Lemon-Thyme Broth with Zucchini and Nasturtium

The Broth Kitchen • Recipe 30 • IndigoKoi Wellness, LLC

Tender zucchini and lemon thyme make a delicate bowl, finished with the peppery accent of a few edible nasturtium petals.

Vegan brothy bowl | Yield: 4 light servings | Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon olive oil

• 2 shallots, thinly sliced

• 6 cups unsalted vegetable broth

• 2 small zucchini, thinly sliced

• 4 lemon-thyme sprigs, or regular thyme

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 4 small food-grade nasturtium flowers (Tropaeolum majus), washed; petals only

Method

1. Soften shallots in oil for 5 minutes. Add broth and thyme; simmer 10 minutes.

2. Add zucchini and simmer 5–7 minutes until just tender.

3. Remove thyme stems, add lemon juice and divide among bowls. Scatter the fresh nasturtium petals on top just before serving.

Coach Winona’s kitchen note

Use culinary nasturtium flowers from a trusted food source. Add cooked white beans or tofu when you want a more substantial meal.

Make it your own

Taste after simmering before adding salt. Use unsalted broth for the greatest control over seasoning; a homemade base or a store-bought option both work. Broth yields vary with pot size and evaporation. A strained broth is a meal foundation; add the suggested beans, tofu, meat or grains when you want a fuller bowl.

Cooling, storage and reheating

Cool promptly in small, shallow containers; refrigerate within 2 hours (1 hour above 90°F), at 40°F or below. Use within 3–4 days or freeze in suitable containers with expansion space. Reheat soup and broth to a rolling boil; solid leftovers should reach 165°F. Reheat only the portion needed.

Choosing edible flowers

Choose only correctly identified edible flowers grown for food without unsuitable pesticide treatments. Avoid florist flowers and unidentified garden cuttings. Wash gently and start with a small amount; omit flowers if you have a known allergy to the plant.

Food-safety guidance

USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/leftovers-and-food-safety

University of Minnesota Extension, Edible flowers: https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/gardening-minnesota/edible-flowers