This creamy Vegan Broccoli Potato Soup is a delightful blend of rich, cheesy flavors and comforting textures, all achieved without any dairy.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 1/2 yellow onion (or 1/2 leek), chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lbs golden potatoes, scrubbed, rinsed, and diced
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 cup raw cashews
• 7-8 cups low-sodium vegetable stock
• 5-6 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 lb broccoli florets
• Sea salt, to taste
• Red pepper flakes, a pinch
• 1/3 cup fresh chives, snipped for garnish
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (optional)

Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a heavy stockpot over medium-low heat, sauté the chopped onion in a splash of water (or a drizzle of olive oil) until translucent.
2. Add Carrot and Celery: Incorporate the diced carrot and chopped celery into the pot. Add a pinch of sea salt and red pepper flakes. Cover with a lid and allow the vegetables to sweat for a few minutes until the carrots begin to soften.
3. Incorporate Garlic and Potatoes: Stir in the minced garlic, diced potatoes, raw cashews, and vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Season and Cook: Add nutritional yeast and, if using, turmeric. Cover the pot and cook for approximately 20 minutes, or until the potatoes and cashews have softened.
5. Blend the Soup: Carefully transfer the soup to a powerful blender and purée until silky smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot, though a high-speed blender may yield a creamier texture.
6. Return to Pot and Add Broccoli: Pour the blended soup back into the stockpot and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the broccoli florets, cover, and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the broccoli reaches your desired level of tenderness. Avoid overcooking to maintain a pleasant texture.
7. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional sea salt if needed. If a thinner consistency is preferred, add more vegetable stock at this stage. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh chives and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 201 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Sodium: 54 mg
• Potassium: 893 mg
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Vitamin A: 1,700 IU
• Vitamin C: 66 mg
• Calcium: 82 mg
• Iron: 6 mg

Health Benefits of Vegan Broccoli Potato Soup

This Vegan Broccoli Potato Soup is not only comforting and delicious but also packed with nutrients that provide numerous health benefits. Both broccoli and potatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making this soup a powerhouse of nutrition. Broccoli is well known for its high vitamin C content, which boosts the immune system and protects against free radicals. It also contains fiber that supports digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, broccoli has antioxidants such as sulforaphane, which has been linked to reduced inflammation and improved heart health. Potatoes, on the other hand, are an excellent source of potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure. They are also rich in complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy and keep you full for longer.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Season

Although soups are often associated with colder months, this Vegan Broccoli Potato Soup is suitable for any season. During winter, it provides warmth and comfort, while in summer, it can be enjoyed as a light yet satisfying meal. Its creamy consistency makes it a fulfilling option that does not feel too heavy. Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile. It can be served as an appetizer before a main course or enjoyed as a complete meal when paired with a side of whole-grain bread or a fresh salad. The mild yet flavorful profile makes it appealing to both adults and children, making it a great choice for family meals. This soup is also an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Many people struggle to consume enough greens, but this recipe makes it easy and enjoyable. The smooth texture allows picky eaters to enjoy the goodness of broccoli without noticing its presence too much.

Customization Options for Different Preferences

One of the best aspects of this Vegan Broccoli Potato Soup is its adaptability. While the original recipe is already packed with flavor, there are many ways to customize it based on personal preferences and dietary needs. For a protein boost, some people like to add cooked lentils or chickpeas. These ingredients not only enhance the nutritional value but also add a heartier texture to the soup. If you prefer a smokier flavor, incorporating smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke can provide a more complex taste. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding chili flakes or cayenne pepper can give the soup a gentle kick. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder taste, reducing the garlic or leaving out the red pepper flakes will result in a softer, more neutral flavor. If you want to increase the soup’s green content, adding spinach or kale towards the end of cooking is a great option. 

How This Soup Supports a Plant-Based Lifestyle

For those following a vegan or plant-based lifestyle, finding hearty and satisfying meals can sometimes be challenging. This Vegan Broccoli Potato Soup is a great example of how plant-based dishes can be both nourishing and indulgent. Unlike traditional creamy soups that rely on heavy cream and butter, this recipe achieves its rich consistency through cashews and potatoes. These ingredients not only make the soup dairy-free but also increase its nutritional value.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

Another advantage of this Vegan Broccoli Potato Soup is its suitability for meal prep. It can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually develop over time, making the soup taste even better the next day. For longer storage, the soup can be frozen in airtight containers for up to three months. When reheating, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens after storage, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water will help restore its original consistency.

Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal

While this Vegan Broccoli Potato Soup is satisfying on its own, pairing it with complementary dishes can enhance the dining experience. A slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a side of homemade garlic toast is a classic choice that adds texture and makes the meal more filling. For a well-rounded meal, consider serving the soup alongside a fresh salad. A simple kale or spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup. Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers, also make a great side dish that complements the flavors of the soup. If you want to add more protein, pairing the soup with a chickpea or quinoa salad is a great option. The combination of protein-rich ingredients and fiber-filled soup makes for a balanced and nutritious meal.

Conclusion

This Vegan Broccoli Potato Soup is a fantastic example of how plant-based eating can be both delicious and nutritious. It combines simple, wholesome ingredients into a creamy, satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. The health benefits of broccoli, potatoes, cashews, and nutritional yeast make this soup a nutrient-dense choice that supports overall well-being. Its versatility allows for easy customization, making it suitable for different dietary preferences and taste preferences. Whether you are looking for a comforting meal on a cold day, a light but filling option for lunch, or a family-friendly dinner, this soup is a great addition to your recipe collection. With its easy preparation, meal prep convenience, and ability to be paired with a variety of sides, it is a go-to recipe that you will want to make again and again.