I know how it feels when the wind starts to blow and all you want is something warm in your belly. Personally, I think there is nothing better than a big pot of soup simmering on the stove. It makes the whole house feel safe and happy. If you are looking for meals that are kind of like a warm hug, you are in the right place.
I want to share some of my favorite plant based recipes that are seriously easy to make. These are not fancy or hard. We are talking about basic things you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, these recipes are totally vegan, which means they are great for your body. Let’s explore some of the best cozy meals you can make tonight.
Why We All Love Homemade Vegan Soup
Honestly, soup is the ultimate comfort food. Many people find that cooking can be a bit scary, but soup is different. It is very hard to mess up. You just put things in a pot, let them sit, and wait for the flavor to grow.
Believe it or not, making your own soup at home is actually much better than buying it in a box. Here’s why:
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You control the salt: Store bought soups are often way too salty for me.
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Fresh veggies: You get all the good vitamins from fresh vegetables.
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It’s cheap: You can feed your whole family for just a few dollars.
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The smell: Your kitchen will smell like a dream.
I’ve been there, looking at the fridge wondering what to cook. Trust me, these recipes will save your busy nights.
1. Creamy Red Lentil Soup (The Protein Powerhouse)
This is one of my personal favorites because it is so fast. Red lentils are sort of like magic. Unlike green lentils, they break down when you cook them. This makes the soup naturally creamy without any milk or cream.
Ingredients You Will Need
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1 cup red lentils (be sure to rinse them)
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1 onion (chopped up small)
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2 carrots (sliced)
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4 cups vegetable broth
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1 teaspoon cumin
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A squeeze of lemon juice
Here Is How To Make It
First, you want to cook your onion and carrots in a large pot with a little bit of water or oil. Once they are soft, add your cumin and stir it around. Then, pour in your lentils and the broth.
Let it boil, then turn the heat down. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes. You will see the lentils start to fall apart. That is exactly what we want. To finish it off, add that squeeze of lemon. It really makes the flavor bright. Simple as that.
2. The Best Vegetable Noodle Soup
When I was little, my mom would always make noodle soup when I felt a bit tired. This vegan version is just as good. It is light, healthy, and really easy to eat.
Ingredients You Will Need
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Small pasta shapes (like stars or little tubes)
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Celery, carrots, and onions (the best team)
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A pinch of dried thyme
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6 cups of veggie broth
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Fresh parsley
Here Is What You Can Do
Start by cooking your veggies until they are pretty soft. Add your broth and the thyme. Bring everything to a boil and then drop in your pasta.
Make sure to check the pasta box for the cooking time. Usually, it takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to add the parsley at the very end for a fresh taste. If you are wondering why it tastes so good, it’s the thyme. It gives it that classic cozy vibe without using any meat.
3. Smooth Butternut Squash Soup
Picture this: a bright orange, very smooth soup that tastes a bit sweet and very yummy. That is butternut squash soup. It is the definition of a cozy autumn meal.
Ingredients You Will Need
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1 medium butternut squash (peeled and cut into cubes)
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1 apple (peeled and chopped)
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1 can of coconut milk (this makes it creamy)
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A pinch of cinnamon and ginger
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Vegetable broth
Here Is The Secret
The secret to a great squash soup is adding an apple. It sounds a bit strange, but the sweetness of the apple goes perfectly with the squash.
Boil the squash, apple, and spices in the broth until everything is very soft. Then, you can use a blender to make it smooth. Stir in the coconut milk at the end. You’ll love this because it feels like a fancy meal but it is actually very easy to make.
4. Hearty White Bean and Spinach Soup
I really love this one because it feels so filling. If you are worried that vegan soup won’t keep you full, this is the one for you. The beans add a lot of heartiness.
Ingredients You Will Need
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2 cans of white beans (like cannellini)
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3 cloves of garlic (minced)
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1 big handful of fresh spinach
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1 can of diced tomatoes
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4 cups vegetable broth
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A little bit of dried oregano
Here Is Why It Works
Garlic and oregano make this soup taste like a rustic Italian dinner. You just sauté the garlic, add the beans, tomatoes, broth, and herbs. Let it simmer for 15 minutes.
Right before you serve it, stir in the spinach. The heat from the soup will make the spinach wilt in about 30 seconds. It is a great way to get your greens in. Plus, the white beans get a little bit creamy as they cook.
Tips For Making The Best Soup Every Time
I’ve made a lot of soup in my life, and I have learned a few tricks. Here is what I suggest:
Don’t Rush The Onions
Seriously, let your onions cook until they look clear. This builds the base of the flavor. If you rush this part, your soup might taste a bit plain.
Use High Quality Broth
Since broth is the main liquid, it matters a lot. If you don’t have broth, you can use water and a good veggie cube. Personally, I prefer the low salt versions so I can add my own later.
Add Some Acid
If your soup tastes a bit boring, it probably needs a little acid. A splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lime can totally change the dish. It makes the other flavors pop.
Freeze Your Leftovers
One tip is to make a big batch. Most vegan soups freeze perfectly. You can put them in small bowls and then you have a healthy lunch ready for later. No worries.
Low Competition Ingredients To Keep In Your Pantry
If you want to be ready for soup season at any time, keep these things in your cupboard. They are low cost and stay fresh for a long time:
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Canned Beans: Chickpeas and white beans add great texture.
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Dried Herbs: Oregano, thyme, and bay leaves are a must.
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Potatoes: They make the soup thick when you mash them.
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Garlic: You can never have too much garlic, right.
Healthy Benefits Of Eating More Soup
Did you know that soup is one of the best ways to stay hydrated. Since it is mostly water and vegetables, it helps you get your fluids while filling you up. Also, because the vegetables are cooked down, some nutrients are actually easier for your body to take in.
Many people find that they feel better when they eat light, vegetable based meals. It is a gentle way to eat. Plus, it is a great way to hide veggies for kids who might be a bit picky. They won’t even notice the carrots if you blend them into a tomato soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these soups in a slow cooker?
Yes, you absolutely can. Most of these recipes work great in a slow cooker. Just put everything in and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. It is so nice to come home to the smell of dinner already done.
How long does vegan soup stay fresh in the fridge?
Usually, these soups will stay good for about 4 to 5 days. Just make sure to put them in a container with a lid once they have cooled down.
My soup is too thin, what can I do?
No worries, that’s totally normal. You can take a cup of the soup, blend it up, and pour it back in. Or, you can add a mashed potato. It will get thick right away.
Is vegan soup filling enough for dinner?
I get it, sometimes you worry you will be hungry later. To make it a full meal, I’d recommend serving your soup with some bread or a little salad. Adding beans or lentils also helps keep you full for a long time.
Final Thoughts On Cozy Cooking
At the end of the day, cooking should be fun. You don’t need to be a professional to make a delicious, healthy meal for yourself. These easy vegan soup recipes are meant to be a simple start. Feel free to change them up based on what you like.
Maybe you want more spice, or maybe you want to add some kale. Go for it. The thing is, your kitchen is your place to try new things. I believe that anyone can cook great food if they just give it a go.
So, what do you think. Which one are you going to try first? Whether it is the red lentil or the white bean, I am sure it will make your evening a lot more cozy.
There you have it. A simple guide to the best comfort food around. Happy cooking.