Turkey Pho Recipe

There’s something so comforting about a steaming bowl of pho, the fragrant broth swirling with rice noodles, herbs, and tender meat. Now, imagine giving this Vietnamese classic a Thanksgiving twist by using turkey instead of the usual beef or chicken. This turkey pho is light yet flavorful, nourishing yet exciting, and it’s the perfect way to breathe new life into your leftover turkey.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born out of the classic dilemma: what to do with all that leftover turkey after the holidays. Instead of another sandwich or casserole, I wanted something fresh and vibrant. The answer came in the form of pho, a dish that always warms the soul. The aromatic spices, the clear, fragrant broth, and the bright herbs make this turkey pho a dish that feels like a complete renewal.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Pho is Vietnam’s national dish, deeply rooted in its history and culture. Traditionally made with beef (pho bo) or chicken (pho ga), the dish is known for its long-simmered broth infused with spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves. Turkey pho is a modern adaptation, popular in Western kitchens, especially around the holidays. It’s a clever way to merge two traditions into one bowl of comfort.

Why You’ll Love Turkey Pho Recipe

This dish has a way of winning hearts at the table, and here’s why you’ll love it too:

Versatile: A hearty dinner, a light lunch, or even a soothing bowl when you’re under the weather.

Budget-Friendly: Uses leftover turkey, making it a cost-effective meal.

Quick and Easy: Much faster than traditional pho, thanks to pre-cooked turkey.

Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, vegetables, and toppings.

Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone can build their own bowl to taste.

Make-Ahead Friendly: The broth can be prepared ahead of time and reheated.

Great for Leftovers: Keeps well for several days and tastes even better the next day.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

The key to an unforgettable bowl of pho is the broth. Here’s how to make it shine:

1. Toast the spices before adding them to the broth to release their oils and deepen flavor.
2. Char onion and ginger under the broiler for a few minutes, it adds smoky complexity.
3. Simmer gently, don’t boil, to keep the broth clear and clean-tasting.
4. Always taste and adjust with fish sauce and lime juice at the end for balance.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe requires just a few essentials:

Large Pot: For simmering the broth and noodles.

Strainer: To remove spices and aromatics.

Tongs: For handling noodles and turkey pieces.

Ladle: To serve the broth with ease.

Soup Bowls: Wide, deep bowls work best for pho.

Ingredients in Turkey Pho Recipe

Each ingredient works in harmony to create a broth that’s fragrant and deeply comforting.

1. Turkey Bones: 2–3 pounds (from roasted turkey, with some meat attached) provide the rich base of the broth.
2. Water: 12 cups forms the broth foundation.
3. Onion: 1 large, halved adds sweetness and depth.
4. Fresh Ginger: 3-inch piece, halved gives warm spice.
5. Star Anise: 3 pods infuses signature pho flavor.
6. Cinnamon Stick: 1 lends warmth and aroma.
7. Cloves: 4 whole add subtle spice.
8. Coriander Seeds: 1 tablespoon boost earthiness.
9. Fish Sauce: 3 tablespoons seasons the broth authentically.
10. Rock Sugar or Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon balances savory flavors.
11. Rice Noodles: 12 ounces (dried, flat) the classic pho base.
12. Cooked Turkey Meat: 2–3 cups, shredded tender protein for serving.
13. Fresh Herbs: 1 cup (cilantro, Thai basil, mint) add brightness.
14. Bean Sprouts: 2 cups bring crunch.
15. Lime Wedges: 2–3 for tangy finishing.
16. Jalapeño or Thai Chili: 1, thinly sliced for optional heat.
17. Hoisin Sauce: to taste optional topping.
18. Sriracha: to taste optional spicy kick.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have everything on hand, here are easy swaps:

Turkey Bones: Use chicken carcass instead.
Fish Sauce: Soy sauce works in a pinch.
Rice Noodles: Try vermicelli or even spaghetti.
Rock Sugar: White sugar can substitute.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley can step in if Thai basil isn’t available.

Ingredient Spotlight

Star Anise: This star-shaped spice is essential in pho broth, lending a sweet, licorice-like aroma.

Fish Sauce: The umami backbone of pho, balancing saltiness with complexity.

