Veggie Pho Soup Recipe Easy, Healthy, and Delicious

There’s something truly magical about a steaming bowl of pho, especially when it’s packed with vibrant vegetables and fragrant herbs. This veggie pho soup recipe offers all the cozy comfort and authentic flavors of traditional Vietnamese pho, but in a wholesome, plant-based version that’s perfect for vegetarians and vegans alike.

Bursting with an aromatic broth made from fresh spices and umami-rich ingredients, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re new to pho or a seasoned fan looking for a lighter option, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home, allowing you to customize it with your favorite veggies and herbs. Ideal for chilly evenings, quick dinners, or anytime you crave a soul-soothing bowl of goodness.

Dive in and discover how simple and delicious veggie pho can be!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This veggie pho soup is a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and nutrients that will satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body. Here’s why it stands out:

• Rich, flavorful broth: Made by simmering fresh spices and vegetables for hours, creating a depth that rivals traditional pho.
• Wholesome ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies, rice noodles, and herbs to make it light yet filling.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite vegetables or add tofu for extra protein.
• Vegan and gluten-free: Perfect for various dietary preferences.
• Comforting and nutritious: A warm bowl that boosts your immune system and lifts your spirits.

Ingredients

• 8 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 large onion, halved
• 4-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
• 3 whole star anise pods
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 cloves
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or brown sugar
• 200g rice noodles (pho noodles or thin rice vermicelli)
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (shiitake or button)
• 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1 cup bok choy or spinach leaves
• 1 block firm tofu, cut into cubes (optional)
• Fresh herbs: Thai basil, cilantro, mint (about ½ cup each)
• 2 green onions, sliced thinly
• 1-2 fresh red chilies, sliced (optional)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Large stockpot or soup pot
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth (for broth)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Large bowl (for soaking noodles)
• Ladle
• Soup bowls
• Chopping utensils for herbs and veggies

Instructions

1. Prepare the broth base: Place the halved onion and ginger on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until slightly charred. This step adds a smoky depth to the broth.
2. Simmer spices and vegetables: In a large stockpot, add the vegetable broth, charred onion, ginger, star anise, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for at least 45 minutes to 1 hour. The longer, the better for flavor development.
3. Strain the broth: Using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the broth into another pot or large bowl to remove the solids. Return the clear broth to the pot.
4. Season the broth: Stir in soy sauce (or tamari), maple syrup (or brown sugar), salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Cook the rice noodles: Soak or boil the rice noodles according to package instructions until tender, then drain and set aside.
6. Sauté the tofu and vegetables: If using tofu, lightly pan-fry the cubes until golden on all sides and set aside. In the same pan, briefly sauté mushrooms and carrots just until tender but still crisp.
7. Assemble the pho bowls: Divide the cooked noodles into serving bowls. Top with sautéed mushrooms, carrots, tofu, bok choy or spinach, bean sprouts, green onions, and fresh herbs.
8. Pour hot broth: Ladle the steaming broth over the assembled bowls, allowing the greens to wilt slightly.
9. Add final touches: Serve with lime wedges and sliced fresh chilies on the side for added zest and spice. Encourage guests to squeeze lime and add chilies as desired.

Tips & Variations

“For an even richer broth, roast additional vegetables like carrots and celery alongside the onion and ginger before simmering.”

• Make it gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Add protein: Swap tofu for tempeh or seitan for a different texture.
• Extra umami boost: Add dried shiitake mushrooms to the broth while simmering.
• Spice it up: Include a few slices of fresh ginger or jalapeño in each bowl for more heat.
• Herb variety: Try adding culantro or fresh Thai chili leaves if available.
• Slow cooker adaptation: Combine all broth ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your veggie pho soup as a light lunch or a comforting dinner. Pair it with a side of crispy spring rolls or fresh summer rolls for a full Vietnamese-inspired meal.

A side of steamed edamame or a simple cucumber salad also complements the vibrant flavors beautifully.

For a cozy night in, serve your pho with a hot cup of jasmine tea or a refreshing iced green tea.

Looking for more delicious plant-based meal ideas? Check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or explore Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals for wholesome inspirations.

Conclusion

This veggie pho soup recipe is a beautiful celebration of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and comforting warmth. It’s easy to prepare yet impressive in flavor, making it a perfect choice for anyone craving a healthy, plant-based meal that feels indulgent.

The slow-simmered broth infused with ginger, star anise, and cinnamon delivers an authentic taste while the colorful medley of vegetables and herbs adds freshness and texture.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this pho will surely become a favorite. Don’t forget to personalize it with your preferred veggies or extra protein sources, making each bowl uniquely yours.

For more flavorful and wholesome recipes, you might also enjoy our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend or explore Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals for dairy-free delights.

Happy cooking and bon appétit!

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