Go Back

Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This vegan broccoli cheddar soup is a warm, creamy dish that combines tender broccoli with a rich, nutty cashew base, all without any dairy. The soup is blended until velvety smooth, showcasing a vibrant green hue and comforting texture, perfect for cozy meals. It turns humble ingredients into a satisfying, indulgent-looking bowl of goodness.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil such as canola or light olive oil
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups broccoli florets fresh or thawed frozen
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup raw cashews soaked in hot water for 20 minutes and drained
  • 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed, added before serving

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Blender
  • Knife
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until it turns translucent and releases a sweet aroma.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden.
  4. Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until they turn bright green and start to soften.
  5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, until the broccoli is tender but not mushy.
  6. Meanwhile, drain the soaked cashews and transfer them to a blender along with a cup of the cooked broccoli and some of the broth. Blend until silky smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
  7. Return the blended creamy mixture to the pot and stir in the nutritional yeast. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Warm the soup over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring gently, until heated through and flavors meld. Add lemon juice just before serving for brightness.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. The soup should be velvety, vibrant green, and fragrant with a cheesy aroma from the nutritional yeast.
  10. Serve hot, garnished with additional nutritional yeast or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this comforting, dairy-free bowl of goodness!