If you’re craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup that’s both nourishing and entirely plant-based, this vegan cream of broccoli soup recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, velvety, and bursting with fresh broccoli flavor, it’s a perfect choice for chilly days or anytime you want a wholesome meal that’s quick and easy to make.
Unlike traditional cream soups that rely on dairy, this version uses simple vegan ingredients to achieve that rich, creamy texture without any animal products.
This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from fresh broccoli and other wholesome ingredients. It’s an excellent way to sneak more greens into your diet while enjoying a satisfying meal.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your routine, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan cream of broccoli soup is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly creamy without the need for dairy, thanks to the use of cashews and plant-based milk, which provide richness and depth.
Second, it’s versatile — you can customize it with your favorite herbs, spices, or even add in other vegetables for variety.
Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a pot of comforting soup ready in under 30 minutes.
Plus, it stores well, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. Finally, it’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a wholesome and guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of broccoli (about 4 cups chopped florets)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for 20 minutes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional, for cheesy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of half a lemon
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Blender (high-speed or regular)
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander or strainer (for soaking cashews)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Chop the broccoli into florets and dice the onion. Mince the garlic cloves. Drain the soaked cashews and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add broccoli and broth: Toss in the broccoli florets and pour in the vegetable broth. Stir in the dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend the soup: Carefully transfer the soup mixture to a blender in batches if necessary. Add the soaked cashews and almond milk. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend less.
- Season and finish: Pour the blended soup back into the pot and heat gently on low. Stir in the nutritional yeast if using, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread or your favorite vegan grilled cheese sandwich.
Tips & Variations
For a nut-free version, substitute soaked cashews with cooked potato and cauliflower to achieve creaminess.
Feel free to swap almond milk for oat, soy, or coconut milk depending on your preference. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce can give the soup a delightful kick.
For extra protein, stir in some cooked white beans or tofu cubes before serving.
If you want to deepen the flavor, roast the broccoli florets in the oven with a little olive oil and salt before adding them to the soup. This adds a lovely caramelized note that enhances the overall taste.
Looking for more comforting vegan recipes? Check out our Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners or try the rich and flavorful Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (about 1.5 cups) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 |
Protein | 6g |
Fat | 10g |
Carbohydrates | 18g |
Fiber | 5g |
Sugar | 4g |
Calcium | 150mg |
Iron | 1.5mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan cream of broccoli soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or with warm, crusty artisan bread for dipping.
For a heartier meal, add a side of roasted garlic mashed potatoes or vegan grilled cheese sandwiches.
For entertaining, consider serving this soup as a starter before a main course like our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or after a light appetizer such as the Lipton Vegetable Dip Recipe: Easy Party Favorite.
Conclusion
This vegan cream of broccoli soup is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal that will warm you up on any day. Its creamy texture and fresh flavors make it a satisfying option for those seeking plant-based comfort food.
With wholesome ingredients and simple steps, it’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks looking to add more vegan dishes to their repertoire.
Not only is it tasty, but it also offers a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables and healthy fats into your diet. Make a big batch and enjoy it for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to explore other plant-based delights like our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves for the perfect accompaniment to your soup.
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Cream of Broccoli Soup
Description: A rich and creamy vegan broccoli soup made with cashews and coconut milk. Perfect for a comforting and healthy meal.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup canned coconut milk
- 1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked for 2 hours
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add broccoli, potatoes, and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
- Simmer for 15 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Drain cashews and blend with coconut milk until smooth.
- Add cashew cream to the soup and blend until creamy.
- Return soup to pot, season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and nutritional yeast.
- Heat through and serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 14 g | Carbs: 20 g
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