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The Ultimate Pho Spices Guide

This essential pho spice blend is the secret to a rich, aromatic broth. Whether you’re mixing your own or using a pre-packaged blend, these spices—like star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and coriander seeds—bring warmth, depth, and that signature pho flavor. Perfect for beef or chicken pho, and easy to customize based on your taste!

Prep Time
2 mins
Total Time
2 mins
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 8 kcal
Course: Condiments
Cuisine: Vietnamese

Ingredients

  • 5 star anise pods
  • 2 cinnamon stick
  • 1 teaspoon whole cloves
  • ½ tablespoon coriander seeds
  • 1 black cardamom pod
  • ½ tablespoon fennel seeds (optional)

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Toast the Spices. In a dry skillet over medium-low heat, toast the spices for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Add coriander and fennel seeds during the last minute to prevent burning.
  2. Prepare the Spice Bag. Place the toasted spices into a cheesecloth, muslin cloth, or spice bag. Tie it securely to keep everything contained.
  3. Simmer the Broth. Add the spice bag to your simmering pho broth during the last 30-40 minutes of cooking. Remove once the broth is infused to your liking.

Notes

  • Toasting enhances aroma and depth—don’t skip it!
  • Use a tea infuser or reusable spice ball if you don’t have cheesecloth.
  • Remove the bag after 30-40 minutes to avoid overpowering the broth.
  • Store leftover toasted spices in an airtight jar for next time!
  • Toasting enhances aroma and depth—don’t skip it!
  • Use a tea infuser or reusable spice ball if you don’t have cheesecloth.
  • Remove the bag after 30-40 minutes to avoid overpowering the broth.
  • Store leftover toasted spices in an airtight jar for next time!

Nutrition Information

Calories 8kcal (0%) Carbohydrates 2g (1%) Protein 0.3g (1%) Fat 0.3g (0%) Saturated Fat 0.02g (0%) Polyunsaturated Fat 0.04g Monounsaturated Fat 0.1g Sodium 1mg (0%) Potassium 27mg (1%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 0.02g (0%) Vitamin A 5IU (0%) Vitamin C 0.4mg (0%) Calcium 21mg (2%) Iron 0.5mg (3%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 8servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 8

% Daily Value*

Calories 8kcal 0%
Carbohydrates 2g 1%
Protein 0.3g 1%
Fat 0.3g 0%
Saturated Fat 0.02g 0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.04g 0%
Monounsaturated Fat 0.1g 1%
Sodium 1mg 0%
Potassium 27mg 1%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 0.02g 0%
Vitamin A 5IU 0%
Vitamin C 0.4mg 0%
Calcium 21mg 2%
Iron 0.5mg 3%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.