Description
Cozy up with this rich and flavorful Zuppa Toscana made with smoked turkey bacon and creamy plant-based ingredients. This soul-warming Italian-inspired soup features tender russet potatoes, nutrient-packed kale, and a luscious broth with a delightful blend of savory, spicy, and creamy notes perfect for a comforting meal any time of the day.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups kale leaves, chopped
- 1 cup plant-based cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 2 teaspoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, fry the chopped smoked turkey bacon until it becomes crisp and releases its flavorful fat, creating the savory foundation of the soup.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced yellow onions and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant, building depth in the broth.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Pour in the peeled and sliced russet potatoes along with the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, approximately 15 minutes.
- Mix in Kale and Seasonings: Stir in the chopped kale leaves, black pepper, salt, red pepper flakes, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). The kale will soften and infuse the soup with earthy notes.
- Finish with Plant-Based Cream and Apple Cider Vinegar (natural): Pour in the plant-based cream and a splash of apple cider vinegar (natural) to enrich the texture and brighten the flavors. Add the natural gelling agent if desired for a silky consistency. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
Notes
- Cook turkey bacon slowly to enhance flavor and avoid bitterness.
- Use starchy potatoes like russet for a creamy texture.
- Add kale late to retain vibrant color and tender leaves without mushiness.
- Season gradually, tasting and adjusting salt and pepper near the end.
- Use fresh garlic for the best fragrant punch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Zuppa Toscana, plant-based soup, turkey bacon soup, kale and potato soup, vegan creamy soup
