Vegan Carrot Potato Soup hero shot in a white bowl with cashew cream and thyme, rustic bread on the side

Vegan Carrot Potato Soup: Creamy Comfort in Just 30 Minutes

The first time I made Vegan Carrot Potato Soup, the kitchen was humming with the soft patter of spring rain against the window. My daughter had just come home from college—her arms full of thrifted cookbooks, her cheeks pink from the chill outside. She asked for something warm and soothing, but also light enough to welcome the new season.

I remembered the classic potato soup my grandmother used to make, always creamy and comforting, but decidedly not vegan. That day, we set out to reinvent it, swapping cream for cashews and adding carrots for a touch of natural sweetness. The result was a bowlful of nostalgia, with a new, plant-based twist.

There’s something about the aroma of onions sizzling in olive oil, mingling with the earthy sweetness of carrots and potatoes, that instantly grounds me. As the soup simmered, the kitchen filled with a cozy, savory scent that reminded me of family dinners and after-school snacks—a familiar comfort but updated for our modern, veggie-loving lives.

I still remember my daughter’s delighted surprise at how creamy the Vegan Carrot Potato Soup turned out, thanks to that quick-blended cashew cream. It became our rainy-day ritual, a recipe we made together when we needed a simple, nourishing meal that didn’t take all afternoon. Even now, when I make this soup, I’m transported back to that day—chopping, tasting, and laughing together in the warm kitchen.

If you’ve ever stood in your own kitchen, searching for something both wholesome and soul-soothing, this Vegan Carrot Potato Soup is my answer to that longing. It’s flexible, forgiving, and comes together in just 30 minutes, even if you forget to soak the cashews (I’ve included a quick-soak method for fellow forgetful cooks). Whether you’re new to vegan soups or a seasoned pro, I hope this recipe brings you the same comfort it brings my family. And if you’re in the mood for more cozy vegan meals, you might also love my Creamy Vegan Tomato Soup or Spiced Sweet Potato Stew, both favorites on rainy days just like this one.

Fresh ingredients for Vegan Carrot Potato Soup, ready to cook

Also Read: Loaded Potato Soup That Tastes Like a Cozy Night In

How To Make It

Sautéing onions, carrots, and celery for Vegan Carrot Potato Soup.

(Mix & Ingredients)

Making Vegan Carrot Potato Soup is all about simple steps and pantry-friendly ingredients coming together for a bowl of pure comfort. I start by warming olive oil in a big Dutch oven—if you’re like me, this is the pot you reach for when you want something hearty and homey. Into the shimmering oil go diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery, the classic trio that forms the backbone of so many cozy soups. I let them sizzle and soften, filling the kitchen with that unmistakable “soup’s on!” aroma. Once the veggies have relaxed, in goes a generous spoonful of minced garlic and a sprinkle of thyme—don’t be shy with the stirring here, as it helps coax out every bit of flavor.

Next, it’s time for the potatoes. For this Vegan Carrot Potato Soup, I use russets, peeled and cubed into hearty half-inch chunks. They soak up the flavors as the broth comes to a gent

Adding minced garlic and thyme to the sautéed vegetables.

le boil. I toss in a bay leaf for a subtle herbal note and let everything simmer away until the vegetables are tender enough to yield to a spoon—about 20 minutes. While the soup bubbles, I turn my attention to the secret weapon: creamy cashew “cream.” If you forgot to soak your cashews, don’t panic—a quick soak in boiling water works wonders. Once soft, I blend the cashews with water until velvety smooth.

Then, I ladle a cup of hot soup into the blender, add a bright splash of lemon juice, and blend again until everything is silky and golden. This luscious mixture gets stirred back into the pot, transforming the soup into a creamy dream, all without a drop of dairy.

Don’t forget to taste and season with salt and pepper at the end. I love how this soup manages to be both simple and deeply satisfying, with every bite tasting like a hug from the inside out. If you’re after more plant-based comfort, my Creamy Vegan Broccoli Soup or Roasted Sweet Potato Soup might be right up your alley, too. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out in the kitchen, you’ll find this Vegan Carrot Potato Soup is as easy to make as it is delightful to eat.

Adding cubed potatoes and broth to the pot.

Make-Ahead & Storage

One of the best things about this Vegan Carrot Potato Soup is how beautifully it fits into busy routines. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just want a comforting dinner ready in a snap, this soup is a real lifesaver. You can make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy its creamy, cozy flavors all week long—just like I did during those hectic winters when my kids were in three different after-school activities! The flavors actually deepen after a day in the fridge, letting the sweet carrots and earthy potatoes mingle with the thyme and bay leaf for an even richer taste.

To store your Vegan Carrot Potato Soup, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you’re making this ahead for a gathering or easy lunches, portioning the soup into individual containers makes grab-and-go meals a breeze. For longer storage, this soup also freezes beautifully. I recommend dividing it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (leave a little space at the top for expansion), then label with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens a bit after chilling, just add a splash of vegetable broth or water while reheating to bring back its velvety texture.

One quick tip: If you plan to freeze the soup, consider blending in the cashew cream after thawing and reheating. This little trick helps preserve the soup’s ultra-creamy mouthfeel, especially if you’re a texture lover like me. And if you’re looking for more vegan comfort soups that store well, my Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup or Creamy Vegan Tomato Soup are both fantastic make-ahead options. With a little planning, you’ll always have a bowl of plant-based comfort waiting for you—no matter how busy life gets.

