How Many Calories Are In Beef Pho? Find Out Here!
If you’re a fan of Vietnamese cuisine, you’ve likely indulged in a bowl of steaming beef pho. But if you’re counting calories, you may wonder: “How many calories does beef pho have?”
The answer depends on several factors, including the portion size, the type of noodles used, and the toppings added. However, a typical bowl of beef pho contains around 300-400 calories.
Calorie Breakdown
- Noodles: Rice noodles, the main ingredient in pho, are relatively low in calories, with a serving of 1 cup cooked noodles containing around 200 calories.
- Beef: The amount of calories in beef pho varies depending on the cut of beef used. Leaner cuts, such as flank steak, have fewer calories than fattier cuts, such as brisket. A 4-ounce serving of flank steak contains around 100 calories.
- Broth: The broth in pho is typically made from beef bones and spices. It is relatively low in calories, with a 1-cup serving containing around 50 calories.
- Toppings: Common toppings for beef pho include scallions, cilantro, bean sprouts, and lime wedges. These toppings add very few calories to the dish.
Portion Size and Calories
The portion size of your beef pho can significantly impact the calorie count. A small bowl of pho typically contains around 300 calories, while a large bowl can contain 400-500 calories or more.
Noodles vs. Rice Vermicelli
Beef pho is traditionally made with rice noodles, but you can also opt for rice vermicelli noodles. Rice vermicelli noodles are thinner and have a slightly different texture than rice noodles. They are also slightly lower in calories, with a 1-cup serving containing around 180 calories.
Toppings and Calories
While the broth and noodles are the main components of beef pho, the toppings can also add calories. Common toppings include:
- Scallions: 1 tablespoon contains around 3 calories
- Cilantro: 1 tablespoon contains around 2 calories
- Bean sprouts: 1 cup contains around 15 calories
- Lime wedges: 1 wedge contains around 5 calories
Low-Calorie Pho Options
If you’re looking for a lower-calorie version of beef pho, consider the following tips:
- Choose leaner beef: Opt for flank steak or eye of round steak instead of brisket or rib eye steak.
- Use less noodles: Reduce the amount of noodles in your bowl by half.
- Skip the toppings: Toppings like chili oil and hoisin sauce can add extra calories.
- Order a small bowl: A small bowl of pho typically contains fewer calories than a large bowl.
Wrap-Up: Enjoying Beef Pho in Moderation
Beef pho is a delicious and nutritious Vietnamese dish that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet. By being mindful of the portion size, noodle type, and toppings, you can control the calorie count and enjoy this flavorful dish without overindulging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many calories are in a bowl of pho with chicken?
A: A bowl of chicken pho typically contains around 250-350 calories.
Q: Is pho a good source of protein?
A: Yes, pho is a good source of protein, with a typical bowl containing around 30-40 grams of protein.
Q: Can I eat pho on a keto diet?
A: No, pho is not a keto-friendly dish as it contains a significant amount of carbohydrates from the noodles.
Q: Is pho gluten-free?
A: Traditional pho is not gluten-free as it contains wheat noodles. However, you can find gluten-free pho made with rice noodles.
Q: How do I make pho less salty?
A: You can reduce the saltiness of pho by adding more water to the broth or by using less fish sauce when preparing the broth.