Delicious Vegan Broccoli Recipes to Try Today

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy way to incorporate more plant-based options into your diet, then broccoli recipes vegan is the perfect place to start. Broccoli is not only packed with essential nutrients, but it’s also extremely versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. From soups and salads to stir-fries and pastas, there are countless ways to enjoy this cruciferous vegetable in vegan recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just trying to eat more plant-based meals, these tasty broccoli recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body.

What Is Broccoli

Broccoli is a green vegetable that belongs to the cruciferous family, which also includes kale, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. It has a distinctive shape, with a large flower head that is surrounded by thick stalks.

Broccoli has been around for over 2,000 years and was first cultivated in Italy. It’s a cool-season crop that grows best in temperatures between 60°F and 70°F. Today, it’s grown all over the world, with China being the largest producer.

One of the reasons broccoli is so popular is its nutritional value. It’s packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins C and K, fiber, and more. In fact, one cup of cooked broccoli contains:

• 55 calories
• 11 grams of carbs
• 5 grams of protein
• 4 grams of fiber
• 220% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C
• 192% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin K

Why Is Broccoli a Great Ingredient for Vegans

Being a vegan means that you need to rely on plant-based foods to get all the nutritional benefits your body needs. One of the essential ingredients for vegans is broccoli. This cruciferous vegetable is loaded with essential vitamins and minerals and can easily be included in various vegan dishes.

Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse for vegans as it contains several essential vitamins and minerals. Here are some of the nutritional benefits of broccoli:

• Low in Calories: Broccoli is low in calories and can be eaten in large quantities without worrying about gaining weight.
• High in Fiber: Broccoli is high in fiber, which promotes digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer periods.
• Source of Protein: Although not a primary source of protein, broccoli contains a reasonable amount of protein that makes it a great ingredient for vegans.
• Vitamins: Broccoli is rich in different vitamins, including vitamin C, K, and A, which boosts the immune system and helps in growth and development.
• Minerals: Broccoli contains essential minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and iron that are necessary for maintaining optimal health.

Including Broccoli in Vegan Meals

Broccoli can be included in different vegan dishes, from stir-fries to salads. Here are some ways to add broccoli to your vegan meals:

• Stir-Fries: Add broccoli to your vegan stir-fry for a nutrient-dense meal. Sauté the broccoli with other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions.
• Salads: Broccoli makes a great addition to any vegan salad. Toss broccoli with other leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and a tangy dressing for a healthy and satisfying meal.
• Soups: Broccoli can be pureed and added to soups to provide a creamy texture and extra nutrients.
• Roasted: Roasting broccoli enhances its flavor and provides a crispy texture. Add some seasoning and roast the broccoli in the oven for a tasty and healthy snack.

In conclusion, broccoli is a great vegan ingredient due to its low calorie, high fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals content. This cruciferous vegetable can easily be included in different vegan dishes, and its health benefits make it an excellent addition to your daily diet.

Top 5 Broccoli Vegan Recipes to Try

Going vegan doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your favorite meals. In fact, many vegan dishes are delicious and can satisfy even the most discerning palate. One of the main staples of vegan cuisine is broccoli, which is packed with nutrients and vitamins. Whether you are a seasoned vegan or simply looking for a new dish to try, these top five broccoli vegan recipes are sure to please.

Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup

If you love the creamy taste of cheddar soup but want a vegan alternative, this recipe is perfect for you. The combination of broccoli and cashew cream provides the perfect balance of flavor and creaminess.

• Ingredients:
• 2 cups chopped broccoli
• 1/2 cup cashews, soaked for 4 hours
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Instructions:
• Drain the cashews and blend them with 1/2 cup of water until smooth.
• Sauté the onion and garlic until the onion is translucent.
• Add the broccoli and sauté for another 5 minutes.
• Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
• Add the cashew cream, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, and salt. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
• Let simmer for another 5 minutes until the soup thickens slightly. Serve hot and enjoy!

Vegan Broccoli Stir Fry

Stir fry is one of the most versatile dishes in the vegan repertoire. You can use any vegetable you like along with some tofu and soy sauce for a quick and delicious meal.

• Ingredients:
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 package firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• Instructions:
• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the tofu and broccoli and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch.
• Add the sauce to the skillet and continue stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the broccoli is tender.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Vegan Broccoli Salad

Broccoli salad is a classic summer dish that is both healthy and delicious. This vegan version replaces the traditional bacon and mayonnaise with tempeh and a tangy vinaigrette.

