Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups plain plant-based milk
- 2 cups water plus more as needed
- 2 low-sodium vegetable bouillon cubes
Vegetables
- 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
Protein & Cheese
- 1 (16-ounce) pack silken tofu
- 2 cups vegan shredded cheddar cheese plus more for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook while stirring frequently until the onions turn translucent and release a fragrant aroma, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add flour: Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir continuously for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste and create a slight roux base.
- Add liquids and vegetables: Pour in the plant-based milk and combine well with the roux. Then add water, vegetable bouillon cubes, chopped broccoli florets, and sliced carrots. Stir thoroughly and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer gently for 25 minutes, or until broccoli and carrots become tender.
- Blend tofu with soup portion: Transfer the silken tofu along with 2 cups of the cooked soup including some broccoli and broth into a blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
- Combine blended soup: Return the blended mixture to the pot and stir well to integrate creaminess throughout the soup.
- Add vegan cheese: Stir in the vegan shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and combined. Cover the pot again and cook for an additional 5 minutes to incorporate the flavors and thicken slightly.
- Serve: Turn off the heat, give the soup a final stir, then ladle into bowls. Garnish optionally with extra vegan cheddar cheese and serve hot.
Notes
- For enhanced depth of flavor, try roasting some broccoli beforehand to impart a nutty, smoky, and caramelized note.
- Adjust texture by blending only part of the soup, keeping some chunkiness for a pleasing mouthfeel.
- Choose a flavorful and melty vegan cheddar cheese to achieve the best taste and creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
