Indulge in this easy-to-make soup. Perfect for a cozy night and is a delicious and nutritious plant based alternative to this comfort food classic.
One evening, after a particularly long day at work, I came home feeling tired and drained. I wanted something warm and comforting for dinner, but didn't have the energy to put together a complicated meal. So, I rummaged through my fridge and found a head of broccoli that I had purchased earlier in the week.
Remembering a recipe for creamy broccoli soup that I had made before I went vegan, I decided to give it a try. I gathered the ingredients and got to work. As I stirred the soup on the stove, I was struck by how easy it was to make. The creamy texture and rich aroma of the soup were both comforting and invigorating.
Finally, the soup was ready. I ladled it into a bowl and sat down at my kitchen table. I took a spoonful of the soup and was pleasantly surprised by how delicious it was. The creamy texture of the soup and the earthy flavor of the broccoli worked together perfectly, creating a warm and satisfying dish.
As I ate, I felt a sense of calm wash over me. The stresses of the day began to fade away as I savored each spoonful of the soup. By the time I finished my bowl, I felt re-energized and ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
From that day on, creamy broccoli soup has become one of my go-to comfort foods. Whenever I need a quick and easy meal that will fill me up and nourish my body, I know exactly what to make. I even started experimenting with different variations of the soup, adding in other vegetables and spices to create new and exciting flavor combinations.
For me, the simple act of making and enjoying a bowl of soup had become a source of comfort and joy. I knew that, no matter what life threw my way, I could always count on the soothing power of a warm bowl of creamy broccoli soup to help me get through it.
My experience making the soup vegan highlighted how simple substitutions can lead to more inclusive and compassionate cooking. With a little bit of creativity and experimentation, I found that I could make delicious and comforting meals that were better for my health and the planet. By exploring vegan alternatives to my favorite recipes, I was able to expand my culinary horizons and discover new ways to enjoy food that was both good for me and good for the world.
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that is well-known for its numerous health benefits. It is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help boost your immune system, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation. One of the most delicious and comforting ways to enjoy broccoli is in a creamy soup. In this article, we'll explore the health benefits of broccoli and show you how to make a delicious vegan creamy broccoli soup that's perfect for a cozy night in.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF BROCCOLI
Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse that contains high levels of vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and dietary fiber. It is also a good source of calcium, iron, and potassium. In addition to its high nutrient content, broccoli contains phytochemicals that have been linked to various health benefits. These phytochemicals include sulforaphane, kaempferol, and quercetin, which have been shown to reduce the risk of cancer, improve heart health, and boost brain function.
One of the most well-known health benefits of broccoli is its cancer-fighting properties. Studies have shown that consuming broccoli can reduce the risk of several types of cancer, including lung, colon, and breast cancer. This is due to the presence of sulforaphane, a compound that has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death.
Broccoli is also an excellent source of dietary fiber, which can help improve digestion and reduce the risk of digestive disorders such as constipation and irritable bowel syndrome. Fiber also helps to reduce cholesterol levels and improve heart health by binding to bile acids in the digestive tract and preventing their absorption into the bloodstream.
WHAT ARE THE ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS IN IT?
This recipe uses cashews as the base for a rich and creamy dip. Cashews are a great source of healthy fats and proteins, making them an excellent food source for vegans (and non-vegans too!). Additionally, the spinach and artichokes used in this recipe are both packed with vitamins and minerals, including iron, vitamin C, and fiber.
BROCCOLI: There's no broccoli soup without broccoli :-) As mentioned above, it has lots of medicinal properties and adds an earthy flavor.
COCONUT MILK: Adds a rich, creamy texture to the soup without the use of dairy. It also has a subtle, sweet flavor that compliments the earthy taste of the broccoli, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
NUTRITIONAL YEAST: Enhances its flavor and add a nutty, cheesy taste to the dish.
VEGGIE BROTH: Acts as the base for the soup and of course adds nutrients and flavor.
Broccoli is a cool-weather crop that is typically in season during the fall, winter, and early spring months. In most parts of the world, broccoli is planted in the summer and harvested in the cooler months of the year.
