Delicious Low-Carb Vietnamese Pho with Shirataki Noodles: Your Keto Diet Solution

Discover the Delights of Low-Carb Vietnamese Pho with Shirataki Noodles

Welcome to a world where comfort food meets dietary consciousness. Imagine indulging in the rich, aromatic flavors of a classic Vietnamese Pho without straying from your keto goals. That’s exactly what you get with our Low-Carb Vietnamese Pho with Shirataki Noodles. This dish is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a warm, satisfying meal that aligns perfectly with a low-carb, high-fat lifestyle.

The magic of this recipe lies in its ability to mimic traditional Pho while keeping carbs at bay. Shirataki noodles, the star of this dish, are a keto dieter’s dream, offering the perfect noodle-like texture without the carb load. Paired with a flavorful broth and tender beef, this Pho is a guilt-free way to enjoy a beloved Vietnamese classic.

Low-Carb Vietnamese Pho with Shirataki Noodles

The Keto-Friendly Twist on a Vietnamese Classic

There’s something truly special about a bowl of Pho. It’s a dish that’s steeped in tradition, with each simmering pot telling a story. But when you’re following a ketogenic diet, traditional Pho, laden with rice noodles, isn’t on the menu. That’s where our Low-Carb Vietnamese Pho with Shirataki Noodles comes in, offering a delicious solution that keeps you firmly on the keto track.

This recipe is a testament to the versatility of keto cooking, proving that with a little creativity, you can transform any dish into a low-carb delight. The shirataki noodles are a game-changer, made from the konjac plant, they are virtually carb-free and serve as an excellent substitute for rice noodles. The beef sirloin, rich in protein and fats, complements the keto macros, while the aromatic spices and herbs provide an array of health benefits, from aiding digestion to reducing inflammation.

Each ingredient has been carefully selected not only for flavor but for their nutritional profile, making this Pho a powerhouse of keto-friendly goodness. The warming spices, like star anise and cinnamon, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, while the ginger adds a digestive aid. The beef broth serves as a base for the soup, offering both flavor and nourishment, and the addition of fresh herbs like cilantro and basil brings a burst of freshness to each bowl.

Ingredients for Low-Carb Vietnamese Pho

Mastering the Art of Keto Pho

The secret to a great Pho is in the broth, and this low-carb version is no exception. Begin by gently sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger to create a flavorful foundation. As these aromatics soften and release their essence, the kitchen will fill with an enticing scent, signaling the start of something special.

When it comes to simmering the broth, patience is key. Allowing the spices to infuse slowly not only develops depth but also ensures that the medicinal qualities of the spices are imparted into the broth. As for the shirataki noodles, make sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove any natural odors before boiling, as this will ensure the best texture and taste.

Adding the thinly sliced beef to the hot broth cooks it quickly, preserving its tenderness and flavor. When assembling your Pho, take care to distribute the noodles, beef, and broth evenly among the bowls. The final flourish of herbs and garnishes is not just for aesthetics; they add bursts of flavor and texture that elevate the dish from good to sublime.

Low-Carb Vietnamese Pho Ready to Serve

Creative Twists on Your Keto Pho

Seafood Sensation

Transform your Pho into a pescatarian’s dream by substituting beef with a mix of seafood. Shrimp, scallops, and even squid can make excellent additions. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as seafood generally cooks faster than beef.

Vegetarian Vibe

For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with tofu and use a robust vegetable broth. You can add extra veggies like bok choy or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavors that keep the dish hearty and satisfying.

Spicy Adventure

If you love heat, don’t hesitate to kick it up a notch. Add more jalapeño slices or even a dash of hot sauce to your Pho. The spice not only adds excitement to each bite but can also boost your metabolism.

Substitutions to Suit Every Keto Palate

Understanding that dietary needs and preferences vary, here are some keto-friendly substitutions to tailor your Pho experience:

For those who prefer chicken, swap out the beef sirloin for chicken thighs, which remain juicy and flavorful when thinly sliced and quickly cooked in the hot broth.

If fish sauce isn’t your thing or you’re looking for a vegetarian option, coconut aminos make a great alternative, adding a similar umami depth to the broth without the fish.

And for a different herbal profile, try swapping basil with mint. The mint provides a refreshing contrast to the rich broth and complements the other flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common queries about making Low-Carb Vietnamese Pho with Shirataki Noodles:

Can I make the broth ahead of time?

Yes, preparing the broth in advance can deepen the flavors. Simply refrigerate and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?

Store noodles and broth separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain texture and freshness.

Is this dish spicy?

The spice level is adjustable. Use fewer jalapeños for a milder taste or more for extra heat.

Can I use zucchini noodles instead of shirataki?

Absolutely, zucchini noodles are a great low-carb alternative, although they will have a different texture.

What’s the best way to slice the beef thinly?

Freeze the beef slightly before slicing to make it easier to cut thin, even slices.

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Low-Carb Vietnamese Pho with Shirataki Noodles

This Low-Carb Vietnamese Pho with Shirataki Noodles is a delectable keto-friendly twist on the classic Vietnamese soup. It's rich, aromatic, and satisfying, perfect for anyone looking for a low-carb comfort meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Vietnamese
Servings 4 servings
Calories 175 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Strainer
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz beef sirloin, thinly sliced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 packs shirataki noodles, drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 2 star anise
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 whole cloves
  • 1 cardamom pod
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • Salt, to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 green onions, sliced green onions, sliced
  • 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • Bean sprouts, for garnish (optional)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until the onions become translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Add the beef broth to the pot along with the star anise, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pod. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes to infuse the broth with the spices.
  • While the broth is simmering, prepare the shirataki noodles according to the package instructions, usually involving rinsing and boiling for a couple of minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • After the broth has simmered, strain out the spices and discard them, returning the broth to the pot. Stir in the fish sauce and salt to taste.
  • Increase the heat to medium-high and add the thinly sliced beef sirloin to the broth, cooking just until the beef is no longer pink. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
  • To assemble the pho, divide the shirataki noodles among four serving bowls. Ladle the hot broth and beef slices over the noodles.
  • Top each bowl with the chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, jalapeño slices, and a few basil leaves. Serve with lime wedges and bean sprouts, if using, on the side.

Notes

For a richer broth, simmer with beef bones for an additional 30 minutes before adding the sirloin.
Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less jalapeño.
Shirataki noodles are a fantastic low-carb substitute for traditional rice noodles, but ensure they are well-rinsed to remove any unwanted odors.
If you prefer a more tender cut of beef, you can use beef tenderloin in place of sirloin.

Nutrition

Calories: 175kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 15gFat: 10gFiber: 3gNet Carbs: 5g
Keyword Keto Dinner, keto Vietnamese soup, low-carb Asian cuisine, low-carb pho, shirataki noodles pho
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