Name: Creamy Potato Kale Soup
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 yellow onion-diced; 2 celery ribs-diced; 2 carrots-peeled and diced; 1 tbsp garlic-minced; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; 4 medium yukon gold potatoes- cubed; 1 bay leaf; 4 cups vegetable stock; 2 cups kale-shredded; 1 can coconut milk-full fat; salt and pepper to taste; optional red pepper flakes to taste

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This creamy potato kale soup is a wholesome and hearty dish full of healthy veggies and a creamy broth to warm you up and keep you full. The perfect blend of textures and flavors for a comforting plant-based meal in less than 30 minutes. I found myself recently craving a creamier and heartier version of a chicken noodle soup (sans chicken of course). After a few iterations, I came up with this recipe that takes all the goodness of a solid vegetable soup base and I added potatoes, kale, and rich coconut milk to create a nutrient-packed stick-to-your-ribs bowl of comfort.

There are few things more comforting than a bowl of soup. Especially, a warm creamy potato kale bowl of soup. Full of flavor, texture, and nutrient-rich ingredients, it’s the perfect companion to a soft couch, a good book, and some R&R.

Nutrition Spotlight

Before we get started cooking, let’s take a look at the featured ingredients and what they offer from a health perspective:

Coconut Milk: Other than being the perfect rich and creamy and even gluten-free base for a soup, coconut milk also provides essential nutrients, healthy fats, vitamins C, E, and B-complex vitamins, magnesium, potassium, and iron. Opt for unsweetened, full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest results without added sugars.
Carrot & Celery: These aromatic vegetables offer flavor, texture, and nutritional value. Carrots are renowned for their beta-carotene content, which the body converts into vitamin A and is essential for eye health and immune function. Celery is a good source of fiber, vitamin K, and antioxidants like apigenin and luteolin.
Kale: Our nutritional powerhouse, kale is a leafy green brimming with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s exceptionally rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin A, and manganese. Kale also contains compounds like glucosinolates and sulforaphane, which have anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties, making it a stellar addition to any diet.
Potato: The humble potato lends its creamy texture and are a great source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and dietary fiber. They are also relatively low in calories, making them a filling yet nutritious addition.
Broth: Whether homemade or store-bought, vegetable broth forms the flavorful foundation of our soup. It infuses the dish with depth and complexity while keeping it entirely plant-based. Vegetable broth is typically low in calories and fat, making it a suitable option for those watching their intake.
Onion: A staple in countless culinary creations, onions offer more than just flavor-enhancing properties. They are rich in antioxidants like quercetin and sulfur compounds that boast anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits. Onions also contain vitamin C, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber, adding nutritional value to our soup.

Vegan Creamy Potato Kale Soup

What sets this soup apart is its versatility and adaptability. While the basic recipe provides a solid foundation, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you prefer a hint of spice, a dash of tanginess, or a burst of umami, the possibilities are endless. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables to create your signature version of vegan creamy potato kale soup.

I personally enjoy more of a velvety smooth texture that harmoniously blends earthy potatoes, vibrant kale, and aromatic spices. I used an immersion blender before adding the coconut milk and kale to smooth out some of the veggies while still leaving whole pieces of potato, carrot, and celery for added depth and texture. The creamy coconut milk melds seamlessly with the tender potatoes, while the kale adds a delightful touch of green freshness to the mix.

Storage

If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine any soup enthusiast leaving a drop behind), this soup stores well in the fridge. Note: I don’t recommend freezing this soup due to the texture changes in the kale, but it is possible so I included those instructions below.

Transfer any unused portion to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days.
For longer-term storage, you can freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Customization and Dietary Adaptations

It’s a no-brainer that thick crusty bread pairs well with this meal. Try our simple rustic bread loaf for the perfect side, or try serving in these bread bowls for the ultimate comfort food.

Lots of customization options are possible, but we love serving these with crackers, topped with vegan cheese, dairy-free crema, or sour cream. For an extra crunch try vegan bacon, chickpeas, or croutons.

One of the great things about this soup is it’s already naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free. Just be sure to serve with gluten-free bread and sour cream and double check your broth is also gluten-free.

Try these related recipes:

Not Yo’ Mama’s Vegan Chili

Fall Harvest Salad

Vegan Bread Bowls

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