Vegetable Broth

N/A (Plant-based Liquid Base) Liquid Base & Pantry Staple

Vegetable Broth Liquid Base & Pantry Staple

At a Glance

  • Category Liquid Base & Pantry Staple

The Forktionary Angle

"The essential plant-based workhorse, providing savory depth without meat, making it indispensable for vegetarian and vegan cooking."

Definition

A flavorful liquid made by simmering vegetables (carrots, celery, onions), herbs, and spices in water, serving as a versatile base for soups, stews, and sauces.

Common Usage Base for Vegan Soups/Stews
Key Nutrients Often low in calories, sodium (if unsalted)
Storage Life (Unopened) Up to 1 year

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Vegetable Broth are:

Savory umami aromatic light

Chef’s Secret

Freeze leftover vegetable scraps (onion peels, carrot tops, celery ends) to make your own intensely flavorful, zero-waste vegetable broth.

Best Substitutes

Water + Vegetable Bouillon Cube/Powder

Ratio 1:1

Mushroom Broth

Ratio 1:1

Dashi

different flavor profile
Ratio 1:1

White Wine

for specific dishes
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for low-sodium or unsalted versions to control seasoning. Check ingredient lists for unwanted additives. Organic options available.

Recipes Using Vegetable Broth

Soy Tofu Main Ingredient 30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make

Asian Style Grilled Tofu

Experience a burst of Asian flavors with this irresistible grilled tofu recipe! Inspired by a family heirloom, this recipe features a savory marinade (easily customizable to your spice preference) that perfectly complements the tender, smoky tofu. Quick to prepare and bursting with umami, this dish is a perfect weeknight meal or a show-stopping appetizer. Get ready to impress!

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Preparation 30 Minutes Or Less Rice Dietary

Arroz Blanco

This vibrant and flavorful Arroz Blanco recipe is a vegetarian twist on a classic, inspired by a beloved American cookbook. Perfect as a simple side dish or the base for more elaborate creations like our family's favorite Green Rice! This stovetop and rice cooker method ensures perfectly cooked, fluffy rice every time.

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Seafood 3 Steps Or Less Main Dish Easy

Baked Snapper Chinoise

Experience a burst of Asian-inspired flavor with this incredibly easy and healthy Baked Snapper Chinoise recipe! Tender snapper fillets are bathed in a savory sauce of soy, garlic, and ginger, then baked to perfection in just 15 minutes. Low-calorie and packed with deliciousness, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Serve with fluffy rice and your favorite steamed or stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. Inspired by a recipe from "365 Easy Low-Calorie Recipes."

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Low In Something Easy Healthy 2 Low In Something

A Simple Dahl Recipe

Craving a comforting and flavorful dahl? This easy recipe delivers a perfectly creamy tomato and potato dahl, ideal for serving with roti or naan. Its slightly watery consistency avoids dryness, making it a delicious and satisfying meal in just 25 minutes! Perfect for weeknight dinners.

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Bisques Cream Soups Seasonal Stove Top Potatoes

Cream Of Cauliflower Soup Vegan

Indulge in this luxuriously creamy vegan cauliflower soup! This dairy-free delight is packed with flavor and surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a sophisticated vegan gathering. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Preparation Cuisine Pasta Rice And Grains Preparation

Basic Polenta

Master the art of polenta with this easy recipe! This creamy, dreamy dish is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it soft and creamy straight from the pot, bake it into squares for a comforting side, or fry it into crispy polenta sticks for a unique appetizer. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a first-time cook, this foolproof recipe will impress. Get ready to explore endless possibilities with this adaptable Italian staple!

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Time To Make Low Cholesterol Iranian Persian Low In Something

Adas Polo Persian Rice With Lentils

Experience the rich flavors of Persia with this incredible Adas Polo recipe! This hearty and aromatic dish combines fluffy basmati rice, savory lentils, sweet caramelized onions, and plump raisins, all infused with warming spices. Perfect served alongside succulent chicken or lamb, or enjoyed as a satisfying vegetarian option. This easy-to-follow recipe will transport your taste buds to the heart of Iran!

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Low In Something Low Fat Rice Easy

Copycat Costa Vida Green Rice

Craving the vibrant, flavorful green rice from Costa Vida? This copycat recipe lets you recreate that deliciousness at home! Perfect as a side dish for burritos, bowls, or salads, this recipe captures the restaurant's signature lime and cilantro zest. Easy to make and bursting with fresh flavors, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to elevate your Mexican-inspired meals!

