Vegan cream of broccoli soup is a comforting, creamy, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for anyone looking for a delicious plant-based alternative to the traditional dairy-filled version. With wholesome ingredients like broccoli, cashews, and vegetable broth, this soup delivers all the richness and flavor you crave while being completely dairy-free. Whether you’re following a vegan diet or simply seeking a healthier option, this vegan cream of broccoli soup is sure to satisfy.
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, it’s a nutrient-dense meal that will keep you feeling full and energized. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to prepare, making it a go-to comfort food for any day of the week.
If you’re looking for more delicious plant-based recipes, check out Healthy Oats Recipe for a nutritious start to your day.
What is Vegan Cream of Broccoli Soup?
Vegan cream of broccoli soup is a dairy-free version of the traditional creamy broccoli soup. The key to achieving that smooth, rich texture without dairy lies in the use of cashews. When soaked and blended, cashews create a silky smooth base that mimics the creaminess of heavy cream or cheese, without any animal products.
The ingredients are simple: broccoli, potatoes, carrots, and onions are cooked together in vegetable broth, then blended until smooth. The result is a velvety, flavorful soup that’s as comforting as it is nourishing.
For those interested in adding more plant-based meals to their routine, you might also enjoy Sprouts Salad, a light, refreshing dish that pairs well with any soup.
Key Ingredients for Vegan Cream of Broccoli Soup
The beauty of this soup lies in its healthy ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to create this delicious, creamy vegan dish:
- Broccoli: The star of the soup. Packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, broccoli provides essential nutrients that support your immune system, digestion, and overall health.
- Cashews: These are the secret ingredient that gives the soup its creamy texture. Cashews are rich in healthy fats, protein, and magnesium, which help support heart health and provide energy. They also offer a subtle, rich flavor that blends beautifully into the soup.
- Potatoes: Potatoes are a great source of vitamin C and potassium. They help thicken the soup and add a creamy consistency, making them a perfect addition to vegan cream soups.
- Carrots: These add natural sweetness and a burst of color. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, supporting eye health and immune function.
- Onions and Garlic: These vegetables provide the savory base for the soup, adding depth and flavor. They’re rich in antioxidants and sulfur compounds that support overall health.
- Vegetable Broth: The base of the soup, vegetable broth brings everything together with a rich, savory taste. Using a good-quality broth is essential for creating a flavorful soup.
- Herbs & Spices (Dill, Lemon, Apple Cider Vinegar): These add freshness and brightness to the soup, balancing out the richness of the cashews and potatoes. Lemon juice and apple cider vinegar help cut through the creaminess, while dill adds a refreshing herbal note.
How to Make Vegan Cream of Broccoli Soup
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by chopping the broccoli into small florets. Don’t forget to slice the broccoli stalks, as they add flavor and texture to the soup. Peel and dice the potatoes and carrots. Soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to ensure they blend smoothly.
2. Cook the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and celery (if using) and sauté them until they soften, about 5 minutes. Next, add the carrots, potatoes, and broccoli. Stir well to combine, and then pour in the vegetable broth until the vegetables are covered. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Blend the Soup
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the soaked cashews, dill, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar to the pot. Use an immersion blender to blend everything until smooth. For a chunkier soup, blend it less or pulse the blender a few times to leave some vegetable pieces intact.
4. Taste and Adjust
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to balance the flavors. If the soup is too thick, add more vegetable broth to reach the desired consistency.
Once the soup is smooth, creamy, and seasoned to your liking, it’s ready to serve!
Tips for Perfect Vegan Cream of Broccoli Soup
- Adjust the Texture: If the soup is too thick, add more vegetable broth or water to thin it out. If you prefer a creamier texture, add an extra handful of cashews or a potato and blend again.
- Roast the Broccoli: To bring out a deeper, richer flavor, roast some of the broccoli florets before adding them to the soup. This adds a smoky, caramelized note that complements the creaminess of the soup.
- Toppings: Top your soup with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, a few croutons for crunch, or some extra roasted broccoli florets for texture and flavor.
- Spice it Up: If you like your soup with a little heat, add chili flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup as it cooks. A dash of hot sauce can also provide some extra kick.
- Lighter Version: To make a lighter version of the soup, reduce the amount of cashews and potatoes and blend in silken tofu for creaminess without the fat.
Variations on Vegan Cream of Broccoli Soup
- Additional Veggies: You can add other vegetables like spinach, cauliflower, or sweet potatoes to change up the flavor profile and add more nutrients. These ingredients blend well and offer a unique twist on the classic broccoli soup.
- Spicy Version: For a spicy twist, consider adding jalapeños or serrano peppers during the cooking process. You can also add cayenne pepper or chipotle powder for more intense heat.
- Cheesy Flavor: If you’re craving a cheesy taste, stir in some nutritional yeast or your favorite vegan cheese during the blending process. Nutritional yeast gives the soup a savory, cheesy flavor without any dairy.
- Low-Fat Option: For a lighter soup, cut back on the cashews and potatoes and replace them with silken tofu for a creamy, lower-fat option.
Health Benefits of Vegan Cream of Broccoli Soup
This soup is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Here’s why:
- Broccoli: Rich in vitamins C, K, and A, and antioxidants, broccoli supports immune health, bone health, and overall wellness.
- Cashews: High in healthy fats, magnesium, and protein, cashews help promote heart health and provide lasting energy.
- Potatoes: With vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, potatoes support immune function, heart health, and digestive health.
- Carrots: Packed with beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, carrots are excellent for eye health and immune function.
By making your own vegan cream of broccoli soup, you ensure that you’re using whole, nutritious ingredients without any preservatives or additives often found in store-bought versions.
For more healthy plant-based meals, check out this Healthy Oats Recipe or enjoy a refreshing Sprouts Salad alongside your creamy soup.
Final Thoughts
Vegan cream of broccoli soup is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for anyone looking for a creamy, comforting meal without the dairy. It’s a nutrient-packed soup that’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re vegan or not, this soup is a great way to enjoy the benefits of plant-based eating while still indulging in a creamy, satisfying dish