5 nuts to add to your vegetarian soup
What's the story
Vegetarian soups are a delicious way to get your daily dose of nutrients, but adding nuts can make them even better. Nuts not only add a crunchy texture but also a whole lot of nutrients including proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins. Here are five nuts that can make your vegetarian soups tastier and healthier.
#1
Almonds: A protein powerhouse
Almonds are loaded with protein, making them an excellent choice for vegetarian soups. They are also rich in vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant. Adding almonds to your soup can improve its nutritional profile significantly. You can either add sliced almonds or almond butter for a creamy texture that goes well with many vegetable-based broths.
#2
Walnuts: Omega-3 rich addition
Walnuts are famous for their omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. They also have antioxidants that help fight inflammation. Adding walnuts to your vegetarian soup not only enhances its flavor but also adds to the health benefits. Chopped walnuts can be sprinkled on top of the soup or blended in for a smooth consistency.
#3
Cashews: Creamy texture enhancer
Cashews are known for their creamy texture when blended, making them an ideal addition to vegetarian soups. They are also rich in magnesium and zinc, which are important for bone health and immune function. Soaking cashews before blending them makes them even creamier, giving your soup a rich texture without the use of dairy products.
#4
Pecans: Sweet and nutty flavor boost
Pecans lend a sweet and nutty flavor to vegetarian soups, elevating the taste without overpowering it. They are rich in monounsaturated fats that promote heart health. Pecans can be added whole or chopped, depending on the desired texture. Their natural oils also add depth to the broth when cooked slowly.
#5
Hazelnuts: Unique earthy notes
Hazelnuts add unique earthy notes to vegetarian soups, making them more complex in flavor. They are rich in vitamin B6 and folate, which are important for energy production and brain function. Toasting hazelnuts before adding them to your soup enhances their flavor profile further by bringing out their natural oils.