Craving a comforting bowl of warmth that also packs a nutritious punch?
Look no further than this Cream of Broccoli Soup.
Velvety, rich, and bursting with the goodness of fresh broccoli, this recipe is a go-to for those chilly evenings or when you simply need a wholesome pick-me-up.
Let’s dive into the kitchen and whip up a pot of deliciousness!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated cheddar cheese and croutons for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prep the Broccoli
Start by washing and chopping the fresh broccoli into small florets.
Don’t discard the stems; peel and dice them into smaller pieces.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the diced onions and minced garlic.
Sauté until the onions are translucent and aromatic.
3. Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic.
Stir continuously to create a roux, cooking for 2-3 minutes until it develops a light golden color.
4. Add Broccoli
Incorporate the chopped broccoli florets and stems into the pot.
Stir them well, letting the vegetables mingle with the roux.
5. Pour in Broth
Slowly pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the broccoli is tender.
6. Blend to Creaminess
Once the broccoli is tender, use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Blend until smooth and creamy.
7. Introduce Creaminess
Return the blended soup to the pot.
Pour in the whole milk or heavy cream, stirring continuously.
Let it simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors.
8. Season and Garnish
Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
For an added touch, garnish with grated cheddar cheese and croutons.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the Cream of Broccoli Soup into bowls, and savor the velvety warmth.
Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Conclusion:
This Cream of Broccoli Soup is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a bowl full of nutrition.
Packed with the wholesome goodness of broccoli and the luxurious richness of cream, it’s a delightful way to sneak in those essential veggies.
Enjoy the comforting embrace of this soup on any occasion!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe.
Just ensure it’s thawed before adding it to the soup.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Certainly! Prepare the soup and refrigerate.
Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed.
3. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for longer storage.
4. Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?
Yes, you can use whole milk or even half-and-half if you prefer a lighter version of the soup.
5. How do I make it vegan?
Swap butter for olive oil and use vegetable broth.
Substitute whole milk or cream with your favorite non-dairy alternatives like almond or coconut milk.