Craving a bowl of something warm, comforting, and packed with rich flavors? This Turkey Meatball Pho takes the beloved Vietnamese noodle soup and gives it a protein-packed, healthy twist. With tender turkey meatballs, fragrant spices, and slurp-worthy rice noodles, it’s the ultimate fusion of tradition and comfort. Perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests, this pho is easy to make and bursting with goodness.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Imperial | Metric (grams) |
|---|---|---|
| Rice noodles | 8 oz | 225 g |
| Ground turkey | 1 lb | 450 g |
| Egg | 1 large | ~55 g |
| Breadcrumbs (optional) | 1/4 cup | 30 g |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | ~6 g |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 tbsp | 15 g |
| Green onions (chopped) | 1/4 cup | 15 g |
| Star anise | 2 pods | — |
| Cinnamon stick | 1 large | — |
| Whole cloves | 3 | — |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups | 1.5 liters |
| Fish sauce | 2 tbsp | 30 ml |
| Lime (for serving) | 1 large | — |
| Bean sprouts (for garnish) | 1 cup | 100 g |
| Fresh cilantro (for garnish) | 2 tbsp | ~8 g |
Kitchen Accessories Needed
- Large stockpot
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Slotted spoon
Instructions
- Make the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs (if using), minced garlic, ginger, green onions, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs (about 1-inch in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until cooked through.
- Prepare the Broth: In a large stockpot, bring chicken broth to a simmer. Add star anise, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Let the spices steep for 10-15 minutes to infuse the broth with flavor.
- Cook the Noodles: Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Pho: Remove the spices from the broth using a slotted spoon. Add fish sauce to the broth and adjust seasoning as needed. Divide the noodles among bowls, top with meatballs, and ladle the hot broth over.
- Garnish and Serve: Add bean sprouts, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime to each bowl. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fats: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Servings: 4
Recipe Origin: A modern spin on traditional Vietnamese pho, blending classic flavors with turkey meatballs for a unique twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them altogether. Make sure the fish sauce and broth are gluten-free as well.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store the broth, noodles, and meatballs separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Combine and reheat before serving.
4. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! Add sliced chili peppers or a dollop of chili garlic sauce for extra heat.
5. What other toppings can I use?
Thai basil, jalapeños, or thinly sliced onions make excellent additions to this pho.
6. Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Certainly! Cook the meatballs and store them in the fridge or freezer. Reheat them in the broth when ready to serve.
This Turkey Meatball Pho is a hearty, flavorful, and healthy twist on a classic soup. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests, it’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. Need the perfect stockpot for this recipe? Check out our Recommended Stockpot Here for flawless results every time!
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