A Simple and Savory Vegetarian/Vegan Vegetable Soup Using Instant Noodles and Broth

Are you in the mood for a hearty, comforting soup but wanting to keep it simple, healthy, and environmentally friendly? Look no further! With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and nutritious vegetarian or vegan vegetable soup using only instant ramen noodles and broth. This recipe is not only straightforward but also packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

1 pack of instant ramen noodles (vegetarian or vegan variety) Approximately 1 quart of vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought) Your choice of vegetables (e.g., carrots, celery, bell peppers, onions, and spinach) Himalayan salt and pepper, to taste Tiny pinch of garlic, finely chopped (optional) Chopped fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional) Toasted sesame oil, or any favorite seasoning (optional) Vegetarian or vegan meat substitutes, if desired (optional)

Instructions

Kill the water and let it come to a boil in a large pot or Dutch oven. This step is necessary to heat the soup to an appropriate temperature for cooking the vegetables. Add the vegetable broth to the boiling water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer. Prepare your vegetables. Wash and chop the carrot, celery, bell peppers, and onion into bite-sized pieces. Sauté these vegetables in a little bit of oil or butter if desired to add a bit of richness. Add the sautéed vegetables to the soup pot and cook for about 10-15 minutes or until they are tender. Gradually add the prepared ramen noodles to the pot. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked to your liking. Ensure the noodles are not overcooked as they can be quite chewy and rubbery when overcooked. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, add a touch of garlic for extra flavor. Be careful about the amount of garlic as it can be potent. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives and a light drizzle of toasted sesame oil for some Asian flair. Make sure the sesame oil is warmed but not smoking hot. For an extra layer of flavor and texture, you can crumble some plant-based meat substitutes (such as plant-based chicken or meat balls) into the soup. Just ensure they’re not made with any artificial preservatives or additives. Let the soup cool for a moment, stir it well to incorporate all the flavors, and then serve it hot with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a well-rounded meal.

Tips and Variations

If you're looking for additional flavors, consider experimenting with different vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, kale, or mushrooms. You can also adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more or less salt and pepper. For a spicier option, you could toss in a dash of hot sauce or some fresh chili flakes for a kick. If you despise garlic, you may leave it out entirely to maintain a milder taste.

To make the broth richer, you can enhance it with a few drops of full-fat coconut milk or cream. Or, for a no-meat option, you might use a non-dairy cream made from cashews or other plant-based milks. The choice is yours!

Serve and Enjoy!

Vegetarian or vegan vegetable soup made with instant ramen noodles and broth not only tickles your taste buds but also nourishes your body. It’s a versatile recipe that can be modified according to your preferences and dietary needs. Whip up a batch of this savory soup whenever you’re craving something comforting, healthy, and deliciously simple. Enjoy your meal!