Get ready to indulge in a comforting bowl of creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This recipe captures the classic flavors of the traditional soup but uses only plant-based ingredients. You won’t believe how easy it is to make this crowd-pleasing soup that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
The Secret to “Cheesy” Vegan Flavor
The key to achieving that irresistible “cheddar” taste in a vegan soup lies in the clever combination of vegetables, spices, and nutritional yeast.
Ingredients for vegan broccoli cheddar soup
- Nutritional yeast: This inactive yeast has a naturally cheesy, nutty flavor that mimics real cheese remarkably well.
- Potatoes & Carrots: These vegetables provide creaminess and a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
- Spices: A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of turmeric creates a warm, savory depth reminiscent of cheddar cheese.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Let’s Make Some Soup!
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables and Broth: Add chopped carrots, potatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Vegan broccoli cheddar soup simmering in a pot - Blend Until Creamy: Use an immersion blender or carefully transfer the soup to a blender to blend until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in Broccoli and Spices: Return the soup to the pot (if using a blender) and stir in the broccoli florets, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer and Serve: Bring the soup back to a simmer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Taste and Adjust: Have a taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or nutritional yeast to your preference.
Vegan broccoli cheddar soup simmering in a potTips for the Best Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Use High-Quality Vegetable Broth: The flavor of your broth will directly impact the taste of your soup, so use a good-quality vegetable broth for the best results.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli towards the end of the cooking process to prevent it from becoming mushy. You want it to be tender but still have a slight bite.
“For an extra smooth soup, pass the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before adding the broccoli florets. This will remove any fibrous bits from the potatoes or carrots.” – Chef Emily Carter, Plant-Based Chef & Author.
Enjoy Your Creamy Creation!
Ladle this comforting vegan broccoli cheddar soup into bowls and serve it warm.
A bowl of vegan broccoli cheddar soup
For an extra touch of flavor, garnish with:
- Freshly ground black pepper
- A swirl of plant-based cream or coconut milk
- Croutons or crusty bread for dipping
FAQs About Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I substitute for nutritional yeast?
While nutritional yeast provides the best cheesy flavor, you can substitute it with 2 tablespoons of white miso paste or cashew cream for a similar savory taste.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Add them to the soup along with the fresh broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup along with the other spices.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with a side salad, crusty bread, or a vegan grilled cheese sandwich.
“This vegan broccoli cheddar soup is a testament to the fact that you don’t need dairy to create incredibly flavorful and comforting dishes. Embrace the power of plants and enjoy!” – Chef Emily Carter, Plant-Based Chef & Author.
