Broccoli Cheddar Soup + Tempeh Bacon

Ingredients

Serves: 3-6 (depending on how much you're willing to share) Time: 45 minutes

Soup

• 2 1/2 - 3 cups vegetable broth (adjust depending on desired soup thickness)

• 1 cup non-dairy milk, unflavored (I used Planet Oat regular)

• 3/4 cup raw cashews

• 1 large yellow onion, diced

• 1 large carrot, diced

• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/4 tsp chili powder

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• 4-5 cups broccoli florets, chopped

• 1/4 cup non-dairy shredded cheddar cheese (I used Daiya)

• 1-2 Tbs olive oil
  

Tempeh Bacon (straight from Fake Meat by Isa Chandra Moskowitz)

• 1 package tempeh, cut into cubes rather than strips for the crouton effect

• 2 Tbs maple syrup (or agave)

• 2 Tbs soy sauce/tamari

• 2 Tbs olive oil

• 2 Tbs smoked paprika
  

Directions

1. In a large pot, set heat to medium. Once hot, add the oil, enough to coat the bottom. Then sauté the onion and carrots for 10 minutes, until the onions are lightly browned. Add the cashews halfway through.

2. Meanwhile, prepare your tempeh bacon marinade, and add the chopped tempeh into a bowl with the marinade. Toss until evenly coated then let it hang out while you do the rest.

3. Then, add the garlic and spices. Stir together for one more minute before adding the broth and non-dairy milk.

4. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer for 20 minutes.

5. While the soup is simmering, set a small/medium skillet to medium heat. Once hot, add a little oil or cooking spray to coat the pan, and add the tempeh to the pan in an even layer. Cook for about 10 minutes, flipping occasionally with a spatula to get an even browning on each side. Remove from heat once cooked and set aside.

6. After the soup has simmered, use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

7. Add in the chopped broccoli florets and non-dairy cheese, return to low heat, and simmer for another 5-10 minutes, until the broccoli is just cooked.

8. Serve with tempeh bacon and maybe some toasted bread if you're feeling frisky.