The Ultimate Healthy Vegan Soup Recipe
In the heart of every health-conscious eater lies a love for soups – those warm, comforting bowls filled with nutritious goodness. Vegan soups, in particular, offer a delightful way to enjoy a range of vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, all while ensuring a meal is hearty, satisfying, and aligned with vegan dietary preferences. Today, let’s explore a recipe for a healthy vegan soup that not only nourishes the body but also delights the taste buds.
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s remember this quote: “A bowl of soup with someone you love is healing and warming.” Now, imagine how much more healing it is when that soup is also packed with nutrients and love for the planet.
Ingredients and Caloric Content
Here’s a table of all the ingredients you’ll need for this healthy vegan soup, along with their approximate calorie content, making it easier to track your intake and enjoy your meal guilt-free.
Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
---|---|---|
Olive oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
Onion, chopped | 1 medium | 44 |
Garlic cloves | 2, minced | 9 |
Carrots, diced | 2 medium | 50 |
Celery stalks, diced | 2 medium | 12 |
Sweet potato, cubed | 1 large | 112 |
Canned tomatoes | 1 can (14 oz) | 88 |
Vegetable broth | 4 cups | 80 |
Lentils (dry) | 1 cup | 230 |
Kale, chopped | 2 cups | 66 |
Salt | To taste | 0 |
Black pepper | To taste | 0 |
Cumin | 1 tsp | 8 |
Chili powder | 1 tsp | 8 |
Water | As needed | 0 |
*Calorie estimates are based on generic values and can vary.
Healthy Vegan Soup Recipe
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Add Vegetables:
- To the pot, add the diced carrots, celery, and sweet potato. Stir well to combine and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften.
- Incorporate Lentils and Broth:
- Rinse the lentils under cold water, then add them to the pot along with the canned tomatoes and vegetable broth. If the soup seems too thick, add some water to reach your desired consistency.
- Season:
- Season the soup with salt, black pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Adjust the quantities based on your preference for spice.
- Simmer:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 25 minutes, or until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
- Add Greens:
- Add the chopped kale to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the kale has wilted and is bright green.
- Serve:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, with a side of crusty bread if desired.
Conclusion
This healthy vegan soup is not just a meal; it’s a bowl full of nutrients, flavors, and love. It’s perfect for cozy nights in, or as a nutritious option to fuel your body throughout the week. Remember, soups are incredibly versatile, so feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.
Embrace the art of soup-making and enjoy the simple pleasure of a meal that is both nourishing and delicious. After all, as the saying goes, “Soup is cuisine’s kindest course.”
Leave a comment