Caldo Verde Recipe Vegan: Easy and Delicious Guide

Caldo Verde, often hailed as Portugal’s national soup, is a comforting and hearty dish traditionally made with potatoes, kale, and chorizo. However, for those embracing a vegan lifestyle or simply looking for a plant-based twist on this classic, this vegan caldo verde recipe offers a delicious alternative without compromising on flavor.

This vibrant green soup is both nourishing and easy to prepare, making it perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping. With simple, wholesome ingredients, it captures the essence of traditional caldo verde while being entirely plant-based.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring meatless meals, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into why this recipe is a must-try, list out all the ingredients and equipment you need, and guide you step-by-step through the cooking process. Plus, I’ll share tips, variations, nutrition facts, and some tasty serving suggestions to help you enjoy this comforting soup to the fullest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan caldo verde recipe is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and fresh. Unlike the traditional version that uses sausage or chorizo, this one uses smoky paprika and mushrooms to mimic that umami depth, making it equally satisfying.

It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup packed with nutrients from potatoes and kale.

One of the best parts about this recipe is its simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients that are easy to find, and the soup comes together in under an hour.

The texture is silky smooth with just the right amount of bite from the tender kale. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and oil-free, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this caldo verde will warm your soul and keep you coming back for more. It’s also a great recipe to pair with some crusty bread or a fresh salad for a more complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, can use vegetable broth instead)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bunch kale (about 6 cups), finely shredded
• 1 cup mushrooms (cremini or shiitake), finely chopped for smoky flavor
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 bay leaf
• Juice of half a lemon

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Immersion blender or regular blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fine mesh strainer (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. If you prefer oil-free, skip the oil and use a splash of vegetable broth.
2. Add garlic and mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic and finely chopped mushrooms. Cook for another 5 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and soften, enhancing the soup’s smoky depth.
3. Season with smoked paprika: Sprinkle smoked paprika over the mixture and stir well to combine, cooking for 1 minute to release the flavor.
4. Add potatoes and broth: Pour in the diced potatoes, vegetable broth, and add the bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Blend the soup: Remove the bay leaf. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.
6. Add the kale: Stir in the shredded kale and cook uncovered for another 5-7 minutes, until kale is tender but still bright green.
7. Season to taste: Add salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Stir well and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy immediately with your choice of accompaniments.

Tips & Variations

For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a dash of liquid smoke or smoked sea salt.

If you want to make this soup even heartier, consider adding cooked white beans or lentils. You can also swap the kale for collard greens or Swiss chard if you prefer a different leafy green.

For a creamier texture without blending, mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher instead of pureeing the entire soup. This gives a rustic feel with chunks of tender potato throughout.

To keep it oil-free, use vegetable broth for sautéing instead of olive oil. Also, experimenting with smoked tofu cubes or tempeh crumbles can add protein while keeping it vegan.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan caldo verde pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping.

For a lighter accompaniment, serve with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

For something more substantial, try it alongside roasted vegetables or a grain bowl featuring quinoa or farro. The soup also makes an excellent starter for a Portuguese-themed meal, complementing dishes like Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe (for omnivores) or vegan options like the Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes.

If you’re interested in exploring more vegan pasta options, check out this delicious Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe to complement your soup night.

Conclusion

This vegan caldo verde recipe is a wonderful testament to how plant-based cooking can honor traditional flavors while embracing modern dietary choices. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal meal for chilly days or whenever you need a comforting bowl of goodness.

The smoky undertones from paprika and mushrooms perfectly mimic the classic version’s depth without any animal products, proving that vegan recipes can be both authentic and delicious.

By following this recipe, you’ll create a soup that’s not only flavorful but also versatile, easy to prepare, and nourishing. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this caldo verde will surely become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations, and enjoy pairing it with your favorite sides. Happy cooking!

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