Frequently Asked Questions
What is Velvety Vegan Broccoli Oat Soup?
It is a nutrient-dense, creamy soup made from fresh broccoli and oatmeal that provides a rich texture without using dairy or cream.
Is this recipe entirely vegan?
Yes, the recipe uses only plant-based ingredients such as vegetable oil, broccoli, oats, and vegetable stock.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 105 calories.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
What makes the soup velvety without cream?
The combination of quick-cooking oatmeal and pureed broccoli creates a thick, creamy consistency naturally.
Can I use a different oil than canola oil?
Yes, you can use any other vegetable oil for sautรฉing the onions and garlic.
What vegetables are needed for the base?
The base is made using chopped onions, diced celery, and minced garlic.
How long should I cook the onions?
Sautรฉ the onions, celery, and garlic covered for 10 minutes until the onions are translucent.
How do I prepare the broccoli?
Rinse the broccoli, cut the stalks into small pieces, and separate the florets, reserving 1 cup of florets for later.
How much broccoli is required?
The recipe calls for 2 stalks, which should equal about 2 cups of chopped stems and florets.
Can I use vegetable stock instead of water?
Yes, you can use 4 cups of either water or vegetable stock for the soup base.
When do I add the oatmeal?
Add the quick-cooking oatmeal after the broccoli has simmered for 5 minutes.
How long does the oatmeal need to cook?
Simmer the soup for about 10 minutes after adding the oats until the broccoli is tender and the soup thickens.
What seasonings are used in the soup?
The soup is seasoned with salt, dried dill, black pepper, and fresh lemon juice.
How do I achieve a smooth consistency?
Use a blender to puree the soup in batches after it has finished simmering.
What do I do with the reserved broccoli florets?
Boil them separately in 1/2 cup of water for 3-5 minutes until crisp-tender, then add them to the pureed soup.
Should I discard the water used to cook the florets?
No, incorporate the florets along with their cooking water back into the pureed soup to maintain flavor and nutrients.
What is the recommended garnish?
Garnish each bowl with a paper-thin slice of lemon and a sprinkle of minced fresh chives.
What type of oats should I use?
The recipe specifically calls for quick-cooking oatmeal to ensure it softens and thickens the soup properly.
Is there any cholesterol in this soup?
No, this recipe is cholesterol-free.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides 3 grams of protein.
How much fiber does this soup contain?
There are 2.5 grams of fiber per serving.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
The soup is low in fat, containing only 2.5 grams per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 17.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Where did the inspiration for this recipe come from?
This recipe was inspired by the Moosewood cookbook.
Is this soup a good source of vitamins?
Yes, it is packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh broccoli and vegetables.
Can I use fresh dill?
The recipe calls for dried dill, but fresh dill can be used if you adjust the quantity to your taste.
How much garlic is used?
The recipe uses 2 cloves of minced garlic.
Is this soup suitable for a light dinner?
Yes, it is a low-guilt, hearty dish perfect for a comforting and healthy dinner.
Can I store and reheat this soup?
Yes, this soup can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated on the stove over low heat.