Immune Boosting Broccoli Almond Soup

A creamy dairy-free healthy alternative to broccoli cheese soup that strengthens your immune system! This Kaufmann 1 Broccoli Almond soup will yield 8 servings.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups sliced almonds – toasted and divided
2 tablespoons butter or oil
4 garlic cloves – whole
1 large yellow onion – large dice
2 cups zucchini (about 2 medium) – large dice
4 cups vegetable broth (32 oz box of broth)
1 piece kombu (optional, no taste) Sea vegetable, packed with essential minerals
2 pieces astragalus (optional, no taste) a root that strengthens immune system
4 cups broccoli – cut into small florets
2 cups unsweetened almond milk
2/3 cups fresh parsley – packed down
1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

Directions

Toast almonds over medium-low heat until lightly browned and fragrant about 5 minutes, stir often and watch closely!

In a large soup pot, melt the butter (oil) over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, and sweat without browning for 5 minutes.

Add the zucchini, veggie broth and kombu and astragalus if using.

Bring to a boil, then down to a simmer (low heat) for 10 minutes and cover with lid.

Add the broccoli and 1 cup of almonds (reserve the rest for garnish); continue to cook for 15 minutes or until the broccoli and almonds are soft.

Add the almond milk and parsley. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

With tongs remove the astragalus. Use an immersion hand blender and blend until smooth or blend in a blender in small batches Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Sprinkle extra almonds on top and serve.

Quick notes
This soup freezes great! You can find kombu in the Asian section at most health food stores. Astragalus root looks like tongue compressors and can be found at some health food stores and online. These are both powerhouses for your immune system and an easy way to add nutrition to your diet. You can grind the kombu in a nut and spice grinder and leave in the soup or just put a piece in and take it out before pureeing. Immersion blenders are a must have for your kitchen! They are inexpensive and are great for soups, smoothie and sauces. You can find them at Bed Bath and Beyond or almost anywhere these days.

Number of servings (yield): 8