• Ingredients:
• 2 cups chopped broccoli
• 1/2 cup chopped tempeh
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove minced garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, tempeh, red onion, carrots, and almonds.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, olive oil, and maple syrup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Toss the dressing with the broccoli salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Enjoy your refreshing and healthy vegan broccoli salad!

Vegan Broccoli Tofu Curry

If you love Indian cuisine, you will love this vegan broccoli tofu curry recipe. The combination of coconut milk and curry powder provides the perfect balance of spice and creaminess.

• Ingredients:
• 2 cups chopped broccoli
• 1 package of firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of minced garlic
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent.
• Add the tofu and broccoli and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
• Add the curry powder and stir until well combined.
• Pour in the coconut milk and stir until the milk is heated through.
• Let simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the curry has thickened and the tofu and broccoli are tender.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot with rice or quinoa.

Vegan Broccoli Quiche

A quiche is a perfect dish to serve for breakfast or brunch. This vegan version replaces the eggs with tofu and adds broccoli for a protein-packed and nutritious meal.

• Ingredients:
• 1 prepared pie crust
• 1 package firm tofu, drained
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cups chopped broccoli
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat the oven to 375 F.
• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent.
• Add the broccoli and sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
• In a food processor, combine the tofu, nutritional yeast, turmeric, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Puree until smooth.
• Roll the prepared pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan. Add the sautéed broccoli and onion mixture to the bottom of the crust.
• Pour the tofu mixture over the broccoli and onion mixture.
• Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
• Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

These top five broccoli vegan recipes are perfect for anyone looking to incorporate healthy and delicious vegan meals into their diet. Whether you’re craving a creamy soup, a savory stir fry, a refreshing salad, a spicy curry, or a protein-packed quiche, these recipes have got you covered. Try one today and enjoy all the benefits of a nutritious and satisfying vegan meal.

How to Cook Broccoli for Vegan Recipes

Broccoli is a nutritious green vegetable that is a popular ingredient in vegan recipes. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. When cooking broccoli, it is important to preserve its nutrients as much as possible. Broccoli can be cooked in various ways, but the best methods for preserving its nutrients are steaming and sautéing. Here are some tips for how to cook broccoli for vegan recipes.

Steaming Broccoli

Steaming broccoli is a great way to cook it while preserving its nutrients. Here’s how to do it:

1. Cut the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. Rinse them under cold water.
2. Fill a pot with about an inch of water. Place a steamer basket at the bottom of the pot.
3. Place the broccoli florets in the steamer basket. Cover the pot with a lid.
4. Heat the pot on medium-high heat and let the broccoli steam for about 5 minutes. Check the broccoli for doneness. It should be bright green and crisp-tender.
5. Remove the broccoli from the steamer basket and serve immediately.

Sautéing Broccoli

Sautéing broccoli is another great way to cook it for vegan recipes. Here’s how:

1. Cut the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. Rinse them under cold water.
2. Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Sauté the broccoli for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is bright green and tender-crisp.
4. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and serve immediately.

Using Broccoli Stalks

Broccoli stalks are often discarded, but they are edible and can be used in vegan recipes. Here are some ideas:

Idea	How to Prepare	How to Use
Broccoli Rice	Peel the tough outer layer of the stalks. Chop the stalks into small pieces.	Pulse the chopped stalks in a food processor until they resemble rice. Cook the broccoli rice as you would regular rice.
Broccoli Slaw	Peel the tough outer layer of the stalks. Slice the stalks thinly.	Toss the sliced stalks with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a vegan dressing of your choice for a crunchy slaw.
Broccoli Soup	Chop the stalks and florets into small pieces.	Sauté some onions and garlic in a pot. Add the chopped broccoli, vegetable broth, and seasonings. Simmer until the broccoli is tender. Blend the soup until smooth.

These are just some of the many ways you can use broccoli stalks in your vegan recipes. Don’t let them go to waste!

Vegan Alternative Ingredients for Broccoli Recipes

For vegans, finding the right ingredients for their recipes can be a struggle. Especially when trying to find the right alternative to broccoli. Thankfully there are some great vegan alternative ingredients available that can provide just as much flavor and nutrition. Here are five great alternatives to broccoli that you can use to create delicious vegan recipes:

Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a great alternative to broccoli as it is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin C, folate, vitamin K, and vitamin B6. It is low in calories, fat, and carbohydrates, making it perfect for any vegan diet. When used in a recipe in place of broccoli, cauliflower can add a creaminess and a nutty flavor to the dish. It can also be boiled, roasted, or steamed, and can be used in soups, stir-fries, or as a side dish.