Instructions for Making Turkey Pho Recipe

Now let’s build the ultimate bowl of pho together.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Place onion and ginger under the broiler for 5 minutes until charred. Toast star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and coriander seeds in a dry pan until fragrant.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add turkey bones, charred onion, ginger, and toasted spices to a large pot. Cover with 12 cups water.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Skim foam from the surface for clarity.
4. Assemble the Dish: Simmer uncovered for 1 ½ to 2 hours, then strain broth into a clean pot. Season with fish sauce and sugar to taste.
5. Cook to Perfection: Cook rice noodles according to package instructions, drain, and divide into bowls. Top with shredded turkey.
6. Finishing Touches: Ladle hot broth over noodles and turkey. Add herbs, bean sprouts, lime, and chili slices.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Allow everyone to add hoisin, sriracha, or extra lime to their taste.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The broth is the star here: clear, aromatic, and layered with spice. The noodles are silky and soak up every note of flavor. Turkey brings a subtle richness, while herbs and lime brighten each bite. The crunch of bean sprouts adds contrast to the tender noodles and meat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Keep these in mind to make your pho shine:

• Always skim the broth to keep it light and clear.
• Serve toppings on the side for a customizable bowl.
• Use a mix of dark and white turkey meat for depth of flavor.

What to Avoid

A few common pitfalls to sidestep:

• Don’t boil the broth aggressively, it will turn cloudy.
• Avoid overseasoning early, adjust at the end for balance.
• Don’t overcook the noodles, they should be just tender.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 320

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This is the kind of dish that gets better with time. The broth can be made 1–2 days ahead and refrigerated, the flavors deepen beautifully. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze the broth for up to 3 months. Cook noodles fresh when ready to serve.

How to Serve Turkey Pho Recipe

Pho is best enjoyed hot, with toppings served on the side for everyone to add as they like. Pair it with fresh spring rolls for a complete Vietnamese-inspired meal, or simply enjoy it on its own as a warming comfort food.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftover turkey pho can transform into other dishes:

• Use the broth as a base for turkey ramen.
• Toss extra noodles with sesame oil and veggies for a quick stir-fry.
• Turn leftover broth into a hearty soup with dumplings or wontons.

Additional Tips

Keep extra lime wedges at the table, as acidity balances the richness of the broth. For an even clearer broth, strain it twice through cheesecloth. If you like spice, keep fresh chili slices or chili oil on hand for those who crave more heat.

Make It a Showstopper

For presentation, serve pho in oversized white bowls to highlight the vibrant greens and reds of the herbs and chilies. Add a few whole star anise on top as garnish for a restaurant-worthy touch.

Variations to Try

• Make it vegetarian with vegetable broth and tofu.
• Add mushrooms for earthy richness.
• Swap turkey with duck for a deeper, gamier flavor.
• Infuse broth with lemongrass for citrus notes.
• Try whole wheat noodles for a healthier spin.

FAQ’s

Q1. Can I make this pho with raw turkey?
Yes, but it will take longer to cook the meat until tender.

Q2. Can I make the broth in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely, cook on high pressure for 45 minutes.

Q3. Can I skip fish sauce?
You can, but it adds depth, so substitute with soy sauce if needed.

Q4. Do I need to peel ginger?
No, just scrub well before charring.

Q5. Can I freeze the broth?
Yes, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

Q6. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, pho noodles are naturally gluten-free, just check your sauces.

Q7. What herbs are essential?
Thai basil, cilantro, and mint are traditional.

Q8. Can I reheat pho?
Yes, reheat broth separately and pour over fresh noodles.

Q9. Can I use leftover gravy in the broth?
No, it will overpower the delicate pho flavors.

Q10. What if my broth tastes bland?
Adjust with fish sauce, sugar, or a squeeze of lime at the end.

Conclusion

Turkey pho is the perfect marriage of tradition and creativity, a bowl that warms you up while refreshing your senses. It’s a clever way to reinvent leftovers into something that feels brand new. Trust me, once you taste the aromatic broth and slurp those noodles, this recipe will become a post-holiday ritual worth repeating.

watch how to make Turkey Pho Recipe