On a chilly evening when the wind whistles through the trees, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm bowl of soup. I discovered this delightful Pea and Broccoli Miso Soup during one of those cozy nights, as the aroma of sautéed garlic and ginger filled my kitchen. With its vibrant green color and hearty texture, this soup is like a healthful hug in a bowl, offering nourishing ingredients that are both wholesome and accessible.
In less than 30 minutes, you can whip up a creamy blend of sweet peas and fresh broccoli that will tantalize your taste buds while being gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. It’s the perfect antidote for those fast food cravings, delivering rich flavor and plant-based protein in an easy-to-make dish that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this nourishing bowl of goodness that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire!
Why is Pea and Broccoli Miso Soup a Must-Try?
Nourishing flavors envelop you in warmth, making it the ideal comfort dish for chilly nights.
Hearty yet light, this soup is a satisfying meal without weighing you down—perfect for any time of year.
Quick and easy to prepare, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal in under 30 minutes, saving you time on busy days.
Packed with nutrients, it’s brimming with plant-based protein and vitamins to boost your well-being.
Versatile and adaptable, you can easily swap ingredients to match your preferences or what you have on hand.
Crowd-pleaser potential means it’s bound to impress family and friends, serving as a delightful starter or main course!
Pea and Broccoli Miso Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
• Broccoli – 500 grams, adds nutrition and a vibrant green color to your dish.
• Frozen Peas – 3 cups, lends creaminess and sweetness for a smooth texture.
• Brown Onion – 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped; a fundamental flavor base in the soup.
• Garlic – 1-2 cloves, peeled and minced; contributes aromatic flavor and health benefits.
• Fresh Ginger – 40-50 grams (about 2 thumbs’ worth), peeled and minced; adds a zesty kick for enhanced immunity.
• Miso Paste – 2-3 tbsp, forming the flavor foundation of this pea and broccoli miso soup; brown rice miso is recommended.
• Boiling Water – 4-6 cups depending on desired thickness; creates the soup base.
• Coconut Oil – 2 tbsp, for sautéing vegetables and adding healthy fats; other oils can be substituted.
• Salt & Pepper – To taste, enhancing the overall flavor of your nourishing soup.
How to Make Pea and Broccoli Miso Soup
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Prepare Ingredients: Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion, garlic, and ginger. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets; this will help them cook evenly and blend smoothly.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large saucepan over high heat, add the coconut oil along with the chopped onion, ginger, and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion turns translucent—your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!
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Cook Broccoli: Toss in the broccoli florets and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes. You want them to become vibrant in color while still retaining a bit of crunch.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in 4 cups of hot water and add the frozen peas. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables soften a bit.
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Add Miso: Stir in the miso paste until it dissolves entirely. Cover and simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld while the veggies become tender and soft.
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Blend Smooth: Once cooked, remove from heat and allow to cool for a few minutes. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or in batches with a regular blender, adjusting the water as needed for your desired consistency.
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Season Delightfully: Taste your soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. If it’s cooled too much, give it a gentle reheat before serving to enjoy that lovely warmth.
Optional: Top with toasted seeds or a swirl of coconut cream for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Pea and Broccoli Miso Soup?
On a chilly evening, pairing this vibrant soup with delightful sides can turn your meal into a cozy feast.
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Crusty Whole Grain Bread: Its hearty texture and nutty flavor beautifully complement the creamy soup, perfect for dipping and soaking up every bite.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A mix of crunchy greens and juicy tomatoes adds a refreshing crispness that balances the rich and soothing flavors of the soup.
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Quinoa Salad: Packed with protein, a quinoa salad featuring lemon and herbs adds a zesty touch that brightens up the meal while enhancing its nutritional value.
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Toasted Seeds: Sprinkle some toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a crunchy contrast to the soup’s creamy texture, adding extra nutrients and flavor.
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Herbed Rice: A side of fluffy rice infused with fresh herbs complements the savory notes of the miso, making each spoonful of soup even more satisfying.
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Coconut Cream Swirl: Go beyond just the soup! A dollop of coconut cream on the side can amplify the tropical notes, creating an indulgent yet healthy treat.
These pairings will elevate your dining experience, inviting warmth and nourishment to your table while sharing moments with loved ones.
