There’s something wonderfully comforting about a bowl of warm vegetable soup, especially when it’s as flavorful and healthy as this fennel and broccoli soup. This vegan delight is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a nourishing meal that not only tastes great but is also easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, this soup is sure to satisfy.
The Benefits of Fennel and Broccoli
Before diving into the recipe, let’s highlight the stars of this dish: fennel and broccoli. Fennel is a fantastic source of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium, and it adds a unique, slightly sweet anise flavor to dishes. Broccoli, a well-known superfood, is loaded with vitamins K and C, folate, and provides a hearty texture to the soup.
Ingredients:
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1 shallot, chopped
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1 leek, white and light green parts only, chopped
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1 fennel bulb, chopped
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1/2 celeriac root (about 310g), peeled and chopped
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1.5 liters (about 53 fluid ounces) of vegetable broth
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2 bay leaves
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2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
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1/2 head of broccoli (about 180g), cut into florets
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1 tablespoon coconut yogurt
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Black pepper and salt, to taste
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Chives and chili flakes, for garnish
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Olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shallot, leek, fennel, and garlic, and sauté until they start to soften and become fragrant. This builds a flavorful base for your soup.
Step 2: Simmer
Add the chopped celeriac to the pot along with the vegetable broth and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Add Broccoli and Seasonings
Introduce the broccoli florets and nutritional yeast to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, or until the broccoli is bright green and just tender. Remove the bay leaves.
Step 4: Blend
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. For an even creamier texture, you can add a tablespoon of coconut yogurt and blend it into the soup.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives, a sprinkle of chili flakes, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Conclusion
This easy fennel and broccoli soup is a delicious way to enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a nutritious lunch that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Give this recipe a try and you might just find yourself wanting to make it a regular part of your meal rotation!
