The Gourmet Vegan

FRAGRANT GOLDEN SPRING VEGETABLE SOUP - SERVES 4

This wonderfully fragrant and great tasting soup is very quick to prepare and very low in calories. Serve with some crusty bread for lunch or as a starter to a bigger meal.

INGREDIENTS

1 teaspoon vitalite, or other vegan spread

2 medium carrots, peeled and diced

60g green beans, chopped

1 medium stick celery, finely chopped

1 medium yellow bell pepper, diced

1 medium leek, finely chopped

1 small potato, diced (soak in water until ready to use)

1 litre vegetable stock

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1/4 teaspoon turmeric

2 bay leaves

3 whole star anise

1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon agave nectar

1 tablespoon kelpamare or soy sauce

Handful chopped fresh basil

METHOD

Over a medium heat, fry all of the vegetables, except the potatoes, in the vitalite for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Turn the heat to low and cover, and cook for a further 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the vegetables to sweat.

Next add the stock and all other ingredients, bring to a simmer, cover and cook for a further 10 minutes.

Stir in the fresh basil and serve.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING

Calories - 76, Carbohydrates - 15.4g, Protein - 2.6g, Fat - 1.4g