Fall 5-Spice Soup

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 teaspoons Chinese 5-spice powder
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, onion, carrots and celery and sauté for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add the Chinese 5-spice powder and sauté for 1 minute more.
3. Add the vegetable broth, sea salt and black pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Add the maple syrup, soy sauce, sesame seeds and cilantro and simmer for 5 minutes more.
5. Serve warm.

Interesting Facts

• Chinese 5-spice powder is a blend of cinnamon, cloves, fennel, star anise, and Sichuan peppercorns.
• The Chinese 5-spice powder adds a subtle sweetness to the soup that balances out the savory flavors.
• This soup is vegan-friendly and gluten-free.