Best Ingredients & Party Variations

When it comes to making the best Vegan Carrot Potato Soup, the secret is all in the quality and freshness of your ingredients. I always start with firm, brightly colored carrots—the fresher, the better, as they bring a natural sweetness that shines through in every spoonful. Yukon Gold or russet potatoes give the soup that signature creamy texture, while a good yellow onion and crisp celery lay down a savory base. Don’t skip the garlic and dried thyme; together, they fill your kitchen with a cozy aroma that will have everyone peeking in to see what’s cooking. For the broth, I prefer a low-sodium vegetable stock so I can control the salt, and I always recommend soaking your cashews ahead of time for the silkiest, dairy-free finish. If you’re short on time, the quick-soak method works wonders and keeps prep stress-free.

Now, let’s talk about turning this Vegan Carrot Potato Soup into a true crowd-pleaser, especially for parties or family gatherings. For a fun twist, try stirring in a handful of baby spinach in the last few minutes for a pop of color and extra nutrients. If you love a little heat, a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne can add warmth without overpowering the delicate flavors—just the thing for a chilly evening.

When I hosted a casual soup night last winter, I set out bowls of toppings like toasted pumpkin seeds, chopped fresh herbs, and a swirl of vegan sour cream, letting guests customize their bowls. You could even serve this soup in small mugs as a starter for a cozy dinner party, right alongside warm slices of my vegan cornbread or a rustic no-knead bread. Whether you keep it classic or add your own flair, this soup is endlessly adaptable—just like all my favorite comfort recipes.

Vegan Carrot Potato Soup served with cashew cream and rustic bread.

FAQ’s About Vegan Carrot Potato Soup

Can I make Vegan Carrot Potato Soup with just carrots and potatoes?

Absolutely! If you want to keep things ultra-simple, you can make a basic version of vegan carrot potato soup using just carrots, potatoes, and broth. However, adding aromatics like onion, garlic, and celery—plus a splash of cashew cream—takes the flavor and texture to a whole new level. The extras add depth, sweetness, and a creamy finish that’s hard to beat. Don’t worry if your pantry is looking sparse; even the pared-down version is cozy and comforting. Just be sure to season well with salt and pepper to bring out those natural veggie flavors.

Is vegan carrot potato soup healthy?

Yes, vegan carrot potato soup is a fantastic healthy option! It’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the carrots, potatoes, and celery. The cashews add a dose of plant-based protein and healthy fats, making the soup more satisfying. Plus, there’s no dairy or heavy cream involved, keeping things light but still creamy. It’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies and nourish your body, all in one bowl.

What makes this Vegan Carrot Potato Soup creamy without dairy?

The secret to the luscious, creamy texture is blended cashews. Soaked cashews blend up silky-smooth and mimic the richness of cream, but they’re totally dairy-free and vegan. When mixed into the soup, they add body and a subtle nuttiness without overpowering the bright carrot and earthy potato flavors. If you have a nut allergy, you can try using cooked white beans or a splash of coconut milk for a similar creamy effect. It’s a clever little trick I use often for vegan soups!

Can I freeze Vegan Carrot Potato Soup for later?

Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers, leaving a little room at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, stirring well to restore its creamy consistency. If it thickens up too much after freezing, just add a splash of veggie broth or water as you reheat. Homemade soup on standby makes busy weeknights so much easier!

Conclusion

When I think back to the many bowls of Vegan Carrot Potato Soup I’ve ladled out in my kitchen, I’m reminded of laughter echoing around my dinner table and the quiet comfort of a rainy afternoon. There’s something magical about how simple ingredients—humble carrots, creamy potatoes, a swirl of coconut milk—can come together to create a soup that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re cooking for family, sharing with friends, or just treating yourself to a little self-care, this recipe has a way of bringing people together and turning everyday moments into something special.

I hope you’ll find as much joy in making (and slurping!) this soup as I do. Don’t be afraid to make it your own: toss in extra herbs, add a swirl of chili oil, or serve it alongside your favorite crusty bread. Most importantly, have fun with it, and remember that the best meals are the ones made with love—even if they’re whipped up in just 30 minutes.

If you try this Vegan Carrot Potato Soup, I’d love to hear how it brought a little coziness to your day. For more cozy, approachable recipes that make every meal a memory, follow us on Facebook and Pinterest!

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Vegan Carrot Potato Soup: Creamy Comfort in Just 30 Minutes


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  • Author: Abby Martin
  • Total Time: 45
  • Yield: 8 cups 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This creamy vegan carrot potato soup is incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple to make. Enjoy this veggie-packed soup for a healthy twist on a classic comfort food recipe.


Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, diced

3 large carrots, peeled and chopped

3 celery ribs, chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

2 medium russet potatoes (about 12 oz), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch chunks

4 cups vegetable broth

1 bay leaf

1/2 cup cashews, soaked for 4 hours

1/2 cup water (for blending cashews)

1 teaspoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper


Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 6 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Add garlic, thyme, and potatoes. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

3. Pour in vegetable broth and add bay leaf. Bring to a boil.

4. Reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Remove and discard bay leaf.

5. While soup simmers, blend soaked cashews with 1/2 cup water until smooth and creamy.

6. Add 1 cup of the hot soup to the blender with cashew cream and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.

7. Stir the blended mixture back into the pot with the rest of the soup.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

Notes

To quick-soak cashews, cover with boiling water and let sit for 10 minutes; drain before blending.

Soup thickens as it cools; add a splash of broth or water to thin when reheating.

  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 30
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 1/3 cup
  • Calories: 185 kcal
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 480 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

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