Hearty & Healthy Vegan Tomato & Carrot Soup: A Simple Winter Warmer

Inspired by: @welovenature

As winter casts its golden glow, there's nothing quite like a warm, nourishing bowl of homemade soup to bring comfort and joy. This easy, budget-friendly vegan tomato and carrot soup is the perfect answer to those chilly days, offering a burst of flavor and a wealth of nutrients without any fuss. Whether you're a seasoned plant-based eater or new to vegan cooking, this simple recipe is designed for everyone seeking a healthy, delicious meal that's kind to both your body and the planet.

This recipe is incredibly straightforward, utilizing common pantry staples like tinned tomatoes and root vegetables. It's a fantastic solution for meal prepping, offering multiple portions to enjoy throughout the week. Plus, with a focus on wholesome ingredients, you'll be enjoying a dish packed with essential antioxidants, calcium, protein, iron, minerals, and vitamins, contributing to a lower carbon footprint with every delicious spoonful.

Equipment You'll Need

• • Large saucepan
• • Sharp knife and cutting board
• • (Optional) Slow cooker

Ingredients

• • 1 large onion (finely chopped)
• • 2-3 large "wonky" carrots (peeled and chopped)
• • 1 large tin (approx. 400g) peeled chopped tomatoes
• • 2-3 cloves garlic (minced or finely chopped)
• • 1 tsp dried thyme
• • 1 bay leaf
• • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• • Seasoning (salt and black pepper to taste)
• • 2 vegetable stock cubes
• • Water (enough to cover ingredients, approximately 4-5 cups)

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, add a splash of cooking oil (such as olive oil or sunflower oil).
2. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped carrots and minced garlic, cooking for another 3-5 minutes until slightly tender.
4. Pour in the tinned peeled tomatoes, dried thyme, bay leaf, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine.
5. Crumble in the two vegetable stock cubes and add enough water to generously cover all the vegetables.
6. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the carrots are very tender and the flavors have melded.
7. Remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency, or carefully transfer to a regular blender (in batches) and blend until smooth.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot with a slice of crusty white bloomer bread for dipping.

All the wholesome ingredients ready for a delicious vegan soup.

The soup can be slow-cooked to deepen its flavors.

Variations & Adaptations

• For Extra Protein: Stir in a can of drained chickpeas or red lentils during the last 15 minutes of cooking for added protein and fiber.
• Boost the Greens: Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes for an extra nutrient boost.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a lovely kick.
• Creamy Texture: For a richer, creamier soup, stir in a spoonful of vegan cream cheese or a swirl of coconut cream just before serving.
• Gluten-Free Serving: This soup is naturally gluten-free! Serve with your favorite gluten-free bread or rice cakes.

Tips & Hacks

• Meal Prep Marvel: This soup is even more delicious the next day! Its flavors deepen beautifully. Make a larger batch (enough for 5-6 portions) and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days, or freeze for longer.
• Slow Cooker Magic: After sautéing the aromatics in the saucepan, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a hands-off, intensely flavorful result.
• Zero Waste Cooking: Don't discard "wonky" carrots! They taste just as good and help reduce food waste, contributing to that lower carbon footprint.
• Garnish for Glory: Enhance your serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a swirl of extra virgin olive oil, or some vegan croutons.

A comforting bowl of vegan tomato and carrot soup, ready to be enjoyed.

Freshly made, vibrant, and ready to warm your soul.

Related Articles

• Looking for more cozy bowls? Discover our Cozy Roasted Carrot, Parsnip & Potato Soup recipe.
• Craving another simple, hearty vegan meal? Try our Easy One-Pot Vegan Moroccan Chickpea & Vegetable Tagine.
• Explore another delightful soup: Easy Creamy Vegan Sweet Corn & Quinoa Soup.

We hope you love this simple, nutritious, and incredibly comforting soup! Let us know how your "winter gold" soup turns out in the comments below, or share your creations on abillion and tag us!