Brussels sprouts

Brussels sprouts are another great alternative to broccoli. They are high in fiber, vitamins C, K, and A, as well as numerous other nutrients that make them a popular choice in many vegan recipes. They can be roasted, steamed, or boiled, and can be added to salads or used as a side dish. Brussels sprouts are also great for those who are looking for a low calorie and low carb option.

Bok choy

Bok choy is a nutritious leafy vegetable that contains high levels of calcium, iron, vitamin C, and other nutrients. It is an excellent alternative to broccoli as it has a similar texture and can be used in salads, stir-fries, or as a side dish. Bok choy has a slightly peppery taste that can be perfect in Asian-inspired vegan dishes. It is also easy to prepare and can be sautéed, stir-fried, or steamed.

Kale

Kale is one of the most popular vegetables used in vegan and vegetarian recipes. It has a rich, earthy flavor and is packed full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It can be eaten raw in salads, added to soups and stews, or steamed as a side dish. Kale can be used in many different ways and can be easily substituted for broccoli in many recipes. It is also low in calories and high in fiber, making it perfect for those who are looking to lose weight.

Cabbage

Cabbage is another great choice for those who are looking for a vegan alternative to broccoli. It is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and other nutrients. Cabbage can be boiled, steamed, stir-fried, or baked, and can be used in a number of vegan recipes. It has a slightly sweet taste that can complement many different flavors. Cabbage is also very versatile and can be used in salads or as a side dish.

FAQs

Can I freeze broccoli for future use in vegan dishes?

Yes, you can freeze broccoli for future use in vegan dishes. Begin by washing the broccoli florets and cutting them into bite-size pieces. Then, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water for another 2-3 minutes. Drain off the excess water and place them in airtight freezer bags or containers. Label them with the date and store them in the freezer for up to 8 months. Thaw the frozen broccoli florets before using in vegan dishes.

Is broccoli available all year round?

Yes, broccoli is available all year round, although the peak season is from October to April in most regions. This is because broccoli is a cool-season crop and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F.

How can I make my broccoli dishes more flavorful as a vegan?

Vegan broccoli dishes can be made more flavorful by using aromatic spices and herbs such as garlic, ginger, cumin, and thyme. Additionally, you can add some umami-rich ingredients such as mushrooms, miso paste, or soy sauce. Another option is to use plant-based milks such as almond or coconut milk to add richness and creaminess to the dishes. Lastly, roasting the broccoli in the oven with some olive oil and sea salt can bring out its natural sweetness and add a crispy texture, making it more appealing to the taste buds.

What other vegan ingredients can I use in my broccoli dishes?

There are numerous vegan ingredients that can be used in broccoli dishes to enhance their flavor and nutrition. These include tofu, tempeh, legumes such as chickpeas or lentils, whole grains such as quinoa or brown rice, nuts and seeds such as almonds or sesame seeds, and a variety of vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and onions. Mixing these ingredients in different combinations can create a diverse range of vegan broccoli dishes that are both satisfying and nutritious.

How can I store my broccoli after purchase to keep them fresh?

To keep your broccoli fresh after purchase, store it in a perforated plastic bag or a covered container in the refrigerator’s vegetable compartment. Ensure that the broccoli heads are dry and not exposed to moisture, which can cause mold and spoilage. Broccoli can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Avoid washing the broccoli until you are ready to use it to preserve its crispness and nutritional value.

How can I reuse my leftover broccoli stems?

Broccoli stems are often discarded, but they are edible and have a milder flavor than the florets. Try slicing them thinly and adding them to stir-fries, soups, or salads. Alternatively, you can peel off the tough outer layer, chop them up, and use them in place of other vegetables in recipes such as fritters or casseroles.

Happy Vegan Cooking with Broccoli!

Thank you for reading about broccoli recipes vegan! We hope that you feel inspired to try out some of these plant-based recipes in your own kitchen. The versatility of broccoli never ceases to amaze us and we love how easy it is to incorporate into a vegan diet. Be sure to visit us again soon for more delicious and nutritious vegan food ideas. Happy cooking!