Vegetarian Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup) - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 lb rice noodles
8 ounces seitan, drained
1/4 cup bean sprouts
1/2 cup shredded napa cabbage
1/2 cup tender greens
1/2 cup fresh basil leaf
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped
3 scallions, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons peanuts (optional)
1 lime, cut into wedges
3 fresh red chili peppers or 3 fresh green chili peppers
salt
fresh ground pepper
broth (use 8 cups)
8 cups clear vegetable stock
3 tablespoons Braggs liquid aminos
8 medium garlic cloves, peeled and chopped coarsely
1 small onion, diced
1 inch gingerroot
2 cinnamon sticks (3 inches each)
2 star anise pods
2 large bay leaves

Preparation

Tear greens into bite-sized pieces. Use both green and white parts of the scallions. Peanuts should bechopped roasted unsalted Seed the chili peppers and cut into rounds.
Make the broth then when it has simmered for about 10 minutes, soak the noodles.
To Soak: Bring 4 qts water to boil. Remove from heat. Add the noodles and soak 15 minutes. Stir occasionally until noodles are pliable and easily separated. Drain and divide into bowls.
Simmer seitan in the broth until heated through. About 4 minutes then remove with a slotted spoon and thin slice into six portions and add your noodles.
Now Place the bean sprouts, cabbage, greens, basil, cilantro, scallions and peanuts on top of the noodles and seitan. Put broth into bowls.
Serve the lime, chili rounds and salt and pepper on the side.
Broth: Makes 8 cups.
Put the stock, braggs, garlic and onion in a stock pot and bring to a boil.
Char the ginger on all sides and add to the stock.
Now add the cinnamon, anise and bay to the broth. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes partially covered.
Remove solids with slotted spoon. Adjust seasonings if needed and return to pot until ready to use in recipe. Keep hot.