Black Pepper Free Ginger & Turmeric Chicken Pho-Style Soup
Warm, deeply aromatic, and built around a golden broth that practically glows in the bowl, this soup delivers all the soul-satisfying comfort of a classic pho without a single crack of black pepper in sight. The flavor foundation comes from charring onion, garlic, and fresh ginger directly in a dry pot — a technique that coaxes out a smoky, caramelized depth that makes the broth taste like it simmered all day. Ground turmeric, Ceylon cinnamon, and whole cloves carry the warmth from there, so the spice profile is rich and layered without any of the sharp heat that makes so many broth-based soups off-limits. Coconut aminos and a splash of apple cider vinegar round out the broth with a savory, slightly tangy finish that keeps every sip interesting. Instead of rice noodles, spiralized zucchini ribbons go straight into the bowl and soften just enough when the hot broth is ladled over — no extra cooking step, no gummy noodles. Fresh cilantro, Thai basil, scallions, and a squeeze of lime bring brightness and contrast to every bite. It's the kind of bowl that feels like a project but comes together with straightforward technique and ingredients you can easily verify are safe.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the broth
- 2 lb bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
- 8 cups chicken bone broth
- 1 medium yellow onion, halved
- 1 head garlic, halved crosswise
- 3-inch piece fresh ginger, halved lengthwise
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp ground ceylon cinnamon
- 3 whole cloves
- 2 tbsp coconut aminos
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp fine sea salt, plus more to taste
For the bowls
- 3 medium zucchini, spiralized or peeled into wide ribbons
- 4 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh bean sprouts (optional)
- ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
- ½ cup fresh thai basil or regular basil leaves
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
- 1
Set a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Place the onion halves and garlic head cut-side down directly in the dry pot, along with the ginger halves. Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes, until the cut surfaces are deeply charred and fragrant.
- 2
Add the chicken pieces, bone broth, turmeric, ground ginger, Ceylon cinnamon, and cloves to the pot. Pour in enough water to fully submerge the chicken if needed (up to 2 additional cups). Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a steady simmer.
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