My Go-To Vegan Broth for Cold & Flu Season
If you’ve ever been knocked flat by a nasty cold or flu, you know that finding something soothing, nourishing, and easy on the tummy is a must. I’ve had my fair share of days where my head is pounding, my nose is a blocked-up mess, and I just want to curl up with something hot and healing. Sound familiar?
Recently, I came across a simple vegan broth recipe that really hit the spot, but as always, I couldn’t resist adding my own twist. I wanted to amp up the immune-boosting benefits and make it even more comforting for those days when you need a little extra TLC. This version is now my go-to, and I’m excited to share it with you!
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Why You’ll Love This Immune-Boosting Vegan Broth
This broth isn’t just another warm drink—it’s a comforting, nourishing vegan broth that supports your body when you need it most. Here’s why I think you should try it, even if you are not vegan:
Plant-Based and Allergy-Friendly: No dairy, no fuss with cooking the bones —just wholesome, vegan ingredients that work for a wide range of dietary needs and preferences.
Easy to Make: Minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a quick simmer mean you can whip this up even when you’re feeling wiped out.
Loaded with Immune Support: Every ingredient is chosen for its natural ability to soothe symptoms, reduce inflammation, and boost your body’s defenses.
Gentle on the Stomach: When you’re sick, heavy or rich foods can be tough to handle. This broth is light, hydrating, and easy to digest.
Delicious and Flavorful: With layers of umami from soy miso and nutritional yeast, warmth from ginger and turmeric, and a fresh zing from lemon and green onion, it’s a broth you’ll want to sip long after the sniffles are gone.
Change it Up as You Like: Add your favourite greens, mushrooms, or a drizzle of sesame oil to make it your own.
Whether you’re battling a cold, recovering from the flu, or just want to keep your immune system in top shape, this broth has got your back. It’s the kind of nourishing ritual that makes you feel cared for from the inside out.
Immune Boosting Vegan Broth for Health and Wellbeing
Ingredients
- 1.5 litres or 50 fl oz about 6 cups water
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons white or miso paste
- 1 large green onion spring onion, finely sliced—divide into two portions
- 1 thumb-sized piece fresh ginger sliced
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric powder or 1 tablespoon fresh grated turmeric
- 1 large clove garlic smashed
- 1-2 celery stalks sliced
- Juice of half a lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon chilli flakes or to taste, for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: A handful of baby spinach or kale a few sliced mushrooms, or a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavour
Instructions
- In a large pot, add a splash of water (or a little olive oil if you prefer) and gently sauté half of the sliced green onion, ginger, garlic, and celery for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the water, then add turmeric and nutritional yeast. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Let the broth simmer for about 20 minutes so the flavours can meld.
- Turn off the heat. In a small bowl, mix the miso paste with a ladleful of hot broth until smooth, then stir it back into the pot (this preserves the probiotics in the miso).
- Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re adding greens or mushrooms, toss them in now and let them wilt in the hot broth.
- Ladle the broth into mugs or bowls. Top with the reserved fresh green onion and a sprinkle of chilli flakes for a fresh, zesty kick. Add a drizzle of sesame oil if you like.
Why The Ingredients in this Vegan Broth Work Wonders
Let’s talk about why this isn’t just a tasty broth—it’s a little bowl of plant-powered medicine.
Nutritional Yeast
This is my secret weapon for a rich, “cheesy” flavor without any dairy. It’s loaded with B vitamins for energy and immune support, and it contains beta-glucans, which help your body fight off infections.
Miso Paste
Miso is a fermented food, so it’s packed with probiotics that support gut health (and a healthy gut means a stronger immune system). It’s also full of minerals and adds that deep umami flavor we all crave when we’re sick.
Green Spring Onion
Spring onions are high in antioxidants and vitamin C, which help reduce inflammation and support your immune system. Plus, they give the broth a fresh, zippy kick.
Chili Flakes
A little heat from chili flakes can help clear up sinus congestion and get things moving. Capsaicin, the compound that gives chili its kick, is also known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
Turmeric
Turmeric is famous for its anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to curcumin. It helps reduce aches and pains, and can even support your body’s natural healing process.
Ginger
Ginger is a classic for a reason. It’s soothing on sore throats, helps with nausea, and is a natural anti-inflammatory. It also adds a lovely warmth to the broth.
Garlic
Garlic is like nature’s antibiotic. It’s antiviral, antibacterial, and helps boost your immune system. It also gives the broth a comforting, savory depth.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice brightens up the broth and adds a hit of vitamin C, which is key for immune support and helps cut through mucus.
When you’re feeling under the weather, this vegan broth is a lifesaver. It’s simple, quick, and packed with ingredients that actually help your body recover. Even if you’re not sick, it’s a great way to boost your immune system and sneak in some extra nutrients. I love sipping a mug of this when I need a little extra TLC—or just want something warm and nourishing.
If you give this recipe a try, let me know how it goes! And if you have your own favorite cold and flu remedies, I’d love to hear about them in the comments.
Now it’s time to settle in with that hot cup of vegan broth and binge on your favorite Netflix show. You have a perfect excuse.
