This fragrant, deeply warming soup draws on the soul of Vietnamese pho — charred aromatics, a long-simmered bone broth, and a table full of fresh toppings — without a single ingredient that raises cross-contamination concerns for nut-sensitive households. Charring the onion, garlic, and ginger directly in a dry pot before anything else goes in is the move that gives the broth its smoky, complex backbone, and the combination of turmeric, Ceylon cinnamon, and whole cloves layers in that signature pho warmth. Coconut aminos stand in for soy sauce, adding a gentle savory depth while keeping the ingredient list clean and straightforward. Instead of rice noodles, spiralized zucchini ribbons soak up the hot broth and turn just tender-crisp in the bowl, making this a lighter but still deeply satisfying meal. The finishing spread of scallions, cilantro, Thai basil, bean sprouts, and fresh lime wedges lets everyone customize their bowl at the table, which is half the fun. It's the kind of recipe that looks and tastes like a weekend project but comes together in a single pot with honest, whole ingredients you can feel good about.
About Fig
Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
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.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!