Vegan broccoli soup is a creamy, broth based dish that does not use any ingredients that were derived from animals. Pureed broccoli is combined with vegetable broth and dairy free milk to create a rich soup that is high in fiber and low in calories. The broccoli may be substituted with any vegetable choice the cook prefers, and can be seasoned with sauteed onions and garlic.
A vegan diet is one in which an individual does not consume animal meat, or any foods that can be considered a bi-product of animals. This often includes eggs, milk, honey, butter, yogurt, and cheese, among other dairy foods. Some vegans also choose to alter their lifestyles so that they do not wear or use any products that were made from animals, like cosmetics, leather, and fur.
The primary ingredients used in vegan broccoli soup are vegetable broth, dairy free milk, and broccoli. Vegetable broth can be made at home using carrots and celery that are cooked on the stove top for up to eight hours. A wide variety of additional vegetables, spices, and herbs can be added to the simmering sauce pot during the cooking time for flavor. It should be strained prior to use. Those who prefer not to make their own vegetable broth can also use vegetable bouillon cubes that have been dissolved in boiling water.
The choice in the type of dairy free milk used in the vegan broccoli soup is typically left to the chef. Soy milk, rice milk, and almond milk are all excellent options for use in creating the creamy texture of this recipe. Those who are concerned with their gluten and glycemic index intake may prefer almond milk, due to its naturally low carbohydrate content.
Broccoli should be peeled and coarsely chopped for use in vegan broccoli soup. It can be cooked for several minutes in the vegetable broth to tenderize it, before placing it into a food processor. The pureed broccoli and vegetable broth are combined with the milk during the final stages of cooking to allow all ingredients to blend together.
The broccoli can be substituted with many different types of vegetables to meet the taste preferences of the chef. Cauliflower, spinach, celery, and potatoes with leeks are common choices. Onion and garlic that have been sauteed in olive oil can be added with the chopped vegetables to the food processor for additional flavor.
