The fusion of broccoli and nutritional yeast in a soup creates a delightful, creamy, and nutritious dish that's both comforting and healthful. Nutritional yeast, often used as a cheese substitute, brings a unique, nutty, and slightly cheesy flavor to the table, which enhances the earthy taste of broccoli, making for a soup that's not just good for you but delicious too. Here are five ways to make broccoli soup with nutritional yeast, each with its own twist to cater to various palates and dietary needs:
1. Classic Creamy Broccoli Soup
The classic approach to broccoli soup involves creating a smooth, creamy base with the addition of nutritional yeast for that extra flavor. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start with sauteing garlic and onions until translucent.
- Add broccoli florets and vegetable broth. Cook until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend until smooth, then incorporate nutritional yeast, a touch of cream or plant-based milk for silkiness, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
2. Vegan Broccoli Soup with Nutritional Yeast Cheese Sauce
For those following a vegan diet, making a cheese-like sauce with nutritional yeast is a game changer. Here’s a simple method:
- Make a roux with flour and vegan butter, then slowly add plant-based milk to make a thick sauce.
- Whisk in nutritional yeast, a pinch of turmeric for color, and a dash of garlic powder and salt for taste.
- Pour this sauce over lightly steamed broccoli or blend it into the soup for a rich, cheesy flavor.
3. Broccoli and Potato Soup with Nutritional Yeast
This hearty variation adds potatoes to bulk up the soup, making it more filling:
- Boil cubed potatoes and broccoli together until tender.
- Mash some potatoes to thicken the soup, then blend half with vegetable stock and nutritional yeast until creamy.
- Add the remaining veggies back in, and stir to create a chunky yet creamy soup.
4. Detox Green Broccoli Soup
A lighter option for detox or a health-focused meal:
- Combine broccoli, spinach, green peas, and any other greens you have with vegetable broth.
- Simmer until soft, then blend with a generous sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a green, vitamin-packed soup.
- Season with lemon juice and fresh herbs for a fresh twist.
5. Spicy Broccoli and Cauliflower Soup
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this recipe adds a kick:
- Include both broccoli and cauliflower for variety in texture and flavor.
- Add a sliced chili or chili flakes while sauteing the onions and garlic.
- Blend with nutritional yeast, some coconut milk for creaminess, and a dash of cumin or smoked paprika.
Using nutritional yeast in broccoli soup not only adds flavor but also packs in the nutrients. Here are some notes on this versatile ingredient:
🌿 Note: Nutritional yeast is rich in B vitamins, particularly B12, making it an excellent addition for vegans and vegetarians. It also contains protein and fiber.
🧀 Note: When substituting nutritional yeast for cheese, the typical ratio is 1 tablespoon of nutritional yeast to replace 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese. However, adjust to taste as its flavor is unique and can vary between brands.
🔊 Note: Be mindful of the salt content in nutritional yeast as it can vary. Always taste your soup as you season it to avoid over-salting.
These five methods for making broccoli soup with nutritional yeast offer a range of flavors and textures to suit different preferences. Whether you're looking for comfort food, a vegan-friendly option, or a detox soup, there's a recipe here for you. Remember, cooking is an art, so feel free to tweak these recipes to your taste, adding or subtracting ingredients to create your perfect bowl of soup.
What is nutritional yeast and why is it used in soup?
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Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast often used as a condiment or as a flavor enhancer. It's popular in vegan cooking for its nutty, cheesy taste, which can mimic cheese when sprinkled on soups, popcorn, or pasta. In soup, it adds a depth of flavor, provides a creamy texture, and boosts nutritional value with B vitamins, protein, and fiber.
Can I use frozen broccoli for these recipes?
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Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in soups since it retains its nutritional value when cooked. Just remember to thaw and drain it before adding to your soup to avoid diluting it with excess water.
Are there any substitutes for nutritional yeast?
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If you're out of nutritional yeast, you might try using cashews, soaked and blended with water, for creaminess, or miso paste for umami flavor. However, they won't provide the same nutty, cheesy taste, so use them more as thickeners or flavor enhancers rather than direct substitutes.
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