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1
For roasted vegetable broth: Place a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat the oven to 500F.
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2
Place the garlic, onions, carrots, tomatoes, and leeks in a large roasting pan.
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3
Add the olive oil and toss to coat.
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4
Roast for 15 minutes.
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5
Turn the vegetables and roast for 15 more minutes.
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6
Move the vegetables around in the pan and roast them for 10 more minutes, or until the vegetables are all nicely browned and the tomatoes are collapsing.
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7
Transfer the roasted vegetables to a tall narrow stockpot.
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8
Add the spinach, celery leaves, parsley stems and bay leaves to the pan.
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9
Place the pan on the stovetop and add 7 cups water.
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10
Bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the sides and bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon.
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11
Pour this liquid over the vegetables in the stockpot.
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12
For plain vegetable broth: Place all the ingredients plus 8 cups water in a tall narrow stockpot.
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13
Bring to a boil.
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14
Lower the heat and simmer, partially covered, for 45 minutes.
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15
For either method: Strain the broth through a damp-cloth-lined sieve.
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16
Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze.