Best Veggie Broth Recipe for Rich and Flavorful Soups

There’s something magical about a homemade vegetable broth that simply can’t be matched by store-bought versions. Not only does it fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma, but it also serves as a versatile base for countless recipes.

Whether you’re simmering a hearty soup, crafting a savory risotto, or making a flavorful sauce, this rich and nourishing veggie broth will elevate your dishes to new heights. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to reduce food waste by using leftover vegetable scraps and peels, turning them into liquid gold.

This recipe is designed to be both simple and customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences and available ingredients. In just over an hour, you’ll have a vibrant, nutrient-packed broth that’s free from additives and preservatives.

So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to create one of the best veggie broths you’ll ever taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade vegetable broth is a kitchen staple that brings warmth and depth to your meals. Unlike store-bought broths, which often contain excess sodium and artificial flavors, this recipe is fresh, wholesome, and incredibly flavorful.

You’ll love how easy it is to make with everyday vegetables and herbs.

Another reason this broth is a winner is its versatility. Use it as the base for soups, stews, sauces, or even to cook grains like rice and quinoa for an extra boost of flavor.

It’s vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly, making it perfect for all dietary preferences. Plus, the recipe is highly adaptable, so you can use whatever vegetables and herbs you have on hand, reducing waste and saving money.

For a deeper dive into delicious vegetable-based meals, check out our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large stockpot (6-quart or larger)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or ladle
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Large bowl to catch broth
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Storage containers (glass jars or airtight containers)

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Start by thoroughly washing all vegetables to remove any dirt. Roughly chop the carrots, celery, onion, leek, and parsnip (if using). Crush the garlic cloves but keep their skins on to add a subtle color and flavor.
2. Sauté the vegetables (optional for deeper flavor): In your stockpot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and leek, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and develop a slight caramelization, about 7-10 minutes. This step adds sweetness and richness to your broth but can be skipped if short on time.
3. Add remaining ingredients: Add the crushed garlic, mushroom stems, parsley, thyme, bay leaves, peppercorns, and parsnip to the pot. Pour in the 10 cups of water, ensuring vegetables are fully submerged.
4. Bring to a simmer: Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Avoid boiling aggressively as it can make the broth cloudy and bitter.
5. Skim foam and impurities: Occasionally skim off any foam or scum that rises to the surface using a spoon. This keeps the broth clear and clean-tasting.
6. Strain the broth: When the broth has developed a rich flavor and beautiful color, remove the pot from heat. Using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the broth into a large bowl or another pot. Press gently on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible, but avoid forcing vegetable bits through the strainer.
7. Cool and store: Allow the broth to cool completely at room temperature. Transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Use within this time frame for best flavor and quality.

Tips & Variations

Tip: Save your vegetable scraps like carrot peels, onion ends, and celery leaves in a freezer bag. Once you have enough, use them to make broth — reducing food waste and maximizing flavor!

Variation: For a smoky flavor, add a small piece of smoked paprika or a dried chipotle pepper during simmering. For a more herbal profile, experiment with rosemary or dill.

Vegetable swaps: Feel free to swap in other vegetables such as tomatoes, bell peppers, or fennel. Avoid cruciferous vegetables like broccoli or cabbage, as they can overpower the broth with bitterness.

To further expand your plant-based cooking repertoire, try our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas or indulge in a sweet treat with the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

Nutrition Facts

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Serving Suggestions

This vegetable broth is incredibly versatile and can serve as a foundation for countless dishes. Use it as a base for your favorite soups — from a comforting Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating to a hearty stew packed with fresh veggies.

It’s also excellent for cooking grains or legumes, adding a subtle depth of flavor that water just can’t provide. Try using it when making risotto, polenta, or quinoa to enhance the taste.

For an indulgent twist, use this broth as the liquid in a creamy pasta sauce like our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes. You’ll be amazed at how much richer your dishes become!

Conclusion

Making your own vegetable broth is a rewarding and straightforward process that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful, nourishing staple. With this recipe, you can enjoy a fresh, additive-free broth that enhances your meals and supports your healthy eating goals.

Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover vegetable scraps, making your kitchen more sustainable and budget-friendly.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this broth will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. Experiment with the ingredients and tailor it to your taste, then watch how it elevates everything from soups to sauces.

For more inspiration and tasty recipes to pair with your broth, be sure to explore our collection of Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves and other delightful plant-based dishes.

Happy cooking and enjoy the delicious, comforting goodness of your homemade vegetable broth!

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