Chicken Noodle Soup

Gluten-free option, Nut-free option, Soy-free option

Remember that canned chicken noodle soup you ate growing up? This is like that, but much better. For this chicken less recipe, you’ll use Steamed Seitan or your favorite vegan store-bought alternative. This “Chicken” Noodle Soup is a family favorite; it’s even approved by our picky, nonvegan brothers. Pair it with our Garlic Bread Grilled or Pesto Mozzarella Melt.

Chicken noodle soup is not only delicious but also known for its potential to help alleviate cold or flu symptoms due to its warmth and hydration. Whether you enjoy it when you’re feeling unwell or simply savor it as a delightful meal, chicken noodle soup remains a timeless favorite on many tables around the world.

PREP TIME: 15 minutes

COOK TIME: 20 to 25 minutes

YIELD: 8 to 10 servings

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 tbsp (14 g) vegan butter (nut-free and/or soy-free if needed)
• 1 large sweet onion, chopped (about 1 heaping cup [200 g])
• 2 cups (202 g) diced celery
• 2 cups (256 g) chopped carrot
• 10 oz (283 g) Steamed Seitan, chopped (about 2 cups), or 1 (10-oz [283-g]) bag vegan “chicken” strips, chopped (gluten-free and/or soy-free if needed)
• 6 cloves garlic, peeled and minced, or 2 tbsp (18 g) jarred minced garlic
• 12 cups (2.8 L) vegetable broth, plus more as needed
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp dried parsley, or 3 tbsp (11 g) chopped fresh parsley, plus more for topping
• 1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
• ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
• 2 bay leaves
• 8 oz (226 g) uncooked fusilli pasta or pasta of choice (gluten-free if needed)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large stockpot, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
2. Add the onion, celery, and carrot. Cook, stirring often, for 5 to 7 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped seitan. Cook, stirring often, for 5 to 7 more minutes.
4. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant.
5. Stir in the broth, oregano, garlic powder, parsley, salt, pepper, and bay leaves.
6. Increase the heat to high and cover, bringing the mixture to a boil.
7. Add the pasta and boil, uncovered, for 7 to 12 minutes, or until al dente (this will vary depending on the type of pasta—you can check the package for an estimated time).
8. Once the noodles are done cooking, remove the pot from the heat.
9. Remove and discard the bay leaves. Taste and add more salt and pepper, if desired.
10. Serve hot topped with more parsley.

TIPS:

• Our favorite broth for this recipe is Better Than Bouillon Vegetarian No Chicken Base plus water, prepared according to the package instructions.
• Once the soup is done and begins to sit, the noodles will absorb some of the broth. You may want to add extra broth, as needed, if you don’t eat the soup right away.