This nourishing low-carbohydrate vegetable pho is perfect for those managing high ketone levels in the urine.
Packed with fresh, colorful vegetables and infused with aromatic spices, this dish offers a light yet satisfying meal that supports a ketogenic lifestyle.
Using zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice noodles keeps the carb count low, while still delivering on flavor and texture.
Recipe Benefits
- This dish is keto-friendly and rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- The variety of vegetables provides essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber, promoting gut health and immune function.
- The ginger and spices add anti-inflammatory properties, while the low-carb content helps maintain ketosis, making it ideal for those following a ketogenic diet.

Ingredients
For 4 servings:
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 large white onion, peeled and quartered
- 3-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and diced
- 4 star-anise pods
- 3 whole cloves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 cardamom pods
- 2 teaspoons whole coriander seeds
- 8 cups low-sodium vegetable stock
- 8 ounces shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 2 heads baby bok choy, halved
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1⁄2 cup bean sprouts
- 1 lime, quartered
- 2 scallions, sliced
Instructions
- Cut off the ends of the zucchini and use a spiralizer or vegetable peeler to create noodles. Season with salt, place in a colander, and let sit for 20 to 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a Dutch oven or large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and ginger, sautéing for about 7 minutes until slightly charred.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add star anise, cloves, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, and coriander seeds. Stir for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable stock and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Sauté the shiitake mushrooms for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, then set aside.
- In the same pan, add bok choy, carrot, and broccoli. Sauté for 7 to 8 minutes, then add snow peas and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Remove the onion, ginger, and spices from the stock with a hand strainer. Add the sautéed mushrooms and vegetables, except for the zucchini noodles, to the stock.
- Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the zucchini noodles and toss with tongs for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
- To serve, ladle the hot vegetable broth and cooked vegetables into bowls. Add generous zucchini noodles and top with bean sprouts, lime quarters, and scallions.

Nutritional Information
Per serving:
- Calories: 206 kcal
- Protein: 7.5 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
Based on Nutrisurvey
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