Clear Broth Soup Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Ideas

There’s something incredibly soothing about a warm bowl of clear broth soup, especially when it’s packed with wholesome, vegetarian goodness. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, craving a light meal, or simply want to enjoy the pure essence of fresh vegetables, this clear broth soup recipe is your go-to comfort food.

It’s light on the stomach, easy to digest, and bursting with natural flavors without any heaviness or grease. Plus, it’s a perfect base for adding your favorite veggies or herbs, making it versatile enough to suit your mood or pantry.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through creating a beautifully clear, flavorful vegetarian broth that forms the heart of many delicious soups. From selecting the right ingredients to tips on achieving a crystal-clear finish, this recipe is designed to be simple yet deeply satisfying.

Ready to warm your soul? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This clear broth soup is a fantastic staple for any vegetarian kitchen. Here’s why it stands out:

• Pure, clean flavor: The broth highlights the natural sweetness and umami of fresh vegetables without overpowering spices.
• Light and nourishing: Perfect for detox days, light lunches, or a starter before a hearty meal.
• Flexible and versatile: Use it as a base for noodle soups, add grains, or simply enjoy it as is.
• Easy to make: Minimal ingredients, no complicated techniques, and no animal products involved.
• Healthy and low-calorie: Ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a nutrient-rich, comforting dish without excess calories or fat.

Ingredients

• 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium onion, quartered (leave skin on for color)
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 parsnip, peeled and chopped (optional for sweetness)
• 1 small leek, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts only)
• 1 bay leaf
• 6-8 whole black peppercorns
• 4 sprigs fresh parsley
• 1 sprig fresh thyme
• 1½ teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
• 10 cups cold water
• Optional: A small piece of kombu seaweed (for added umami)

Equipment

• Large stockpot (at least 6-quart capacity)
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Wooden spoon
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Large bowl or container for straining broth

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and roughly chop the carrots, celery, onion, parsnip, and leek. Leave the onion skin on to add a beautiful golden hue to your broth.
2. Combine ingredients in the stockpot: Place all the vegetables, garlic, bay leaf, peppercorns, parsley, thyme, and kombu (if using) into your large stockpot. Pour in the cold water and add salt.
3. Bring to a simmer: Slowly heat the pot over medium heat. Once it reaches a gentle simmer, reduce the heat to low. Avoid boiling, as that can cloud the broth.
4. Simmer gently for flavor extraction: Let the broth simmer gently for 45 to 60 minutes. Stir occasionally and skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface to keep the broth clear.
5. Strain the broth: Remove the pot from heat. Using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the broth into a large bowl or container, discarding the solids. For a crystal-clear broth, strain twice if necessary.
6. Adjust seasoning: Taste your broth and add more salt if needed. The broth should have a delicate but rich vegetable flavor.
7. Cool and store: Allow the broth to cool before refrigerating. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips & Variations

“For the clearest broth, always start with cold water and keep the heat low to avoid cloudiness.”

• Use fresh, organic vegetables: The broth’s flavor depends entirely on the vegetables, so fresh produce makes a big difference.
• Don’t rush the simmer: A slow, gentle simmer extracts flavors without emulsifying fats or starches that cloud the broth.
• Herbal variations: Try adding rosemary, sage, or a few peppercorns for a different aroma.
• Boost umami naturally: Add dried mushrooms or a splash of soy sauce to deepen the broth’s flavor.
• For a spiced twist: Add a small piece of ginger or a cinnamon stick to the pot during simmering.
• Make it heartier: After straining, add cooked noodles, diced tofu, or chopped greens for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This clear broth soup is wonderfully versatile for many occasions. Serve it as a gentle appetizer before a robust meal to awaken the palate.

It also works beautifully as a light lunch or dinner when paired with whole-grain toast or a fresh salad.

For a heartier option, add cooked noodles or grains such as quinoa or barley directly into the broth. Stir in some sautéed mushrooms or diced tofu for extra protein and texture.

Fresh herbs like chives, cilantro, or basil sprinkled on top add fresh bursts of flavor.

Looking for inspiration? Try pairing this broth with our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a cozy fall meal or enjoy it alongside a crunchy batch of Pecan Crackers for a delightful snack.

For something sweet to finish, our Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe is the perfect treat.

Conclusion

Creating a clear vegetarian broth soup is both an art and a rewarding experience that brings warmth and nourishment to your table. This recipe is simple yet customizable, making it a fantastic base for countless meals.

Whether you’re seeking a light cleansing soup or a foundation for more complex dishes, this broth offers rich vegetable flavors without heaviness.

Take your time to simmer slowly, use fresh ingredients, and adjust the seasoning to your liking. With its soothing qualities and health benefits, this clear broth soup will soon become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Enjoy the process and savor every sip of this wholesome comfort!

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