Inspired by: @iszy
Discover how a simple pantry staple, crushed tomatoes, can transform your weeknight cooking into a delicious and effortless experience. This recipe for Vegan Enchilada Soup is not only incredibly easy to make but also bursts with flavor, proving that healthy, plant-based meals can be both quick and satisfying. Perfect for busy evenings or a cozy weekend, this dairy-free, gluten-free friendly soup is about to become your new go-to.
Are you searching for a hearty yet hassle-free vegan soup that delivers on taste? Do you love Mexican-inspired flavors but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen? This article is for you! It highlights the magic of keeping crushed tomatoes on hand, making it incredibly simple to whip up a rich, flavorful base for soups and sauces without any extra blending or chopping.
Why Crushed Tomatoes Are Your Pantry's Best Friend
The secret to this recipe's simplicity lies in the crushed tomatoes. As noted by abillion user @iszy, this product is "a great product to always keep on hand" because "they can easily be added to sauces and soups without the need to blend." Their already broken-down texture means less prep work for you, allowing for a smooth and consistent base for your favorite dishes, especially creamy, flavorful soups like enchilada soup.
Easy Crushed Tomato Base for Vegan Enchilada Soup
This recipe focuses on creating a versatile and flavorful tomato base that’s perfect for building your ultimate vegan enchilada soup, chili, or even a quick pasta sauce.
Ingredients (for a versatile tomato base)
- 1 large can of chopped tomatoes (crushed is ideal, but chopped works beautifully too!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- (Optional, for classic Enchilada Soup flavor): 1-2 tablespoons chili powder, 1/2 cup vegetable broth
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic, cumin, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Pour in the can of chopped tomatoes. If making enchilada soup, stir in the chili powder and vegetable broth now.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it cook for at least 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- For Enchilada Soup: Use this rich tomato base as the foundation. Add cooked black beans, corn, or your favorite vegan protein. Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of vegan sour cream for a complete meal.
Variations & Adaptations
This base is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas to customize your creation:
- Make it Spicy: For an extra kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce while simmering.
- Add Creaminess: Stir in a swirl of coconut cream or a tablespoon of vegan cream cheese for a richer, more indulgent texture.
- Boost the Protein: Incorporate cooked chickpeas, lentils, crumbled firm tofu, or vegan ground "meat" for an even heartier meal.
- Naturally Gluten-Free: This recipe is inherently gluten-free. Just ensure any additional toppings, like corn tortillas for serving, are certified gluten-free.
Tips & Hacks for Crushed Tomato Lovers
- Pantry Powerhouse: Crushed tomatoes are a versatile pantry staple that can be used for so much more than soup – think flavorful salsa, quick pasta sauces, or a robust chili base.
- No Blending Needed: The pre-crushed texture saves you precious time and effort in the kitchen, making them ideal for truly smooth soups and sauces without extra steps.
- Batch Cooking Friendly: Make a large batch of this simple tomato base and freeze portions in airtight containers. It's perfect for super-fast future meals on busy days.
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Ready to transform your dinner routine? Give this easy crushed tomato base a try for your next enchilada soup or any other flavorful dish! Share your culinary creations and tag abillion on social media – we love seeing what you cook up!
