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Hi there! Katie here, your fellow seafood-loving pescatarian cook!
Today I’m so excited to share my favorite quick and easy shrimp pho recipe that brings all those amazing Vietnamese flavors to your table in just 30 minutes. 🍤
As usual, and as our readers know, we have a ‘Jump to Recipe’ button and a ‘Table of Contents’ to make navigation easier. In a hurry? Just click to skip right to the recipe card below!
Pho has always held a special place in my heart. The fragrant broth, fresh herbs, and tender rice noodles create such a comforting bowl of goodness.
While traditional beef pho takes hours to prepare, this shrimp version delivers those authentic flavors in a fraction of the time – perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving something special!
Table of Contents
The Essential Components of Authentic Pho
Authentic pho relies on a few key elements that bring those iconic flavors we all love. Even in this quick version, we’ll make sure to include them!
The soul of any pho is its flavorful broth. Traditional pho broth simmers for hours, but we’ll use some clever shortcuts to get amazing flavor in less time.
FUN FACT: Pho originated in Northern Vietnam in the early 20th century and was influenced by both local Vietnamese and French cooking techniques.
The aromatic spices are non-negotiable in good pho. Star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and fresh ginger create that signature scent that makes pho instantly recognizable.
“The magic of pho isn’t just in the ingredients – it’s in how they come together to create something greater than the sum of their parts.”
What makes our quick version work so well is how we intensify those flavors in less time. By charring the ginger and onion first and toasting our spices, we get maximum flavor extraction even with a shorter cook time.
Why You’ll Love This Quick Shrimp Pho Recipe
This shrimp pho has become my go-to meal for so many reasons:
It’s ready in just 30 minutes but tastes like it simmered all day! Perfect for those evenings when you want something special without hours in the kitchen.
As a pescatarian, I love that it’s a lighter alternative to traditional beef pho but still packs tons of flavor and satisfaction.
TIP: Keep frozen shrimp on hand, and you can make this comforting meal anytime with just a few pantry staples!
The heat level is completely up to you! Add more jalapeños and sriracha for a spicy kick, or keep it mild – it’s totally customizable.
Most of the ingredients are easy to find in regular grocery stores now, making this accessible for home cooks everywhere!
Shrimp Pho Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This streamlined version features plump shrimp, tender rice noodles, and a fragrant broth infused with traditional pho spices for a satisfying meal that comes together quickly.
Ingredients
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 small onion, halved
- 3-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
- 3 star anise pods
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cloves
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups bean sprouts
- 1 bunch fresh Thai basil leaves
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 cup mint leaves
- 2 limes, cut into wedges
- 2 jalapeños, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Hoisin sauce and sriracha for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine chicken broth, onion, ginger, star anise, cinnamon stick, and cloves
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes
- Meanwhile, prepare rice noodles according to package instructions, then drain and rinse
- Strain the broth, discarding the solids
- Return broth to the pot and add fish sauce and brown sugar
- Bring back to a simmer and add shrimp
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until shrimp are pink and opaque
- To serve, divide noodles among bowls
- Ladle the hot broth and shrimp over noodles
- Arrange bean sprouts, herbs, lime wedges, jalapeños, and green onions on a platter
- Allow each person to customize their bowl with the fresh garnishes
- Serve with hoisin sauce and sriracha on the side
Notes
- For deeper flavor, char the onion and ginger before adding to the broth
- Substitute vegetable broth for a pescatarian version
- Pre-toasting whole spices enhances their aromatic qualities
- Add a splash of lime juice to the broth just before serving for brightness
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Cuisine: Vietnamese-Inspired
The Art of Building Flavor in Quick Pho
Creating restaurant-quality pho at home is all about building layers of flavor, even when time is limited.
Quality broth is your foundation. While homemade is amazing, a good store-bought chicken or vegetable broth works well for quick versions – just look for low-sodium varieties so you can control the salt level.
FLAVOR BOOST: Char your onion and ginger before adding to the broth! Simply cut the onion in half and ginger into thick slices, then place them cut-side down in a dry pan over medium-high heat until they get dark and fragrant. This adds incredible depth!
Toasting your spices before adding them to the broth releases their essential oils and creates a much more fragrant result. Just toss them in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes until you smell their amazing aroma. 🌟
A splash of fish sauce might seem small, but it brings that crucial umami element that makes pho so satisfying. Don’t skip it!
Health Benefits of Shrimp Pho
One of the reasons I love this shrimp pho so much is that it’s not just delicious – it’s good for you too!
Shrimp provides lean protein and important nutrients:
| Nutrient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Protein | 20g per 3oz serving, essential for muscle health |
| Omega-3s | Supports heart and brain health |
| Selenium | Powerful antioxidant properties |
| Vitamin B12 | Supports nervous system function |
| Iodine | Important for thyroid health |
The aromatic spices aren’t just for flavor – they offer health benefits too! Ginger helps with digestion, while cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar.
HEALTH FACT: The fresh herbs in pho (cilantro, mint, basil) are packed with antioxidants and add nutrition along with brightening the flavor.
