Is pho keto friendly? – Calories, Nutrition and Keto Recipes

Is pho Keto-Friendly?

Traditional pho, a Vietnamese soup consisting primarily of broth, rice noodles and meat, is not typically considered keto-friendly. The primary reason for this is its high carbohydrate content, which primarily stems from the use of rice noodles. The ketogenic diet requires a strict limitation on carbohydrate intake, generally no more than 20-50 grams per day. As traditional pho can contain 25-50 grams of carbohydrates or even more in a single serving, it would likely exceed a keto dieter’s daily carb allotment.

However, for those who enjoy the flavors of pho and want to make it keto-friendly, there are certainly modifications that can be made. For example, substituting the noodles with spiralized vegetables or shirataki noodles, which are very low in carbs, can dramatically reduce the carbohydrate content while maintaining many of the flavors associated with pho.

Nutritional Facts About pho

Pho is a rich source of protein, primarily due to the meat ingredient, and the homemade bone broth offers a variety of minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus.

What is the Average Weight?

A typical bowl of pho is around 500 grams (16 oz) or approximately two cups.

Additional Information About pho

Pho also offers additional nutritional benefits. The bone broth base contributes to a healthy gut, hair, skin, and nails due to the collagen it contains. Moreover, the herbs and spices used, such as ginger and star anise, have anti-inflammatory properties and are rich in antioxidants.

Other Foods To Match With

A typical pho meal is often accompanied by bean sprouts, basil, cilantro, lime, and jalapenos, adding beneficial fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants to your diet. For a keto-friendly diet, pho can pair well with a salad or sauteed veggies to get more fullness without adding too many carbs. Protein sources like grilled chicken, tofu, or eggs could complement it nicely, adding a balance and fulfilling protein fat requirements for your keto diets.

8 Famous Keto-Friendly Dishes To Try

1. Keto-Friendly Pho Soup

Pho soup is a Vietnamese staple, but in the traditional recipe, rice noodles are often used, which are not keto-friendly due to their high carb content. However, it is possible to make a Keto-Friendly Pho Soup by replacing the noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles. The soup also includes beef or chicken, bone broth, aromatic herbs, and spices, providing a full-bodied flavor.

2. Low-Carb Pho Chicken Soup

This recipe adheres to the keto diet by using shirataki noodles instead of rice noodles. By combining chicken, aromatic spices, and vegetables, this dish delivers a nutrient-dense meal. The Low-Carb Pho Chicken Soup is a warming dish offering both comfort and healthy nutrients.

3. Keto-Friendly Beef Pho

Keto-Friendly Beef Pho is a satisfying recipe that adapts the famous pho soup for a ketogenic diet. It trades out traditional rice noodles for fattier components such as beef and beef bone broth. A variety of herbs and spices add layers of flavor to the soup, making it a delicious and comforting keto meal.

4. Keto Pho with Shirataki Noodles

Using shirataki noodles, a nearly zero-calorie and zero-carb substitute, you can make this Asian noodle soup without breaking your keto diet. Keto Pho with Shirataki Noodles is an excellent choice for those wanting a light but satisfying meal, rich in protein and healthy fats.

5. Keto-Friendly Chicken Pho with Zucchini Noodles

Filling and comforting, this Keto-Friendly Chicken Pho with Zucchini Noodles replaces rice noodles with spiralized zucchini. It’s a great way to experience the rich, traditional flavors of pho with a keto-approved twist that’s low in carbs but high in comfort.

6. Nutrient-Dense Beef Bone Broth Pho

Keto-diet observers can delight in this Nutrient-Dense Beef Bone Broth Pho recipe. The bone broth base provides ample protein and fats necessary for a ketogenic diet, while shirataki noodles keep carbs low, making this a nutritious and guilt-free bowl of pho.

7. Low-Carb Spicy Shrimp Pho

Seafood lovers can enjoy this Low-Carb Spicy Shrimp Pho on a keto diet. This recipe uses shirataki noodles and a broth made from shrimp and spices to create a rich, flavorful, and low-carb version of traditional pho.

8. Keto Pho with Konjac Noodles

Keto Pho with Konjac Noodles is an innovative recipe that’s perfect for keto dieters. Konjac noodles are similar to shirataki and offer a fantastic low-carb alternative to steamed rice noodles. Combined with a flavorful stock and quality meat, this dish brilliantly brings traditional pho into the keto lifestyle.

Is traditional pho keto friendly?

Traditional pho is not typically considered keto-friendly. This is due to the high carbohydrate content found in the rice noodles that are a staple in this Vietnamese dish. Pho’s soup base, which is typically made with a combination of broth, meats, and vegetables, can also contain hidden sugars that aren’t compatible with a keto diet.

How many carbs are in a bowl of pho?

The carbohydrate content in a bowl of pho can vary depending on the ingredients used and the size of the bowl, but a typical serving can contain anywhere from 50 to 100 grams of carbohydrates. Most of these carbs come from the rice noodles used in the dish. If you’re following a strict keto diet, where you aim to limit your daily carb intake to about 20-50 grams, a traditional bowl of pho could easily put you over your limits.

Can I make a keto-friendly version of pho?

Yes, it’s possible to make a keto-friendly version of pho. The key is to replace the high-carb rice noodles with a low-carb alternative, like zoodles (zucchini noodles), spaghetti squash, or shirataki noodles. Making your own broth at home with quality ingredients and avoiding additives with hidden sugars can also go a long way in making pho more compatible with a keto diet.

What is the nutrient profile of keto-friendly pho?

A keto-friendly version of pho that uses zoodles instead of rice noodles, and a homemade broth can be highly nutritious while remaining low in carbohydrates. For example, a serving might contain approximately:
* Calories: 300
* Fat: 6g
* Protein: 25g
* Carbohydrates: 10g
* Fiber: 2g

Please note that these numbers will vary depending on the exact ingredients and quantities used.

Are there other Vietnamese dishes that are keto-friendly?

Aside from modifying pho to make it keto-friendly, there are other Vietnamese dishes that are more naturally aligned with a keto diet. Grilled meat dishes, such as thit nuong (Vietnamese grilled pork), are high in protein and can be lower in carbs if you avoid sugary sauces and side dishes like rice. Canh chua (sour soup) can also be keto-friendly if you choose the versions without pineapple and tomatoes and opt for the ones with fish, shrimp, and vegetables instead. Be sure to always check the ingredients or ask about preparation methods to ensure that dishes align with your keto diet.

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