Pho is a dish that warms the soul and nourishes the body. This AIP-friendly version captures the essence of traditional pho while staying true to dietary needs, making it perfect for anyone seeking a wholesome, satisfying meal. Featuring a rich, spiced bone broth, tender slices of beef, and refreshing garnishes, this pho delivers a balance of comfort and nutrition in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Nutrient-Dense Broth: Bone broth is the heart of this dish, providing essential collagen, amino acids, and minerals for joint, gut, and immune health.
2. Aromatic Spices: Cinnamon, cloves, coriander, and ginger infuse the broth with warm, soothing flavors.
3. Customizable: Whether you’re strict AIP or looking for a grain-free noodle alternative, this recipe adapts to your needs without compromising taste.
4. Quick and Simple: With minimal prep and bold flavors, it’s easier than you think to bring the magic of pho to your kitchen.

Why This Pho Supports an Anti-Inflammatory Diet

An anti-inflammatory diet focuses on reducing foods that promote chronic inflammation while incorporating nutrient-dense, soothing ingredients. Here’s how this AIP pho fits perfectly:

1. Bone Broth: The Ultimate Gut-Healer

Bone broth is packed with collagen, gelatin, and amino acids like glycine and proline, which help repair the gut lining. A healthy gut is essential for reducing systemic inflammation and improving nutrient absorption.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Spices

• Ginger: Contains gingerol, a bioactive compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
• Cinnamon: Helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduces inflammation.
• Cloves and Coriander: Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and inflammation.

3. Fresh Herbs and Vegetables

• Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb, grain-free alternative to traditional noodles, zucchini supports healthy digestion and provides hydration.
• Cilantro and Thai Basil: These herbs are high in antioxidants and help detoxify the body.
• Onion and Green Onions: Contain quercetin, a compound known to reduce inflammation.

Ingredients: What Makes This Pho Special

For the Broth

• Bone Broth: The foundation of flavor and nutrition. Use beef or chicken broth based on preference.
• Aromatics: Onion and ginger bring depth and warmth.
• Spices: Cinnamon sticks, cloves, and coriander seeds replicate traditional pho spices.
• Coconut Aminos: Adds a subtle sweetness and umami depth while keeping it AIP-compliant.
• Fish Sauce: Enhances savoriness, but ensure it’s AIP-friendly.

For the Soup

• Zucchini Noodles: A light, AIP-compliant alternative to traditional rice noodles.
• Beef: Thinly sliced sirloin or flank steak cooks quickly in the hot broth, staying tender and flavorful.
• Fresh Herbs and Garnishes: Thai basil, cilantro, green onions, and lime wedges add brightness and texture.

Vietnamese-Inspired Pho Noodle Soup

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Calories 988 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Broth:

• 8 cups bone broth beef or chicken
• 1 onion halved
• 3- inch piece of ginger sliced
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3 whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce ensure AIP compliance
• 1 tablespoon coconut aminos to enhance savoriness and add depth
• Salt to taste

For the Soup:

• 8 oz zucchini noodles or other AIP-compliant noodles
• 1 pound thinly sliced beef such as sirloin or flank steak
• 1 onion thinly sliced
• 4 green onions thinly sliced
• 1 cup bean sprouts omit for strict AIP
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
• Fresh Thai basil leaves for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

 

• In a large pot, combine the bone broth, halved onion, sliced ginger, cinnamon sticks, cloves, coriander seeds, and fish sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add the coconut aminos to enhance the savory flavor. Simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust salt to taste.
• In a separate pot, cook the zucchini noodles according to package instructions or until tender. Set aside.
• Thinly slice the beef. Add it to the simmering broth and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the beef is cooked to your preference.
• Divide the cooked zucchini noodles among bowls. Ladle the hot broth and beef over the noodles.
• Top with thinly sliced onion, green onions, bean sprouts (if using), cilantro leaves, and Thai basil leaves. Serve with lime wedges on the side for added freshness.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Balanced Flavors: The combination of spices, herbs, and umami-rich broth delivers an authentic pho experience.
2. Quick Cooking Time: Thinly sliced beef and pre-prepped zucchini noodles make this dish quick and easy.
3. AIP-Friendly Adaptations: Zucchini noodles and carefully selected seasonings ensure this recipe stays compliant while still satisfying.

Health Benefits of AIP Pho

1. Gut-Healing Broth: Bone broth is rich in gelatin and amino acids that support gut lining repair and reduce inflammation.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Spices: Ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon combat inflammation and improve digestion.
3. Nutrient-Dense Ingredients: Zucchini, beef, and fresh herbs provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants essential for overall health.

Tips for Success

• Enhance the Broth: Simmer the aromatics longer for an even richer flavor.
• Prep Ahead: Cook the beef and noodles in advance to streamline assembly when serving.
• Customize Garnishes: Add more herbs or spices to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

This pho is a complete meal, but you can pair it with:

• A light side salad of mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette.
• Steamed greens like bok choy or spinach for extra nutrients.

Why You’ll Love This Pho

This Vietnamese-Inspired Pho is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. It’s warming, flavorful, and customizable to your preferences, making it a family-friendly meal or a personal treat. Whether you’re new to pho or a seasoned fan, this recipe delivers all the satisfying flavors and textures without compromising on health or dietary restrictions.

Here’s to enjoying every nourishing sip and slurp!