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Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This vegan broccoli cheddar soup features vibrant green broccoli cooked until tender and blended with nutritional yeast to create a cheesy, creamy base. The soup is simmered until smooth and velvety, showcasing a bright, comforting appearance with a rich, cheesy aroma. It’s a nourishing, plant-based twist on classic comfort food, perfect for cozy days.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups broccoli florets fresh or thawed frozen
  • 4 cups vegetable broth low-sodium preferred
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast to add cheesy flavor
  • 1/2 cup plant-based milk unsweetened, such as almond or oat
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for smoky flavor

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Immersion blender or regular blender
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Heat a large pot over medium heat, then add the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant, with a slight sweetness developing.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Stir in the broccoli florets, cooking for 5-7 minutes until they turn a bright green and start to soften, filling the kitchen with a fresh, vegetal aroma.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover partially and cook for about 10 minutes, until the broccoli is tender when pierced with a fork.
  5. Using an immersion blender or carefully transferring the mixture to a blender, blend until smooth and velvety, with no lumps remaining. Return to the pot if using a separate blender.
  6. Stir in the nutritional yeast, plant-based milk, and smoked paprika (if using), then heat gently for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and slightly thickened.
  7. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed, adjusting to your preferred flavor balance.
  8. Once seasoned, turn off the heat and let the soup sit for a few minutes to meld flavors. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of cashew cream or silken tofu before blending. To enhance smoky flavor, add a pinch more smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke.