A Soul-Warming Vegan Carrot and Ginger Soup: The Story Behind Little Fish and Chainsaw’s Recipe

  

The Beginnings of a Noble Mission

In the wake of the devastating wildfires that swept through Los Angeles in 2025, a group of local chefs took it upon themselves to provide much-needed comfort through food. Chefs Anna Sonenshein and Karla Subero Pittol have been at the forefront of this initiative, coordinating thousands of disaster-relief meals through a new coalition, Rogue Foods LA. From the kitchens of Little Fish and Dada Market, they have produced approximately 10,000 nutritious meals for first responders and evacuees. Their journey is a testament to the power of community and the universal language of food.

Soup: The Universal Comfort Food

Soup has been a cornerstone of their culinary efforts, offering a practical way to utilize the massive donations of vegetables they receive. With donations like 1,000 pounds of carrots from the Garden of Via La grocery, and cases of leeks, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage, soup becomes not only a nourishing meal but a symbol of resourcefulness and care. The chefs have found that soup resonates with people across all backgrounds, providing a sense of warmth and familiarity in uncertain times.

• Massive donations of vegetables are transformed into comforting soups.
• Soup offers a way to ensure nothing goes to waste, making use of every last bit of produce.
• The act of making soup is both a practical and emotional endeavor, connecting the chefs to the community they serve.

image via Stephanie Breijo - Los Angeles Times

 If comfort had a taste, it would be found in a steaming bowl of Little Fish and Chainsaw’s vegan carrot and ginger soup. This hearty, creamy, and flavorful soup has roots in both purpose and passion. Born out of a moment of community-driven compassion during the 2025 L.A. wildfires, this recipe was developed by Anna Sonenshein, co-owner of Little Fish, and Karla Subero Pittol, owner of Chainsaw. Together, they took a sizable donation of 1,000 pounds of carrots and turned it into more than just soup—they created nourishment with heart, feeding first responders, evacuees, and Angelenos in need (Little Fish and Chainsaw’s Vegan Carrot Ginger Soup Recipe - Los Angeles Times, n.d.)

Now, their incredible recipe is available to all, and it’s every bit as soulful as its origin story. 

What Makes This Soup Special?

This is not your average vegetable soup—it’s a vibrant, spicy, and creamy creation that manages to satisfy as both comfort food and a healthy meal. The secret lies in its perfect blend of ingredients. While the sweet earthiness of carrots is the star, the supporting cast is equally impressive. Fresh ginger delivers that trademark heat and zest, creamy coconut milk adds richness, and the subtle spice of Calabrian chile paste provides the flavor complexity that keeps you coming back for more. Protein-packed white beans give it sustenance, while a zingy squeeze of fresh orange juice at the end enhances the brightness of the dish.  

It’s a balance of bold flavors and velvety textures that can please just about anyone, and it’s entirely plant-based. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of chili oil for an optional kick, and you’ve got a dish that hits the sweet spot between comforting and refreshing.  

The Ingredients You’ll Need 

For six to eight servings, you’ll need:  

- 1 cup chopped onion  

- 8 garlic cloves  

- 6 tablespoons chopped fresh ginger  

- 2 tablespoons olive oil  

- 1 tablespoon Calabrian chile paste  

- 2 pounds carrots, cut into 1-inch knobs  

- 6 cups vegetable stock  

- 14 ounces canned tomato puree  

- 2 tablespoons turmeric  

- 1 teaspoon black pepper  

- 15 ounces canned white beans, drained  

- 13.5 ounces canned coconut milk  

- Salt to taste  

- 1 orange (for finishing)  

- Fresh herbs (optional garnish)  

- Chili oil or chili crisp (optional garnish)

Step-by-Step Recipe  

While the ingredient list might seem lengthy at first, the process is simple and incredibly rewarding. Here’s how to make this soul-warming vegan soup:  

1. Prepare the Aromatic Base:

   Using a food processor, blend the onion, garlic, and ginger into a smooth paste. This aromatic blend is the foundation of the soup’s flavor.  

2. Sauté the Aromatics:  

   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the prepared paste and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant (about 5 to 7 minutes).  

3. Add a Touch of Spice:  

   Stir in the Calabrian chile paste and let it cook for another minute to release its spicy, smoky notes.  

4. Simmer the Soup:  

   Add the carrots, tomato puree, turmeric, black pepper, and vegetable stock to the pot. Bring everything to a simmer and cook until the carrots are fork-tender, about 20 to 25 minutes.  

5. Blend to Perfection:  

   Add the drained white beans to the pot. Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring the soup to a standing blender in batches), blend the soup to a smooth, creamy consistency.  

6. Finish with Coconut Milk:  

   Stir in the can of coconut milk and add salt and a pinch of MSG (if desired) to bring out the flavors.  

7. The Final Touch:  

   Remove the soup from heat and ladle it into bowls. Just before serving, squeeze fresh orange juice over each portion for added brightness. Top with fresh herbs or a drizzle of chili oil for a garnish that matches your flavor p s.  

Cooking with Love and Intent

The chefs approach each meal with the intent to provide not just sustenance, but a moment of reprieve and comfort. They understand that food is not an afterthought but an integral part of the healing process. In times of crisis, a well-prepared meal can offer a sense of normalcy and care. The chefs strive to create dishes that are not only filling but also emotionally uplifting, ensuring that each bite is a step towards recovery.

Conclusion: A Recipe for Hope

In the end, the work done by Anna Sonenshein, Karla Subero Pittol, and their team is more than just cooking; it's a recipe for hope. Through their dedication, they have demonstrated the profound impact that food can have in times of crisis. As they continue to serve their community, they remind us all of the importance of kindness, generosity, and the simple act of breaking bread together.

For more information and to support their efforts, you can connect with Rogue Foods LA through their social media channels and stay updated on their journey as they continue to make a difference, one meal at a time.

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Reference

Little Fish and Chainsaw’s Vegan Carrot Ginger Soup Recipe - Los Angeles Times. (n.d.). Retrieved January 28, 2025, from https://www.latimes.com/recipe/little-fish-chainsaw-carrot-ginger-soup