Vegetarian Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)

Recipe View 5 mins In a large stockpot, combine the vegetable stock, onion, soy sauce, garlic, cinnamon sticks, ground ginger, star anise, and bay leaves. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 40 mins Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and gently simmer for at least 30 to 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful your broth will be. (30-45 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove and discard the solids (onion, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and bay leaves) from the broth. Keep the flavorful broth hot over low heat. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 9 mins While the broth simmers, prepare the rice noodles. Place the noodles in a large bowl and cover them with boiling water. Let them soak until they are softened and pliable, about 8 to 10 minutes. (8-10 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins Drain the softened noodles thoroughly and rinse them under cold water to prevent sticking. Divide the noodles evenly among 6 individual serving bowls. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 12 mins Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add the tofu slices in a single layer, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the tofu until it is golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 6 minutes per side. (12 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins Gently add the fried tofu and enoki mushrooms to the simmering broth. Allow them to heat through, about 5 minutes. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins Carefully transfer the tofu and mushrooms to the serving bowls, arranging them artfully over the noodles. Garnish generously with sliced scallions and chopped cilantro. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Ladle the hot, aromatic broth over the noodles, tofu, and mushrooms in each bowl. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Serve immediately with lime wedges, jalapeno pepper slices (if using), fresh mung bean sprouts, and torn Thai basil leaves on the side, allowing each person to customize their bowl to their liking. (2 minutes)