Quick Shrimp Pho

Whenever I find myself reminiscing about cozy nights spent with friends, the dish that often comes to mind is Quick Shrimp Pho. This flavorful noodle soup holds a special place in my heart. Every slurp of those delicate rice noodles and succulent shrimp seems to transport me back to bustling street markets filled with the most aromatic scents. I remember the first time I tried it, with steam rising from the bowl and the spicy tang of broth hitting my senses. It felt like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Now, I love to recreate that experience in my own kitchen, using fresh ingredients to whip up a comforting bowl of Quick Shrimp Pho. It’s not just a meal; it’s a moment, a memory crafted with care and love.

Everything You Need for Quick Shrimp Pho

In the world of cooking, the ingredients you choose can transform a dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Quick Shrimp Pho is no exception. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect bowl of flavor. The key players here are the shrimp, broth, and fresh vegetables, which work in harmony to create a delightful symphony of tastes. Let’s explore these ingredients that come together to make this dish a masterpiece.

• 1 pound large shrimp: The star of the show! Fresh shrimp adds a sweet, briny flavor that enhances the broth and complements the other ingredients.
• 1 ½ quarts vegetable or chicken broth: This is the base of your pho. Choose a high-quality broth for a rich and flavorful result.
• 1 Tbsp fish sauce: A key ingredient that brings depth and umami to your broth, making it irresistibly savory.
• 1 Tbsp soy sauce: Adds a touch of saltiness and a hint of sweetness, balancing the overall flavor profile.
• 1 cinnamon stick: Imparts a warm spice that elevates the aromatic experience of your pho.
• 1 star anise pod: This unique spice gives a distinct licorice flavor, a trademark of traditional pho.
• 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced: Adds a zingy freshness that complements the other spices.
• 8 oz white mushrooms, halved: Adds an earthy flavor and a delightful texture to the broth.
• 1 bunch cilantro: Fresh herbs brighten the dish and add a burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich broth.
• Salt to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your pho.
• 6 ounces thin rice noodles: The perfect vehicle for all the delicious broth and toppings.
• 3 cups cauliflower or broccoli, from 1 small head: Adds a nutritious crunch and color to your dish.
• Garnish: Thinly sliced jalapeño, lime wedges, mung bean sprouts, fresh mint, Thai basil, sliced scallions, sriracha, and/or hoisin sauce to finish your pho with a burst of freshness and flavor.

How to Make Quick Shrimp Pho

Making Quick Shrimp Pho in your kitchen is an experience you won’t forget. The aroma that wafts through your home as the broth simmers is just as satisfying as the meal itself. Follow these simple steps to create a bowl of pho that’s bursting with flavor.

1. Start with the shrimp. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw it completely. Drain any excess water and pat it dry with a paper towel. If you’re using fresh, shell-on shrimp, peel it and reserve the shells for the stock. This step is crucial for maximizing flavor!
2. Next, combine your base ingredients. In a medium saucepan, add the vegetable or chicken broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, cinnamon stick, star anise pod, and sliced ginger. If you have the shells from the fresh shrimp, toss those in, too. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
3. While the broth is heating, take the leafy tops from the bunch of cilantro. You want to add all the stems to the saucepan for extra flavor. Let the broth simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells incredible and the flavors have melded beautifully.
4. Once the broth is aromatic, it’s time to strain it. Use a slotted spoon to remove and discard all the solids. Keep the broth at a gentle simmer while you prepare the noodles and vegetables.
5. In a wide skillet, fill it with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, remove it from the heat and add the thin rice noodles. Allow them to soak for 3 to 5 minutes, or according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. These noodles are the heart of your Quick Shrimp Pho.
6. Now, add your mushrooms and cauliflower or broccoli to the simmering broth. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes or just until they’re tender but still crisp. You want to preserve some of that delightful texture!
7. It’s time to introduce the shrimp into the pot. Add them to the broth and cook for just 1 to 2 minutes, until they turn firm, opaque, and pink. This step is quick, so keep an eye on them!
8. Now, it’s assembly time. In each bowl, start by dividing the rice noodles evenly. Use a slotted spoon to distribute the shrimp and veggies over the noodles, aiming for about 1 ¼ cup of each per bowl.
9. Finally, ladle 1 cup of that fragrant broth over the top of each bowl. The warmth will bring everything together beautifully.
10. Garnish your Quick Shrimp Pho however you like! Add thinly sliced jalapeño, fresh mint, Thai basil, scallions, and sriracha for a kick. A squeeze of lime adds a delightful brightness!

