Keto Pho

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: Uses shirataki noodles or spiralized vegetables instead of rice noodles.

• Authentic Flavor: Rich, fragrant broth made with traditional pho spices.

• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein and fresh herbs.

• Customizable: Easily adjust toppings and protein to your liking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound beef brisket, thinly sliced

• 8 cups beef broth

• 1 large onion, halved

• 3-inch piece of ginger, sliced

• 4 whole cloves

• 2 star anise pods

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 1 tablespoon fish sauce

• Salt to taste

• 7 oz shirataki noodles or spiralized zucchini noodles

• Fresh herbs: cilantro, Thai basil, mint

• Bean sprouts

• Lime wedges

• Thinly sliced jalapeño or chili

• Sliced green onions

Directions

1. Prepare Broth: In a large pot, char the onion and ginger over an open flame or under a broiler until slightly blackened. Add to beef broth with cloves, star anise, cinnamon, fish sauce, and salt. Simmer for at least 45 minutes to infuse flavors.

2. Cook Beef: Add thinly sliced brisket to the hot broth and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.

3. Prepare Noodles: Rinse shirataki noodles thoroughly and boil for 2-3 minutes; drain well. Alternatively, prepare spiralized zucchini noodles by blanching briefly.

4. Assemble Bowls: Divide noodles among bowls. Ladle hot broth and beef over noodles.

5. Garnish: Top with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, jalapeños, and green onions. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Protein Choices: Use thinly sliced chicken, pork, or tofu.

• Vegetable Noodles: Substitute shirataki with zucchini, kelp, or spaghetti squash noodles.

• Spicy Pho: Add chili oil or fresh sliced chilies for heat.

• Bone Broth: Use homemade beef bone broth for added nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store broth and cooked beef separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat broth and beef gently before assembling bowls. Prepare noodles fresh before serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular rice noodles?

Traditional pho uses rice noodles, but they’re high in carbs and not keto-friendly.

How do I slice beef thinly?

Freeze beef partially for 30 minutes to firm it up, then slice thinly with a sharp knife.

Can I make broth ahead of time?

Yes, broth flavors improve when made in advance.

Is shirataki noodle flavor strong?

Rinse and boil well to reduce any odor; they absorb broth flavors.

Can I freeze leftover broth?

Yes, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

Can I add other vegetables?

Add bean sprouts or bok choy for extra crunch and nutrition.

How spicy is keto pho?

Mild by default; add fresh chilies or chili sauce to taste.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, naturally dairy-free.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Use vegetable broth and tofu with vegetable noodles.

How do I store garnishes?

Keep herbs and sprouts fresh in the refrigerator, separate from soup.

Conclusion

Keto Pho offers all the rich, aromatic flavors of traditional pho with a low-carb, keto-friendly twist. Combining a flavorful broth, tender beef, and fresh herbs with keto noodles, it’s a comforting and healthy meal perfect for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle.