Description
A warming, immune-boosting garlic soup packed with vegetables, quinoa, and fresh aromatics—perfect for soothing colds and providing comfort.
Ingredients
For the soup base:
- 1 large carrot (finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces)
- 1/2 cup quinoa (rinsed thoroughly)
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 5 cremini mushroom caps (finely chopped)
- 1/8 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 large onion (chopped into 1/2-inch pieces)
- 5 garlic cloves (freshly minced)
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- Salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh coriander (freshly chopped)
To finish:
- 3 garlic cloves (freshly minced)
- 1 cup kale (finely shredded)
Instructions
1. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water and set aside to remove its bitter coating.
2. Chop the onion into 1/2-inch pieces, mince 5 garlic cloves, dice the carrot into 1/4-inch pieces, finely chop the mushroom caps, shred the kale, mince the remaining 3 garlic cloves, and chop the coriander.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, 5 minced garlic cloves, ground turmeric, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and a small pinch of salt.
4. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
5. Add the diced carrot, chopped mushrooms, and fresh coriander to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed quinoa. Stir well to combine.
7. Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the quinoa is tender.
8. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
9. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded kale and the 3 freshly minced garlic cloves.
10. Let the soup sit uncovered for 1-2 minutes to gently soften the kale and allow the raw garlic to infuse its flavor.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed. Serve warm.
Notes
Use freshly minced garlic for the most potent flavor and health benefits.
Add fresh lemon juice before serving for extra brightness and vitamin C.
This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen for longer storage.
Feel free to swap quinoa with cooked brown rice if preferred.