Vegan Roasted Garlic and Potato Soup

When the weather turns chilly, nothing warms the soul quite like a comforting bowl of soup.

This Vegan Roasted Garlic and Potato Soup is the ultimate cozy meal, perfect for lazy evenings, meal prepping, or even as a showstopper starter for dinner parties.

Packed with creamy potatoes, aromatic roasted garlic, and a hint of herbs, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds!).

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 1 large head of garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 large potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best), peeled and cubed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond or oat)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish (Optional):

• Chopped fresh parsley or chives
• A drizzle of olive oil or swirl of coconut cream
• Croutons or crispy chickpeas for added crunch

Instructions:

1. Roast the Garlic:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Slice the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, and wrap in foil.
   • Roast for 35-40 minutes until the cloves are soft, golden, and fragrant. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the garlic, making it a key ingredient for the soup’s deep flavor.
   • Let the roasted garlic cool slightly before squeezing the softened cloves out of their skin.
2. Prepare the Soup Base:
   • In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the cubed potatoes and stir to coat them in the oil and onion mixture. Allow them to cook for 2-3 minutes to develop a subtle golden crust for extra flavor.
3. Simmer the Soup:
   • Pour in the vegetable broth and add the roasted garlic and thyme. Stir well and bring to a boil. As the soup simmers, the potatoes absorb the rich flavors of the broth and garlic.
   • Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes almost start to fall apart.
4. Blend Until Creamy:
   • Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. This method minimizes cleanup, but you can also transfer the soup in batches to a blender for an ultra-silky texture (be cautious with the hot liquid!).
   • Stir in the plant-based milk to enhance the creaminess, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup feels too thick, add a little more broth or milk to adjust the consistency to your liking.
5. Serve and Garnish:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your choice of garnish. Fresh parsley or chives add a pop of color, while a drizzle of olive oil or a swirl of coconut cream gives it a luxurious finish.
   • For added texture, sprinkle on some crunchy croutons or crispy roasted chickpeas. Serve with warm, crusty bread or pair it with a vibrant side salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips:

• Add Depth of Flavor: For a smoky twist, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika, a splash of liquid smoke, or even some roasted red peppers blended into the soup.
• Make it Hearty: Toss in some cooked lentils, white beans, or even diced carrots for added protein and texture. These additions can turn the soup into a filling, one-pot meal.
• Prep Ahead: Roast the garlic and chop the veggies ahead of time to make this soup even quicker to prepare on busy days. The roasted garlic can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
• Storage Tips: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk if it thickens during storage.

This Vegan Roasted Garlic and Potato Soup is as versatile as it is delicious.

Whether you’re savoring it as a main course, serving it as a dinner party appetizer, or packing it for a cozy lunch at work, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The comforting flavors of roasted garlic and creamy potatoes create a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Try this recipe and let the simple, wholesome ingredients shine—your taste buds will thank you!