Mushroom and Spinach Soup – Daniel Fast Recipe

Introduction:

Earthy, comforting, and nourishing, this Mushroom and Spinach Soup is the perfect Daniel Fast meal to warm you from the inside out. With hearty mushrooms, tender spinach, and a rich, savory broth made from wholesome plant-based ingredients, this soup is a beautiful reminder that simplicity can be deeply satisfying. It's free of dairy, refined sugars, and processed ingredients, just pure, clean nourishment in every spoonful.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms (cremini, button, or mixed), sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 4 cups vegetable broth (Daniel Fast-approved, no additives or sweeteners)
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• ½ teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
• Optional: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes, until softened and translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot.
2. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their juices and begin to brown.
3. Stir in the diced carrot, celery, thyme, oregano, sea salt, and black pepper.
4. Cook for another 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
2. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the broth is infused with rich flavor.

Step 4: Add the Spinach

1. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes, just until wilted.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired for a burst of freshness.
3. Enjoy warm!

Optional Variations:

• Hearty Addition: Add cooked brown rice, quinoa, or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.
• Spice it Up: Sprinkle in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
• Creamy Version: Blend half of the soup for a creamier texture without dairy.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in diced zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers for more color and nutrients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Daniel Fast-Approved – 100% plant-based, clean, and nourishing.
• Rich & Comforting – Deep mushroom flavor with tender greens in a savory broth.
• Light Yet Filling – Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner that won’t weigh you down.
• Quick & Simple – Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal effort.
• Adaptable & Versatile – Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or grains.

This Mushroom and Spinach Soup is like a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for supporting your body and spirit during your Daniel Fast journey. It’s a humble dish, but each spoonful is packed with goodness, warmth, and nourishment.