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60 Minutes Or Less Preparation Vegetables Carrots

Bacon N Veggie Pasta

This Bacon & Veggie Pasta recipe is a delicious and satisfying side dish, perfect for family dinners or potlucks! Crispy bacon, tender vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta combine for a flavor explosion. Easy to make and ready in under an hour!

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Time To Make Low Sodium Course Main Ingredient

Basic Soft Polenta

This incredibly versatile polenta recipe is your new go-to side dish! Enjoy it creamy and soft straight from the pot, or transform it into crispy, golden-brown delights by chilling, shaping, and pan-frying. Customize your polenta with your favorite cheeses, vegetables, and herbs. Serve alongside hearty stews, succulent braised meats, flavorful grilled sausages, and vibrant roasted vegetables. A fantastic alternative to mashed potatoes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Learn how to make perfectly creamy polenta in just 45 minutes!

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Course Main Dish 60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make

Bean And Bulghur Soup

This hearty and flavorful Bean & Bulghur Soup is a pantry-friendly recipe perfect for a cozy night in! Thick, filling, and packed with protein, this vegetarian soup is easily customizable to your spice preferences. Made with simple ingredients and ready in under an hour, it's a delicious and satisfying meal any time of year. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or water for a vegan choice.

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Vegetarian Dietary Main Dish Healthy

Chickenless Noodle Soup

Craving comforting chicken noodle soup but ditching the chicken? This recipe delivers! Inspired by a family favorite, this vegetarian twist features homemade dill noodles and a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or when you need a nourishing meal that's both satisfying and healthy. The homemade dill noodles are incredibly delicious, although time-consuming (though worth every minute!). (Vegan noodle suggestions welcome!)

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Bisques Cream Soups Occasion Holiday Event Time To Make

Autumn Carrot Soup

Warm up your autumn evenings with this creamy and comforting carrot soup! Bursting with the flavors of fall – carrots, apples, and warming spices – this recipe is perfect for a cozy night in. Easy to make and utterly delicious, it's the ultimate fall comfort food.

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30 Minutes Or Less Brunch Lactose Course

Adzuki Bean Stew With Okra

This vibrant adzuki bean and okra stew is a quick, delicious, and healthy meal ready in under 30 minutes! Budget-friendly and packed with flavor, it's perfect served over brown rice with a drizzle of tahini and a side of cucumber or avocado. Experience the magic of warm spices and tender beans in this satisfying and inexpensive recipe.

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Preparation Mushrooms Vegetables Main Dish

Almond Rice Casserole

This comforting and flavorful vegetarian almond rice casserole is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Easy to follow instructions and delicious results make this recipe a must-try for both beginner and experienced cooks. Enjoy the creamy texture and nutty aroma!

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Occasion Beans Preparation Cuisine

Baby Bok Choy With Mushrooms And Tofu

This vibrant and flavorful Asian-inspired dish features crispy pan-fried tofu, tender baby bok choy, and savory mushrooms in a luscious homemade sauce. Inspired by traditional Chinese cooking, this recipe from Country Living Magazine is a quick weeknight meal perfect served over rice or ramen noodles. We've enhanced it with tips from countless reviews for the perfect balance of savory and umami.

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Preparation 30 Minutes Or Less Pasta Rice And Grains Pasta

Angel Hair Pasta With Garden Vegetables

This vibrant and flavorful Angel Hair Pasta with Garden Vegetables recipe is a delightful way to showcase the bounty of your garden or farmers market! A quick and easy pasta primavera, this recipe comes together in just 20 minutes—about the same time it takes to boil the pasta. Packed with fresh, seasonal vegetables and protein-packed pasta (we recommend a "plus" variety!), it's a light, tasty, and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Customize it to your liking—add your favorite veggies, herbs, and spices for a truly personalized culinary experience. Enjoy the taste of summer in every bite!

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Course Preparation Main Ingredient Main Dish

Beef Braised In Teroldego Wine

Impress your guests with this decadent Beef Braised in Bold Italian Red Wine! Inspired by an Italian magazine, this recipe features tender beef slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, flavorful sauce. Double the recipe and freeze half for another delicious meal later. This show-stopping dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

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