make for a fantastic lunch the next day.
The key to this recipe is using a good quality broth. I usually start with a simple vegetarian broth, but you could easily adapt it with chicken or beef broth for a richer flavor. The noodles are equally important; I enjoy both the traditional rice noodles and the heartier buckwheat soba noodles. The choice is entirely up to your preference. The vegetables are simply simmered until tender, preserving their vibrant colors and fresh taste. The tofu is optional, but it adds a nice protein boost and a pleasant texture to the soup. And let’s not forget the fresh herbs! Cilantro, basil, mint—all these contribute to the bright and refreshing aroma and flavor of the dish. The overall preparation takes approximately 30 minutes, and the taste is beyond delicious. It's a truly satisfying bowl of goodness that never fails to impress.
Beyond the Bowl: Pho and My Life
This recipe isn't just about the food; it's about the moments surrounding it. It's the feeling of warmth on a chilly evening, the aroma filling my kitchen, the satisfaction of creating a nourishing meal for my family. It's about slowing down, taking a moment to appreciate the simple pleasures of cooking and sharing a meal together. Sometimes, even in the midst of a busy schedule, a simple bowl of Pho can bring us back to what really matters—family, friends, and good food. The preparation is simple, and the result is breathtaking. It is a balanced meal that doesn't compromise taste, while still being an easy-to-follow recipe for a busy lifestyle. This Pho is my tribute to simple cooking and satisfying meals.
Tips and Variations:
- Broth Customization: Experiment with different broths, such as chicken or beef, for a richer flavor profile.
- Vegetable Variety: Add other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bean sprouts for added nutrients and flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili to your liking for a spicier or milder soup.
- Protein Options: Substitute tofu with other protein sources like shredded chicken, beef, or shrimp.
- Noodle Selection: Choose your preferred noodles – rice noodles, soba noodles, or even egg noodles.
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It's a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit your taste and preferences. Let me know in the comments how it turned out for you!
