Vegetable Pho Soup Recipe Easy and Flavorful Guide

Nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of pho, and this vegetable pho soup recipe brings the traditional Vietnamese classic to a plant-based table. Bursting with layers of aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and vibrant veggies, this soup is a delightful medley of flavors and textures.

Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian or just looking to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, this recipe offers a comforting, nourishing, and wholesome experience that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

The broth is the heart of pho, simmered slowly with spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves that infuse the soup with a rich depth. Paired with fresh herbs, crisp bean sprouts, and tender rice noodles, this vegetable pho is a perfect balance of savory and fresh.

Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it accessible for various dietary needs. This recipe is ideal for cozy nights, healthy lunches, or anytime you crave something light yet flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetable pho soup is a celebration of vibrant, fresh ingredients combined with deeply comforting broth. It’s:

• Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or tofu for added protein.
• Rich in flavor thanks to the aromatic spices gently simmered to create a fragrant broth.
• Healthy and nourishing, packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber from fresh veggies.
• Perfect for meal prep – the broth can be made in advance and stored for busy weeknights.
• Gluten-free and vegan, catering well to diverse dietary preferences without compromising taste.

Ingredients

• 8 cups vegetable broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
• 1 large onion, peeled and halved
• 3-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
• 3 star anise pods
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
• 200g (7 oz) rice noodles (pho noodles or vermicelli)
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms (shiitake or button)
• 1 cup julienned carrots
• 1 cup thinly sliced bok choy or baby spinach
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• Fresh herbs: cilantro, Thai basil, and mint leaves
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1-2 fresh red chilies, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Tofu or tempeh, cubed and pan-fried (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Large stockpot or soup pot
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Large bowls for serving
• Medium saucepan for noodles
• Ladle
• Skillet or frying pan (if using tofu/tempeh)

Instructions

1. Prepare the broth: In a large stockpot, add the vegetable broth along with the onion halves and sliced ginger. Toast the star anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and coriander seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then add them to the pot.
2. Simmer the broth: Bring the broth to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for at least 45 minutes to allow the spices to fully infuse the broth.
3. Strain the broth: Remove the onion, ginger, and whole spices using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Return the clear broth to the pot and stir in the soy sauce and maple syrup. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Cook the rice noodles: In a separate saucepan, cook the rice noodles according to package instructions until tender but still slightly chewy. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
5. Prepare the vegetables: While the broth simmers, slice the mushrooms, julienne the carrots, chop the bok choy or spinach, and slice the green onions and chilies. If using tofu or tempeh, pan-fry in a lightly oiled skillet until golden and crispy on the edges.
6. Assemble the pho bowls: Divide the cooked noodles among serving bowls. Top with mushrooms, carrots, bok choy/spinach, bean sprouts, green onions, fresh herbs, chilies, and tofu/tempeh if using.
7. Finish with broth: Ladle the hot, fragrant broth over the noodles and vegetables. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness right before serving.
8. Serve immediately: Offer additional garnishes like extra herbs, lime wedges, hoisin sauce, or sriracha for personalized flavor.

Tips & Variations

“To get the best flavor from your broth, don’t rush the simmering process — slow and steady allows the spices to fully develop.”

• Make it gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Boost protein: Add crispy tofu, tempeh, or cooked edamame beans.
• Spice it up: Include fresh sliced jalapeños or drizzle chili oil for extra heat.
• Vegetable swaps: Try adding baby corn, snow peas, or zucchini ribbons for variety.
• Richness: Stir in a spoonful of vegan miso paste or a splash of coconut milk for a creamier broth.
• Meal prep tip: Make the broth a day ahead to deepen the flavors and save time on busy days.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegetable pho shines best when served fresh and hot, accompanied by a variety of garnishes. Offer bowls of fresh herbs like cilantro, Thai basil, and mint for guests to customize their bowls.

Lime wedges add a zesty brightness that enhances the broth’s flavors.

Serve alongside some crispy spring rolls or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete Vietnamese-inspired meal. If you love noodles, try pairing this pho with Carrots Vegan Sushi Rolls Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or explore more noodle dishes in our Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals collection.

Conclusion

This vegetable pho soup recipe is a wonderful gateway to exploring Vietnamese flavors in a wholesome, plant-based way. Its beautifully layered broth, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs come together to create a bowl that’s both comforting and vibrant.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or sharing with family and friends, this soup is sure to please and nourish.

Remember, the beauty of pho lies in its flexibility—you can easily adapt the ingredients based on what’s in your kitchen or seasonally available. For more delicious vegetarian inspiration, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or explore hearty options in Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious bowl of vegetable pho!

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