There’s something undeniably cozy about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it's loaded with fresh vegetables and layered with creamy richness. This Vegan Cream of Broccoli Soup with Coconut Milk hits all the right notes—it's rich, velvety, and savory without any dairy. Whether you're craving something reminiscent of a classic cream of broccoli cheese soup or looking for a new take on your go-to broccoli soup recipes, this one is sure to win you over. It’s a plant-based take on a classic that even die-hard fans of Panera broccoli and cheese soup will appreciate. Plus, the gentle hint of coconut makes it stand out while still delivering all the familiar warmth of your favorite comfort food.
Vegan Cream of Broccoli Soup with Coconut Milk
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American, European
Large soup pot or Dutch oven Essential for sautéing and simmering everything in one pot. A Dutch oven holds heat beautifully.
Immersion blender This lets you puree the soup right in the pot for a smooth texture.
Blender (optional) If you don’t have an immersion blender, a standard countertop blender works great. Just blend in batches and be cautious with the hot liquid.
Cutting board & sharp knife. Crucial for prepping all your vegetables efficiently.
Ladle For serving up perfect portions.
Fresh Ingredients
- 1 large head of fresh broccoli chopped (about 5 cups, including stems)
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium Yukon Gold potato peeled and diced (adds body and creaminess)
- 1 celery stalk chopped
- 1 medium carrot chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice for brightness
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish optional
Pantry Staples
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric optional, for color and a hint of earthiness
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg optional, complements the creaminess
- 1 teaspoon onion powder enhances savory depth
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 13.5 oz can full-fat coconut milk
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion turns translucent. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Add the chopped broccoli (including the peeled stems), diced potato, turmeric, nutmeg, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat everything in the oil and aromatics.
Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the broccoli and potatoes are very tender.
Step 4: Blend Until Creamy
Turn off the heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. If using a countertop blender, allow the soup to cool slightly and blend in batches. For a little texture, you can leave some broccoli pieces unblended.
Step 5: Stir in Coconut Milk
Once the soup is smooth, stir in the full can of coconut milk and the lemon juice. Return the pot to low heat and gently warm through for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Taste the soup and adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. The lemon helps balance the richness of the coconut milk and adds a hint of brightness.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired. Serve hot, ideally with warm bread or a side salad.
Perfect Pairings
What makes this creamy broccoli soup a meal is what you pair it with. Here are some delicious ideas:
1. Crusty Bread
Whether it’s a rustic sourdough or a slice of toasted baguette, nothing beats dipping bread into hot soup. You can also try it with garlic toast or a vegan grilled cheese sandwich for extra indulgence.
2. Grain Salads
A bright quinoa or farro salad with lemon vinaigrette adds textural contrast and a punch of freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the soup.
3. Roasted Veggies
If you’re in the mood for more hearty vegetables, serve the soup alongside roasted cauliflower, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts for a satisfying dinner.
4. Light Sandwich
Try a tomato and avocado sandwich on multigrain bread, or even a vegan BLT with tempeh bacon for a comforting yet nutritious meal.
5. Sparkling Water or White Wine
Pair with a chilled glass of sparkling water with lemon or a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to cleanse your palate and enhance the soup’s natural sweetness.
FAQs
1. What type of broccoli works best for this soup?
Use fresh broccoli for optimal flavor and texture. Include the stems (peeled), as they become incredibly tender and flavorful when cooked down. You can also use frozen broccoli in a pinch, but fresh gives the best result.
2. Can I make this in a crockpot?
Absolutely! This works wonderfully as a broccoli soup crockpot recipe. Add all ingredients except the coconut milk and lemon juice to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Blend, then stir in coconut milk and lemon juice at the end.
3. How can I add a cheesy flavor without dairy?
For a cream of broccoli cheese soup vibe, add ¼ cup of nutritional yeast before blending. It brings that savory, umami depth similar to cheese. This tip is especially helpful if you’re craving creamy broccoli cheddar soup without using any dairy products.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove or microwave and stir well to reincorporate the coconut milk.
5. How does this compare to traditional broccoli cheddar soup?
While this vegan version skips the dairy, it’s just as rich and satisfying. It’s also healthier—lower in saturated fats and free from cholesterol, making it a great alternative to even the best broccoli cheese soup you’ve had at your favorite restaurant. And yes, even fans of the iconic Panera broccoli and cheese soup might find themselves loving this plant-based twist.