How to Switch It Up

While Quick Shrimp Pho is already fantastic, there are many creative ways to switch it up! Here are some ideas to inspire your next bowl:

• Vegetarian Option: Use tofu instead of shrimp and vegetable broth for a delightful vegetarian version.
• Spice It Up: If you like it hot, feel free to add more chili peppers or a splash of chili oil.
• Add Some Crunch: Consider topping your pho with roasted peanuts or crispy shallots for added texture.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil or coriander to find your perfect flavor combination.
• Flavor Boost: Add a bit of miso paste to the broth for an extra umami kick.
• Serve Chilled: On hot days, try serving your pho chilled with fresh veggies for a refreshing twist.

What Complements This Quick Shrimp Pho

• Side Dishes: Pair your pho with fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp and herbs for a delightful starter.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual dinners or when you want to impress guests. It’s also a great choice for cozy nights in.
• Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy Quick Shrimp Pho year-round, but it pairs especially well with light summer salads or roasted winter vegetables.
• Storage Tips: Leftover broth can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just keep the garnishes separate until serving.
• Flavor Enhancements: For an extra layer of flavor, serve with a side of hoisin sauce or additional fresh herbs.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Quick Shrimp Pho is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its fragrant broth, fresh ingredients, and customizable toppings, it’s a recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. I encourage you to try making this fantastic dish at home. You’ll love how easy and satisfying it is, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Quick Shrimp Pho

The ultimate comfort food, Quick Shrimp Pho is a fragrant and delicious noodle soup that combines succulent shrimp and fresh vegetables in a savory broth. It’s the perfect quick meal for busy weeknights, ensuring you don’t compromise on flavor. Make it tonight, and savor every bite!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Dinner

Cuisine Vietnamese

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Peeler
• Large Pot
• Saucepan
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound large shrimp
• 1.5 quarts vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 Tbsp fish sauce
• 1 Tbsp soy sauce
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 star anise pod
• 1 inch piece ginger, sliced
• 8 oz white mushrooms, halved
• 1 bunch cilantro
• Salt to taste
• 6 oz thin rice noodles
• 3 cups cauliflower or broccoli, from 1 small head
• Garnish: Thinly sliced jalapeno, lime wedges, mung bean sprouts, fresh mint, Thai basil, sliced scallions, sriracha, and/or hoisin sauce

Instructions

 

• If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw it completely and drain as much water as possible, using a paper towel to pat it dry.
• If you’re using fresh, shell-on shrimp, peel it and reserve the shells for the stock.
• Add the broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, cinnamon stick, star anise pod, sliced ginger, and (if applicable) shrimp shells to a medium saucepan and bring to a simmer.
• Chop the leafy tops from the bunch of cilantro. Add all the stems to the saucepan.
• Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, or until very fragrant, then use a slotted spoon to remove and discard the solids. Keep at a gentle simmer.
• Meanwhile, just before the broth is ready fill a wide skillet with water and bring to a boil over high heat, then remove from heat and add the rice noodles.
• Let soak for 3 to 5 minutes, or according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• Add the mushrooms and cauliflower florets to the broth and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
• Add the shrimp and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, until firm, opaque, and pink.
• Divide the rice noodles to each bowl first, then use a slotted spoon to distribute the shrimp and veggies, about 1 ¼ cup each.
• Ladle 1 cup broth over the top and garnish however you like.
• Serve with lime wedges and sriracha.

Notes

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the broth for later use, but it’s best to keep the shrimp and noodles separate until serving.
• Pairing: This dish pairs well with fresh spring rolls or a light salad for a complete meal.
• Variations: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to your taste!

Keyword easy noodle soup, Quick Shrimp Pho, shrimp recipes, Vietnamese Pho

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Meet Elena Vance

I am passionate about the idea that we eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make food look just as good as it tastes. I work closely with the team to style and photograph our dishes, giving you a clear, beautiful guide on what to aim for. I had so much fun preparing this recipe, and I hope you find just as much joy in making it (and eating it!) as we did.