Creamy Vegetable Soup

Creamy Vegetable Soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul and pleases the palate. This comforting soup is not only vegan and gluten-free, but it also bursts with flavors from fresh vegetables and spices. Perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting friends, this creamy vegetable soup is sure to impress. Plus, it’s made without any cream, yet still offers a rich texture that you’ll love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just one pot needed, cleanup is a breeze.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and plant protein, this soup supports a healthy lifestyle.
• Versatile Options: Customize with your favorite herbs or additional veggies for added flavor.
• Comforting Meal: This hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave something warm.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Creamy Vegetable Soup, having the right tools on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Blender
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Essential for even cooking and simmering your soup to perfection.
• Blender: This tool transforms soaked cashews into a smooth cream, adding richness without dairy.

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Ingredients

Creamy Vegetable Soup (without cream) is a vegan and gluten-free favorite that comes together in one pot. Filled with fiber and plant protein, this hearty and healthy soup is pure comfort.

For the Base:

• 1 cup raw cashews
• 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup diced celery

For the Vegetables:

• 12 oz. baby red potatoes, quartered (if larger, cut into bite-size pieces)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp. dried oregano
• 1 tsp. kosher salt
• 3/4 tsp. cracked black pepper
• 8-10 sprigs fresh thyme

For Added Protein:

• 1 (1-lb.) bag mixed frozen vegetables (California Blend or Garden Blend)
• 1 (15-oz.) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

For the Broth:

• 4 cups lower-sodium vegetable broth

How to Make Creamy Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Prepare Cashews

Place cashews in a bowl and add 2 cups HOT water. Let soak while you prepare the remainder of the recipe.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
* Add onions and celery; cook for 5 to 6 minutes until softened.
* Stir in potatoes, garlic, oregano, and thyme; continue cooking for 5 more minutes while stirring often.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add frozen vegetables, chickpeas, salt, and pepper to the pot.
* Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
* Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan as it boils.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer partially covered for 20 to 25 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Blend Cashew Cream

Transfer soaked cashews along with their soaking liquid to a blender.
* Blend on HIGH until smooth; texture should resemble cashew milk.
* Pour this mixture back into the soup.

Step 6: Final Adjustments

Gently simmer uncovered until the soup starts to thicken (about 8 to 10 minutes).
* Remove thyme stems and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.
* Ladle into bowls and add garnishes of choice like fresh herbs or croutons.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy vegetable soup!

How to Serve Creamy Vegetable Soup

Creamy Vegetable Soup is not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Use a mix of chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or cilantro to add a pop of color and freshness.

Crushed Crackers or Croutons

• Top your soup with crushed crackers or homemade croutons for an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.

A Drizzle of Olive Oil

• A simple drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil can elevate the flavors and give a rich finish to your soup.

Lemon Zest

• Grating some fresh lemon zest on top adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the soup’s creaminess perfectly.

Serve with Bread

• Pair your soup with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for dipping.

How to Perfect Creamy Vegetable Soup

Creating the perfect Creamy Vegetable Soup is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance flavor and texture.

• Soak Cashews: Soaking cashews in hot water allows them to blend smoothly, resulting in a creamier texture for your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper levels based on your preference for flavor.
• Use Fresh Veggies: Opt for fresh vegetables instead of frozen for a more vibrant taste and better nutrient retention.
• Simmer Gently: Allow the soup to simmer gently; this helps meld all the flavors together without overcooking the vegetables.
• Blend Thoroughly: Ensure the cashew mixture is blended until completely smooth to achieve that silky consistency you desire.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Vegetable Soup

Complementing your Creamy Vegetable Soup with side dishes can create a complete meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread adds crunch and flavor, making it ideal for dipping into your creamy soup.

2. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad with fresh greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

3. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide additional textures and flavors that pair nicely with the soup.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and complement the vegetable theme of your meal beautifully.

5. Cheesy Biscuits
   Fluffy biscuits with cheese offer a comforting side that pairs perfectly with warm soup.

6. Savory Muffins
   Muffins made with herbs or spices can be a delightful addition, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Vegetable Soup can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Skipping the soaking of cashews: Not soaking cashews can lead to a gritty texture in your soup. Always soak them in hot water for at least 30 minutes for the best creaminess.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can cause them to lose their nutrients and flavor. Keep an eye on cooking times, especially for potatoes and frozen veggies.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Seasoning should be adjusted according to personal taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as you go.
• Using low-quality broth: A bland broth can make your soup taste dull. Opt for a high-quality vegetable broth to enhance the overall flavor of your creamy vegetable soup.
• Not blending thoroughly: If you don’t blend the cashew mixture long enough, it may remain chunky. Blend until smooth for a velvety texture.
• Forgetting garnishes: A simple garnish like fresh herbs or croutons can elevate your soup. Always consider adding a finishing touch before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Vegetable Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Vegetable Soup

• Freeze soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Creamy Vegetable Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Creamy Vegetable Soup.

Can I make this soup without cashews?

Yes, you can substitute cashews with silken tofu or coconut cream for a different creamy texture.

How do I customize my Creamy Vegetable Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices! Kale, spinach, or even different herbs work great.

What should I serve with Creamy Vegetable Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, salads, or even a vegan grilled cheese sandwich.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Definitely! Just ensure they are chopped into similar sizes and adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I store leftovers of Creamy Vegetable Soup?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Vegetable Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables and spices based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!