Fake Pho

Pho is something that even in a relatively vegetarian-friendly city I've had a hard time finding a vegetarian version out at restaurants. The broth takes a little bit of work but it is worth it for all the flavor you'll get. I like my version pretty heavy on the broth but you could use less for something that is more noodley. This is definitely not even close to being authentic, which is why I called it "fake pho" but I think it is still delicious.

Ingredients:

1 cup veggie stock
1 cup water
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 teaspoons rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon brown sugar
4-5 whole black peppercorns
1/2 a cinnamon stick
1-2 whole cloves
1 big handful flat rice noodles
3 baby carrots, julienned
4-5 bell pepper strips, cut in half
1/4 cup bean sprouts
5-6 florets broccoli
2 green onions, sliced
1 big handful cilantro, chopped
1/2 lime

Directions:

In a medium sauce pan boil together the first 10 ingredients. Reduce to a simmer and allow it to cook for 15ish minutes. Strain out the peppercorns, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Add rice noodles, carrots, bell pepper, bean sprouts, broccoli and cook until the rice noodles are tender (check your package for how long it will take but it should only be a few minutes). Remove from heat and portion into bowls. Top with green onions, cilantro, and lime wedges.