As autumn winds blow, nothing warms the heart like homemade soup. I loved my grandmother’s chicken noodle soup, with its rich broth and tender veggies. Now, I seek a plant-based version that brings back those cozy feelings.
This vegan chicken noodle soup is the perfect comfort food. It’s made with just 8 simple, healthy ingredients. You’ll love the plant-based broth and meatless chicken substitutes that make it so delicious.
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The Ultimate Comfort Food Alternative
For many, chicken noodle soup brings back warm memories. Now, you can enjoy a plant-based version that’s just as comforting. This vegan soup has all the flavors of the classic, but it’s animal-free.
Benefits of Plant-Based Comfort Food
Choosing vegan chicken noodle soup is good for you and the planet. It’s lower in bad fats and cholesterol, which is better for your heart. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from veggie noodles and plant-based proteins.
Why Choose Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup
Vegan chicken noodle soup lets you enjoy your favorite flavors in a kinder way. It’s a delicious, satisfying meal that’s good for you and the animals.
Historical Background of Traditional Chicken Soup
Chicken soup has been a comfort food for centuries. Known as “Jewish penicillin,” it’s been a go-to for colds and flu. The vegan version keeps the tradition alive, but with a more compassionate twist.
The vegan chicken noodle soup recipe has 158 calories per serving. It’s ready in about 35 minutes and makes 5 servings. You can keep it in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 158 |
| Carbohydrates | 27g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Sodium | 1643mg |
| Vitamin A | 7229IU |
| Vitamin C | 12mg |
| Calcium | 34mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Essential Ingredients for Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup
Making a tasty vegan chicken noodle soup needs careful picking of ingredients. Start with plant-based broth and meatless chicken substitutes. You’ll need vegan butter, your favorite meatless chicken alternative, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, Italian seasoning, and a plant-based broth. Also, pick your favorite pasta and add a bit of miso paste for extra flavor.
Want a little more heat? Add some red pepper flakes. Choose a top-notch vegan chicken broth like Better Than Bouillon Vegan Chicken Base or make your own. These ingredients blend well to make a hearty and healthy vegan chicken noodle soup that will make you feel cozy.
- Vegan butter
- Meatless chicken substitutes (e.g., soy curls, seitan, or store-bought vegan chicken)
- Onion
- Carrots
- Celery
- Garlic
- Thyme
- Bay leaves
- Italian seasoning
- Plant-based broth (homemade or Better Than Bouillon Vegan Chicken Base)
- Pasta of your choice
- Miso paste (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional for added spice)
“The key to a truly comforting vegan chicken noodle soup is finding the right balance of flavors and textures.”
Plant-Based Protein Options and Substitutes
Creating a tasty vegan chicken noodle soup requires the right protein. Unlike traditional chicken soup, vegan versions use meatless chicken substitutes. You can find cruelty-free protein in stores or make your own at home.
Store-Bought Vegan Chicken Alternatives
For a quick fix, many meatless chicken substitutes are available. Gardein and Beyond Meat offer vegan chicken strips and nuggets. These cruelty-free protein options taste and feel like real chicken.
Homemade Protein Options
Homemade protein sources can be just as tasty. Tofu, seitan, and soy curls are great meatless chicken substitutes. You can season them to taste like chicken. Chickpeas or other legumes add protein and heartiness to your soup.
Texture and Flavor Considerations
When picking a meatless chicken substitute, think about texture and taste. Some are firmer, while others are softer. Try different cruelty-free protein sources to find the best fit for your soup.
| Protein Source | Texture | Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Tofu | Firm to extra-firm | Mild, absorbs flavors well |
| Seitan | Chewy, meat-like | Savory, wheat-based |
| Soy Curls | Tender, shredded | Neutral, absorbs flavors |
| Chickpeas | Soft, creamy | Nutty, earthy |
Creating the Perfect Broth Base
A delicious vegan chicken noodle soup starts with a flavorful broth. You can use a high-quality plant-based broth or make your own. A store-bought vegan chicken bouillon, like Better Than Bouillon Vegan Chicken Base, is a great choice. It gives your soup a rich, savory taste.
Or, you can make your own vegan chicken broth. Start by sautéing onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in olive oil or vegan butter. Then, add low-sodium vegetable stock, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 30-45 minutes to blend the flavors.
To add more umami, mix in a tablespoon of miso paste. Miso brings a savory depth that complements the vegan chicken noodle soup ingredients well.
“The perfect broth is the foundation for a truly satisfying vegan chicken noodle soup.”
With your broth base ready, you can now start assembling your plant-based broth soup.
Fresh Vegetables and Aromatics Selection
When making vegan chicken noodle soup, picking the right vegetables and spices is key. Carrots, celery, and onions are a classic mix. But, try new veggies and spices to add more flavor.
Classic Vegetable Combinations
- Carrots: Add a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
- Celery: Provides a crisp, earthy flavor and enhances the overall aroma.
- Onions: Caramelized onions lend a rich, savory note to the broth.