This shrimp pho fits perfectly into various eating approaches:
- Lower in calories than beef pho
- Gluten-free (check your fish sauce to be sure)
- High in protein
- Packed with vegetables when you add all the fresh toppings
It’s my go-to meal when I’m feeling under the weather – that warming broth with ginger and herbs feels like a hug in a bowl! 🤗
References:
– Healthline
– SnapCalorie
Mastering the Pho Broth
The broth is truly where the magic happens in pho. Here’s how to get it right every time:
Balance is key in pho broth. You’re looking for the perfect harmony between sweet, salty, and savory notes. Start with less fish sauce and sugar than the recipe calls for – you can always add more to taste.
PRO TIP: For a clearer broth, bring it to a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil, and skim off any foam that rises to the top.
Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning! Taste your broth before serving and add:
- More fish sauce for saltiness and umami
- A bit more sugar for sweetness
- A squeeze of lime for acidity
- A dash of sriracha for heat
The perfect pho broth should be fragrant, clear, and complex – with no single flavor overpowering the others.
Creative Variations for Your Shrimp Pho
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, why not try these delicious variations?
Spicy Shrimp Pho
For heat lovers like me, kick things up with:
- 1-2 teaspoons of chili oil added to the broth
- Extra sliced jalapeños or Thai bird chilies
- A dollop of sambal oelek or gochujang for complex spice
Balance that heat with a little extra brown sugar to round out the flavors.
Seafood Medley Pho
Turn this into a seafood feast by adding:
- Bay scallops (add at the same time as shrimp)
- Firm white fish cut into chunks (add 1 minute before shrimp)
- Mussels (add 3-4 minutes before shrimp until they open)
COOKING TIP: Different seafood needs different cooking times. Add them in stages with the longest-cooking items first!
Vegetable-Forward Shrimp Pho
Make this even more nutritious by adding:
- Bok choy or spinach (add right before serving to wilt in the hot broth)
- Sliced mushrooms (simmer in the broth for 5 minutes)
- Crisp snap peas or julienned carrots (add raw as a topping)
These additions create beautiful texture contrasts and add vibrant color to your bowl! 🥕
Essential Toppings and Garnishes
The fresh toppings are what makes each bowl of pho unique and personal. Here’s how to set up the perfect garnish platter:
Fresh herbs are the crown jewels of pho. Thai basil, cilantro, and mint should be served with stems attached so they stay fresh longer.
SERVING TIP: Arrange all your garnishes on a separate platter so everyone can customize their own bowl. It’s part of the fun of eating pho!
Bean sprouts add wonderful crunch. Give them a quick rinse in cold water and pat dry before serving to keep them crisp.
Lime wedges are essential – that fresh squeeze brightens the whole dish. I like to prepare extra because I always want more!
For a beautiful presentation, arrange your garnish platter in groups of ingredients with:
- Herbs together in little bouquets
- Lime wedges in a fan pattern
- Bean sprouts in a neat pile
- Jalapeños in a small dish for those who want heat
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Shrimp Pho
Even experienced cooks can hit a few bumps when making pho. Here’s how to avoid the most common issues:
Overcooking the shrimp is probably the biggest mistake. They only need 2-3 minutes in the simmering broth until they turn pink and opaque. Any longer and they’ll become tough and rubbery.
TIMING TIP: If you’re serving a crowd, you might want to cook the shrimp in batches or right before serving for the best texture.
Over-spicing can overwhelm the delicate balance of flavors. Start with the recommended amounts, then adjust to your taste.
When it comes to noodles, follow package directions but err on the side of undercooking slightly – they’ll continue to soften in the hot broth.
Serve pho immediately while it’s steaming hot! The contrast between the hot broth and fresh, cool toppings is what makes each bite so special.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Make your shrimp pho meal even more special with these serving ideas:
Vietnamese fresh spring rolls make a perfect starter before the main course of pho. The light, fresh flavors prepare your palate perfectly.
For drinks, try:
- Jasmine tea (hot or iced)
- Coconut water
- Vietnamese iced coffee for dessert
PAIRING SUGGESTION: A crisp, slightly sweet Riesling or Gewürztraminer pairs beautifully with the aromatic spices in pho if you’re enjoying wine with your meal.
For a fun family dinner, set up a “pho bar” with all the toppings, broths, and noodles separate so everyone can build their perfect bowl.
Don’t forget extra condiments on the table:
- Hoisin sauce
- Sriracha
- Chili oil
- Fish sauce
- Lime wedges
Conclusion
This quick and easy shrimp pho brings all the complex flavors and comfort of traditional pho to your table in just 30 minutes! It’s proof that you don’t need hours of simmering to create something truly special.
The beauty of pho is in its flexibility – make it spicy or mild, loaded with veggies or simple and clean. This recipe is just the beginning! I’d love to hear how you customize your own version.
What makes pho special is the perfect balance of fragrant broth, tender noodles, protein, and fresh herbs and veggies – each bite a little different from the last.
You may also like:
– Sous Vide Shrimp Recipe
– Thai Noddle Salad
– Shrimp and Marinara Sauce Recipe
– Steamed Shrimp Recipe
Have questions about this recipe or want to share your own pho variations? Drop a comment below! I always love hearing from fellow seafood enthusiasts. 😊
Happy cooking!
Katie 🦐
