There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s as delicious and nutritious as broccoli soup. This Broccoli Soup Recipe – Tasty & Creamy! is perfect for those chilly days when you need something to warm you up from the inside out. With its smooth texture, rich flavor, and the goodness of fresh broccoli, this soup is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a healthy addition to your meal rotation. So, let’s dive into the world of this delectable soup and see how you can whip it up right in your kitchen!
Table of Contents
Why Broccoli Soup?
Broccoli soup is a favorite for many reasons. It’s:
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Versatile: Great as a starter, main course, or side dish.
- Easy to Make: Requires simple ingredients and minimal cooking skills.
- Creamy and Delicious: Offers a satisfying texture and taste that pleases everyone.
Broccoli Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Immersion blender (or countertop blender)
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 2 heads fresh broccoli chopped
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 large potato peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: A pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
- Wash and chop broccoli into florets. Dice onion and potato. Mince garlic.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté diced onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Stir in broccoli and potato. Cook for 2-3 minutes until broccoli turns bright green.
- Pour in the broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Use an immersion blender (or transfer to blender in batches) to blend until smooth.
- Return soup to pot (if needed). Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar. Simmer until cheese is melted and soup is creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with a drizzle of cream, sesame seeds, or more cheese if desired.
Notes
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
Ingredients
Before we get started, let’s gather everything we need. Here’s a list of ingredients for this mouth-watering Broccoli Soup Recipe – Tasty & Creamy!:
- 2 heads of fresh broccoli, chopped: The star of the dish. Opt for fresh, dark green florets with firm stems.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth: Provides a rich, savory base. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Contributes to the soup’s creamy texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taster: Enhances the overall flavor profile. Season to taste.
- Optional: A pinch of nutmeg for a hint of warmth
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Vegetables
First things first, you need to prep your veggies. Wash the broccoli thoroughly and chop it into small florets. Dice the onion and potato, and mince the garlic.
Sautéing the Onion and Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Adding the Broccoli and Potato
Once the onion and garlic are nicely sautéed, add the chopped broccoli and diced potato to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for a few minutes until the broccoli turns a vibrant green.
Pouring in the Broth
Next, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the broccoli and potatoes are tender.
Blending the Soup
After the vegetables are tender, it’s time to blend the soup. You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Blend until the soup is smooth and creamy.
Adding the Cream and Cheese
Return the blended soup to the pot (if you used a countertop blender). Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
Tips and Tricks
- Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli: While fresh broccoli is ideal for this recipe, you can use frozen broccoli in a pinch. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Cheese Choices: Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can experiment with other types like Gouda or Parmesan for different flavors.
- Make it Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream, and use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
- Texture Variation: For a chunkier texture, reserve some cooked broccoli florets before blending and add them back to the pureed soup.
Garnishes: Enhance the presentation and flavor with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, or a handful of toasted nuts.
Serving Suggestions
Broccoli soup is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas:
- Classic Bowl: Serve it hot in a bowl with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top.
- Bread Bowl: Hollow out a round loaf of bread and pour the soup inside for a fun, edible serving option.
- With Croutons: Add some crunch with homemade or store-bought croutons.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Storing Cream of Broccoli Soup
- Refrigeration: Cool the soup to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for 3-4 days.
Freezing Cream of Broccoli Soup
- Freezing: For longer storage, ladle the soup into freezer-safe zip-top bags. Lay the bags flat in the freezer and store for up to 2-3 months. Label the bags with the date for easy tracking.
FAQs
Can I freeze broccoli soup?
Yes, you can! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stove.
How do I make my soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or add an extra potato. You can also stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water towards the end of cooking.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, celery, or even spinach to boost the nutritional value and flavor of the soup.
There you have it, the ultimate Broccoli Soup Recipe – Tasty & Creamy! This soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience of comfort and flavor that you’ll want to revisit again and again. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a cozy night in, this broccoli soup is a surefire hit. So, grab your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a bowl of creamy, delicious goodness. Bon appétit!
