Veg Pho Soup Recipe Easy, Flavorful, and Authentic Guide

Vietnamese pho is a beloved noodle soup known for its aromatic broth and fresh herbs. While traditional pho often features beef or chicken, this veg pho soup recipe offers a wholesome, plant-based alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Perfect for cozy evenings or light lunches, this vibrant soup combines a fragrant vegetable broth with rice noodles, fresh vegetables, and classic pho spices. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to enjoy a nourishing bowl of comfort food, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

The rich broth simmered with star anise, cinnamon, and ginger creates a depth of flavor that’s both soothing and invigorating.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients and easy to customize with your favorite veggies and toppings. With clear instructions and a few simple ingredients, you’ll be able to craft this authentic-tasting veg pho at home.

Ready to warm your soul with a bowl of this aromatic goodness? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This veg pho soup is a perfect blend of health and flavor. The broth is simmered slowly to extract deep aromas from spices and vegetables, creating a complex yet light base that’s naturally vegan and gluten-free.

It’s a comforting meal that’s also low in calories but rich in vitamins and minerals thanks to the fresh herbs and vegetables.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility — you can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or add tofu for extra protein. Plus, it’s quick to prepare once the broth is ready, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

If you enjoy exploring international flavors or want a new, nourishing soup to add to your rotation, this is the recipe for you.

Ingredients

• 8 cups vegetable broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
• 1 large onion, halved
• 3-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
• 3 star anise pods
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole cloves
• 1 tbsp coriander seeds
• 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or sugar
• 200g rice noodles (pho noodles or vermicelli)
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (shiitake or button mushrooms)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup baby spinach or bok choy
• Fresh bean sprouts, for garnish
• Fresh herbs: cilantro, Thai basil, and mint leaves
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• Optional: sliced jalapeños or chili flakes for heat

Equipment

• Large stockpot for making the broth
• Strainer or cheesecloth to strain broth
• Large bowl for soaking noodles
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Soup bowls for serving
• Chopsticks or forks for eating

Instructions

1. Prepare the broth base: Place the halved onion and sliced ginger on a baking sheet and roast under the broiler for 5-7 minutes until slightly charred. This adds a smoky depth to the broth.
2. Toast the spices: In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the star anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and coriander seeds for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
3. Simmer the broth: In a large stockpot, combine the vegetable broth, roasted onion, ginger, and toasted spices. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add soy sauce and maple syrup. Let simmer for at least 45 minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Strain the broth: Remove the solids by straining the broth through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another pot. Discard the solids and keep the broth warm on low heat.
5. Prepare the noodles: Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 20 minutes or according to package instructions until softened. Drain well.
6. Cook the vegetables: Add sliced mushrooms and shredded carrots to the broth during the last 5 minutes of simmering to soften them slightly without losing their texture.
7. Assemble the pho bowls: Divide the softened noodles into serving bowls. Ladle the hot broth and vegetables over the noodles.
8. Add fresh toppings: Garnish with baby spinach or bok choy, bean sprouts, green onions, and fresh herbs like cilantro, Thai basil, and mint. Squeeze lime wedges over the soup and add sliced jalapeños or chili flakes if desired for a spicy kick.
9. Serve immediately: Pho is best enjoyed hot and fresh. Encourage diners to mix their fresh herbs and toppings into the soup for a burst of flavor.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For a richer broth, you can add dried shiitake mushrooms during simmering and remove before serving. They add an earthy umami flavor.

Variation: Add cubes of firm tofu or tempeh for extra protein. You can pan-fry them for a crispy texture before adding to the bowl.

Substitution: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version. Adjust saltiness to taste.

Make it ahead: The broth can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated; just reheat and assemble when ready.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve your veg pho soup with extra lime wedges and hoisin sauce or sriracha on the side for guests who want more tang or heat. Fresh spring rolls or a light cucumber salad complement the meal beautifully.

For a heartier meal, add pan-fried tofu cubes or vegan meat substitutes. Pair it with a refreshing iced jasmine tea or a crisp white wine for a perfect balance.

Looking for more exciting plant-based dishes? Check out these recipes:

• Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners
• Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore
• Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas

Conclusion

This veg pho soup recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic Vietnamese dish in a plant-based form that’s both nourishing and packed with flavor. The slow-simmered broth infused with aromatic spices, paired with fresh herbs and crisp vegetables, creates a harmonious balance that warms your body and soul.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a quick solo meal, this recipe is simple to make, versatile, and sure to impress.

Experiment with your favorite toppings and vegetables to make it uniquely yours. If you love exploring vegan and vegetarian recipes from around the world, be sure to bookmark this one and come back to it often.

For more delicious, healthy recipes, visit our Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners and Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore pages. Happy cooking and bon appétit!

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