Make Ahead Options
These Pea and Broccoli Miso Soup components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onion, garlic, ginger, and broccoli up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and ready to go. Additionally, you can measure out the miso paste and have the frozen peas handy, making it a breeze to whip this nourishing soup together on a busy weeknight. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the aromatics, add the vegetables, pour in the hot water, and simmer. In no time, you’ll have a comforting bowl of soup that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!
Storage Tips for Pea and Broccoli Miso Soup
Room Temperature: Enjoy your soup hot and fresh! If left out, it should not stay at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure safety.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently in a pot or microwave until hot.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Allow to cool completely before freezing to maintain quality.
Reheating: To reheat from frozen, transfer to the fridge to thaw overnight, then heat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through, stirring as needed. Enjoy your comforting Pea and Broccoli Miso Soup once more!
Expert Tips for Pea and Broccoli Miso Soup
- Quality Miso Matters: Always use high-quality, unpasteurized brown rice miso for richer flavor and improved nutritional benefits.
- Adjust Consistency: If your soup is too thin, simply add more frozen peas or reduce the amount of water to achieve the perfect thickness.
- Timing is Key: Add the miso paste after cooling the soup slightly to preserve its probiotics and health benefits—don’t let it boil!
- Personalize Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or spices to customize your pea and broccoli miso soup to suit your taste buds.
- Garnish with Flair: Fresh toppings like toasted seeds or a swirl of coconut cream not only enhance the flavor but also add a charming visual appeal.
Pea and Broccoli Miso Soup Variations
Feel free to personalize your bowl of soup with these delightful twists that will excite your taste buds!
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Zucchini Swap: Replace broccoli with zucchini for a milder flavor and buttery texture that blends wonderfully.
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Spinach Boost: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach right before blending for a vibrant color and added nutrition.
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Garlic Levels: Adjust the garlic and ginger to your preference; doubling them will ramp up the warmth and aromatic fragrance.
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Heat it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick, elevating the comforting taste to a new level.
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Creamy Coconut: For a richer soup, integrate a splash of coconut milk after blending; it adds a luscious creaminess that you’ll love.
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Kale Blend: Incorporate kale into the mix for an extra fiber boost—just ensure it’s wilted down well for a smooth finish.
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Pea Variations: Use fresh peas in season instead of frozen for a burst of sweetness and a slightly different texture that’s simply divine.
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Miso Mix: Experiment with different types of miso, such as red or white, for varying umami depths and tastes that keep it interesting every time.
Pea and Broccoli Miso Soup Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to choose ripe broccoli?
Look for broccoli with tightly closed florets, vibrant green color, and firm stalks. Avoid heads with dark spots or yellowing, as these indicate overripeness. Fresh broccoli should feel robust and should not have a limp or wilted appearance.
How should I store leftover Pea and Broccoli Miso Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat in a pot or microwave before enjoying. Make sure to cool the soup completely before storing to preserve its freshness.
Can I freeze Pea and Broccoli Miso Soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers in individual portions. It’s best to freeze it within 2 hours of cooking. This soup can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
The soup turned out too thin; what can I do?
No worries! If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it up by adding more frozen peas. Simply blend in an additional cup, simmer it for a few minutes to ensure they’re heated through, and blend again until smooth. Alternatively, you can reduce the amount of water next time.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
This recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. However, if you or your guests have soy allergies, be cautious with miso paste—look for alternatives like tahini or nut butters to impart creaminess, although it will alter the flavor.
What’s the best way to personalize this soup?
Personalization is key! You can swap out broccoli for zucchini or spinach based on your tastes. Feel free to adjust the garlic and ginger levels for a milder or stronger flavor profile. To further enhance nutrition, mix in kale or leeks for a delightful twist. Enjoy experimenting!
Cozy Up with Pea and Broccoli Miso Soup for a Healthy Boost
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion, garlic, and ginger. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- In a large saucepan over high heat, add the coconut oil along with the chopped onion, ginger, and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Toss in the broccoli florets and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour in 4 cups of hot water and add the frozen peas. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the miso paste until it dissolves entirely. Cover and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and allow to cool for a few minutes. Blend the soup until smooth.
- Taste your soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed, reheat if cooled too much.