Low Carb Brisket Pho

Savor the rich flavors of a classic Vietnamese pho with a healthy twist in this Low Carb Brisket Pho recipe—perfect for those seeking a keto-friendly or gluten-free alternative. Slow-simmered for six hours, the aromatic beef broth is infused with charred onions, ginger, star anise, cloves, and a hint of cinnamon, creating a deeply fragrant and comforting base. Tender, thinly sliced brisket and guilt-free kelp noodles replace traditional rice noodles, making this dish both satisfying and low in carbs. Topped with fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, and mint, along with crisp bean sprouts, spicy jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime, each bowl is a vibrant, customizable experience. Whether you're on a low-carb journey or simply looking for a wholesome meal, this pho recipe balances bold flavors and nutrition effortlessly.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:360 mins

Total Time:380 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 pounds brisket
• 1 large onion
• 4 inches ginger
• 2 pieces star anise
• 5 pieces cloves
• 1 piece cinnamon stick
• 3 tablespoons fish sauce
• 8 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 4 cups water
• 1 tablespoon xylitol or other sweetener
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 2 whole limes
• 1 cup fresh herbs (cilantro, basil, mint)
• 2 cups bean sprouts
• 2 whole jalapenos
• 1 package kelp noodles
• 4 stalks green onions

Directions

Step 1

Begin by preparing the aromatics. Slice the onion in half and halve the ginger lengthwise.

Step 2

Char the onion and ginger over an open flame or under a broiler until they are slightly blackened on all sides.

Step 3

In a large pot, add the charred onion, ginger, beef brisket, star anise, cloves, cinnamon stick, and black peppercorns.

Step 4

Pour in the beef broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 5

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the broth simmer gently. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.

Step 6

Simmer the broth uncovered for about 6 hours, ensuring the brisket turns tender. Add water as needed to keep the brisket submerged.

Step 7

After simmering, remove the brisket from the pot and set it aside. Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve into a large bowl, discarding the solids.

Step 8

Return the strained broth to the pot. Add fish sauce, xylitol, and salt to the broth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 9

Slice the brisket thinly against the grain and set aside.

Step 10

Prepare the kelp noodles according to package instructions, typically rinsing and cutting to length.

Step 11

For serving, divide the noodles into bowls, top with sliced brisket, and ladle hot broth over the top.

Step 12

Garnish generously with bean sprouts, sliced green onions, jalapeno slices, and fresh herbs.

Step 13

Serve with lime wedges on the side for an added zest to the soup.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(4893.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3168.7

Total Fat 178.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 66.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.1g
Cholesterol 961.6mg	0%
Sodium 8079.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 108.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 26.1g	0%
Total Sugars 26.4g
Protein 299.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1028.9mg	0%
Iron 41.2mg	0%
Potassium 5228.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 49.6%

Protein: 37.0%

Carbs: 13.4%