The exact timing of broccoli's season can vary depending on the region and climate. In general, broccoli seeds are typically planted in early spring, which means that broccoli is usually ready for harvest in the late summer or early fall.
Some varieties of broccoli can be planted in the late summer or early fall for a winter or early spring harvest. In regions with mild winters, broccoli can be planted in the fall and harvested throughout the winter months.
It's important to note that broccoli can be grown year-round in some regions, especially those with mild climates. While the peak season for broccoli is generally in the fall and winter months when the cooler temperatures and shorter days provide optimal growing conditions for the plant.
When buying broccoli, it's important to look for fresh, crisp, and vibrant-looking heads. The florets should be tightly packed and deep green in color, with no yellowing or browning. It's also a good idea to choose broccoli that is in season, as it will be more flavorful, nutritious, and affordable than broccoli that has been shipped from a different region or grown out of season.
WHAT ARE DIFFERENT VARIATIONS TO THIS DIP?
Broccoli and potato soup: Add some diced potatoes to the soup to make it heartier and more filling. You can also try blending the soup with some potatoes to make it even creamier.
Broccoli and cauliflower soup: Add some cauliflower florets to the soup for an extra boost of nutrients and flavor. You can also try blending the soup with some cauliflower to make it even creamier.
Broccoli and spinach soup: Add some fresh spinach leaves to the soup for a pop of color and extra nutrition. You can also try blending the soup with some spinach to make it even more vibrant.
HOW MANY PEOPLE DOES THIS SERVE?
This vegan creamy broccoli soup recipe yields about 4-6 servings, depending on the serving size. You can adjust the ingredients as needed to make more or less soup, depending on your needs. If you're serving the soup as a main dish, you may want to make a larger batch or serve it with some bread or a salad on the side to make it more filling. Alternatively, if you're serving the soup as a side dish or starter, you may only need a smaller batch.
HOW DOES IT STORE?
This vegan creamy broccoli soup recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. However, it's important to note that the texture and flavor of the soup may change slightly after being refrigerated.
The soup may thicken up as it cools, so you may need to add a bit of water or vegetable broth when reheating to bring it back to its original consistency. You can also adjust the seasoning as needed, adding a bit more salt, pepper, or other herbs and spices to taste.
If you plan on storing the soup for more than a few days, it's a good idea to freeze it instead. To freeze the soup, let it cool to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container. Label the container with the date and contents, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy the soup, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Again, you may need to add a bit of water or vegetable broth to adjust the consistency.
It's worth noting that the texture of the soup may change slightly after being frozen and thawed. The broccoli may become a bit softer, and the soup may separate a bit.
Creamy Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup
List of Ingredients
1 cup Chickpea Flour
1/4 cup Olive oil
5 cups Broccoli heads, chopped*
2/3 cups Yellow onion, diced
2 Garlic cloves, minced
4 cup Veggie broth
2 cup Plant milk, unsweetened
3/4 14 oz Coconut milk, full fat
1/4 cup Nutritional Yeast
1/2-1 tsp Salt
Directions
In a large pot, heat olive oil, over medium-high heat Add the onion and saute for 3 minutes until slightly translucent. Then add garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
Add broccoli florets to the pot and stir. Cook for about 5 minutes, Sprinkle flour and combine with veggies.
Begin to slowly add the plant based milk slowly,and then the broth. As you pour stir constantly. This will prevent the flour from clumping.
Finally add the coconut milk and the nutritional yeast, stirring in until the nutritional yeast is fully dissolved.
Simmer on medium low heat for about 15 minutes or until you can easily pierce the broccoli.
If you’re looking for a chunkier soup then puree ½ the soup in a blender, otherwise pour about 2/3-3/4 of the soup for a smoother, pureed soup.
NOTES:
* You will need a blender or large high speed processor, plus a large pot for this recipe
Hope you love making this recipe as much as I do! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think or if you have any questions. Take a picture of your beautiful creation and tag me at @christina.ahimsa and @compassionatefilledlife, to have it featured for our community.