Get cozy with a bowl of warm, comforting goodness! Kale soup is the perfect remedy for a chilly day or a pick-me-up when you need some serious nourishment. With its rich, earthy flavor and impressive nutritional profile, kale is the ultimate superfood that deserves to be showcased in all its glory.
In this article, we’re excited to share 20 deliciously comforting kale soup recipes that will satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling satisfied and energized. From creamy concoctions to spicy stews, these innovative recipes put a twist on traditional soups while showcasing the versatility of kale. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a healthier option, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
So grab a spoon and let’s dive into the world of hearty kale soups!
Creamy Kale and Potato Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup that combines the earthy flavor of kale with the creaminess of potatoes, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the diced potatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return it to the pot.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the spicy kick of sausage with the earthy goodness of kale.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as Andouille or chorizo), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 bunch curly kale, stems removed and leaves coarsely chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the drippings in the pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth, water, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add the chopped kale to the pot and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Return the sausage to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lentil and Kale Soup with Lemon
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy lentils, tender kale, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add lentils, water or broth, chopped kale, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in lemon juice and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup
This hearty soup is a classic Tuscan dish that combines the creamy richness of cannellini beans with the earthy sweetness of kale. Perfect for a cozy winter evening, this recipe makes a big batch to share or enjoy throughout the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the cannellini beans, chicken broth, water, and kale. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Coconut Curry Kale Soup
This creamy and aromatic soup combines the nutritious power of kale with the warmth of coconut curry, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in curry powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add kale, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes or until kale is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Chicken and Kale Soup with Quinoa
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of protein-packed chicken, nutritious kale, and fiber-rich quinoa. A simple and satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the quinoa, water, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the quinoa is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Kale Soup
Roasted Garlic and Kale Soup: A Hearty and Flavorful Winter Delight
This recipe brings together the pungency of roasted garlic and the earthy sweetness of kale, creating a rich and comforting soup perfect for cold winter nights.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 cloves of garlic
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups kale leaves (stemmed and chopped)
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the garlic cloves in foil, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes until soft and mashed.
2. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in olive oil until translucent. Add the roasted garlic, kale, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth. Return to pot if necessary.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with a dollop of heavy cream or half-and-half, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-55 minutes
Vegetarian Kale and Wild Rice Soup
This comforting soup is packed with nutrients and flavor, making it a perfect meal for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 cup wild rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped kale, wild rice, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Smoky Kale and Sweet Potato Soup
Warm up with this hearty, plant-based soup that combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the smokiness of kale. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can of vegetable broth (4 cups)
– 1/2 cup of water
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes, vegetable broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in the chopped kale and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the kale to wilt.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of smoked paprika if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tomato Basil Kale Soup
Warm up with this vibrant and nutritious soup, packed with the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and kale.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the tomatoes, kale, basil, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half for added richness.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Kale Soup with Barley
A comforting and nutritious soup that combines tender beef, nutritious kale, and nutty barley for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup whole wheat barley
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add barley, water, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Add kale to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until kale is tender.
6. Return beef to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Kale and Chickpea Soup with Turmeric
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup that combines the earthy flavors of kale, chickpeas, and turmeric. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in cumin, turmeric, and salt.
5. Add the chopped kale, chickpeas, carrots, and vegetable broth to the pot.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Season with pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Kale Soup
Warm up with a bowl of this aromatic soup, infused with the spices and flavors of Morocco. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 4 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add kale, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kale and Mushroom Soup with Thyme
This comforting soup combines the earthy flavors of kale and mushrooms with the warmth of thyme, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic; cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the chopped kale, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin and Kale Soup with Coconut Milk
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin and kale with the creamy richness of coconut milk, making it a perfect soup for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the pumpkin cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Add the chopped kale, vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional kale leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Kale and Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of creamy corn and nutritious kale, making it a delicious and satisfying meal for any occasion. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted.
3. Stir in corn kernels, chicken broth, and milk.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kale and Cannellini Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the nutty flavor of cannellini beans with the earthy sweetness of kale, creating a delicious and nutritious meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and water to the pot.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has reached desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Kale and Butternut Squash Soup
This hearty soup combines the nutty flavor of roasted butternut squash with the earthy goodness of kale, all blended together with a hint of cream. A perfect fall or winter treat to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 cups curly kale leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until softened.
4. Add kale leaves and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted squash, cooked kale mixture, chicken broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half. Blend until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Kale and Shrimp Soup with Ginger
This vibrant soup combines the nutrients of kale with the sweetness of shrimp, all tied together with a hint of spicy ginger. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped curly kale
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced ginger and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, until pink and just cooked through.
4. Add the chopped kale, chicken broth, and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the kale is tender.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and sriracha (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Kale and Carrot Soup with Cumin
A vibrant and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of kale and carrots with the warm, aromatic spice of cumin.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 4 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the chopped carrots, kale, and cumin. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Blend the soup until smooth, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 deliciously comforting kale soup recipes! From creamy and potato-filled to spicy and sausage-packed, there’s something for everyone. Try out flavors like Tuscan white bean and kale, Moroccan spiced kale, or roasted garlic and kale. Or go vegetarian with lentil and kale, wild rice and kale, or pumpkin and kale soups. Whatever your taste, these hearty recipes are sure to warm your belly and your soul. So grab a spoon and get ready to slurp up the deliciousness!