Seasonal Variations
Use fresh, seasonal veggies for a twist on the classic soup. Try zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a different taste.
Herb and Spice Profiles
Herbs and spices make a soup great. Use thyme, parsley, and garlic for a boost. Try Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for something special.
The secret to a tasty vegan chicken noodle soup is in the veggies and spices. Use seasonal produce and mix herbs and spices to make a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Make your vegan chicken noodle soup easily with these simple steps. This plant-based version of a classic dish is tasty and healthy.
- Start by heating 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a big pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the vegan chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, until it’s lightly browned on all sides.
- Then, add the diced yellow onion, sliced carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook the aromatics for 3-5 minutes, until they start to soften and smell good.
- Next, pour in 6-8 cups of vegan chicken broth, made with a good vegan chicken bouillon. If using concentrated bouillon, mix 4 cups of prepared broth with 2 cups of water. Let it boil.
- After boiling, add the 7 ounces of vermicelli rice noodles and the vegan chicken. Lower the heat to medium-low and simmer for 25 minutes. This lets the flavors mix and the noodles get tender.
- In the last step, mix in 2 tablespoons of miso paste for more umami flavor. Season the vegan chicken noodle soup with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to taste.
Your delicious plant-based broth is ready to enjoy! It takes about 50 minutes to cook, with 15 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of cooking. It makes 4 servings.
For more protein, add 1 1/2 cups of cooked chickpeas or cubed tofu to the soup. The leftover broth is great for slurping and scooping with the nourishing noodles. Enjoy your homemade vegan chicken noodle soup fully!
Noodle Options and Cooking Tips
When making vegan chicken noodle soup, you can pick from many noodle types. Regular pasta works, but for gluten-free, choose brown rice or corn noodles. Stay away from bean-based pastas as they don’t hold up well.
Gluten-Free Alternatives
For a gluten-free soup, use rice noodles or brown rice spiral noodles. They feel like traditional egg noodles but without gluten. For a chewier bite, try wide rice noodles or brown rice spaghetti.
Perfect Cooking Times
Cook pasta as the package says, usually 10 to 15 minutes. If using homemade pasta, use less broth and cook less to avoid mushiness. Watch the noodles to keep them just right in your veggie noodle soup.
| Noodle Type | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| Regular Pasta | 10-15 minutes |
| Gluten-Free Brown Rice Noodles | 8-12 minutes |
| Homemade Fresh Pasta | 5-8 minutes |
Finding the right noodle texture is key for a great vegan meal prep or veggie noodle soup. Try different noodles and cooking times to find your favorite.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Enjoying your homemade vegan meal prep doesn’t have to stop after one meal. With the right storage and reheating, you can enjoy your dairy-free comfort food for days.
For the best taste and texture, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Let the soup cool down before putting it in the fridge. When you’re ready for more, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing the soup is an option, but the pasta might get mushy when thawed. For the best experience, enjoy your vegan chicken noodle soup within a few days. These easy tips will help you enjoy your homemade plant-based comfort food even more.
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.
- Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until just warmed through.
- Avoid freezing the soup, as the pasta may become mushy upon thawing.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Your homemade vegan chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food. It pairs beautifully with many dishes to make a satisfying meal. Whether you want a classic or something unique, there are many options to enhance your soup.
Complementary Side Dishes
Start with a fresh salad like our Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad or a vibrant Rainbow Veggie Salad. For something heartier, try Cornbread, Ling Ling Potstickers, or Falafel to soak up the broth. Crusty Olive Bread or Knotted Challah Rolls are also great choices.
Garnishing Ideas
Elevate your vegan chicken noodle soup with fresh garnishes. Sprinkle chopped parsley or vegan parmesan on top for color and flavor. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. These simple touches can make your soup stand out.
Pairing your homemade vegan chicken noodle soup with the right side dishes and garnishes makes for a great meal. It’s perfect for Meatless Monday or vegan meal prep. Exploring new flavors and textures will delight your taste buds.
Conclusion
This vegan chicken noodle soup recipe is a comforting, flavorful twist on the classic. It uses plant-based broth and tastes just like the real thing. It’s great for those on a vegan diet or wanting to eat less meat.
The recipe is simple to make and you can change it up to your liking. It’s perfect for cold days or when you’re not feeling well.
This dairy-free comfort food is full of good stuff like veggies and plant-based proteins. It’s a healthy, tasty meal. If you love chicken noodle soup or want a vegan version, this recipe is a winner.
By using vegan ingredients, you can enjoy the warm, comforting taste of vegan chicken noodle soup. It’s easy to make and you can customize it. It’s a great choice for cozy, satisfying meals.
Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric for color and flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups shredded jackfruit or store-bought vegan chicken substitute
- 2 cups wide egg-free noodles or pasta
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast optional, for added flavor
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the thyme, parsley, turmeric, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add the shredded jackfruit or vegan chicken substitute, stirring well.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the noodles and nutritional yeast (if using). Cook according to the pasta’s package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the noodles are tender.
- Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.