Cream of broccoli soup is a delightful dish that combines the fresh flavors of broccoli with creamy goodness, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, this soup is not only rich and satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Let’s dive into this simple and delicious recipe that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 250 calories, 15g fat, 20g carbohydrates, 3g protein, and is a good source of vitamins A and C. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Return the pot to low heat and stir in the heavy cream.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Alternative Ingredients
You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Additionally, vegetable broth can be substituted with chicken broth for enhanced flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh side salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a hearty meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through. This soup can be frozen, but it’s best to omit the cream before freezing; add it in when reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the broccoli can lead to a bitter taste.
- Not seasoning properly can result in bland soup.
- Using cold cream can cause the soup to curdle.
- Blending too early can result in a chunky texture.
- Skipping the sautéing step can miss out on flavor depth.
Helpful Tips
- For a smoother texture, blend longer.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Try adding nutmeg for a unique flavor twist.
- Use fresh broccoli for the best taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but fresh broccoli is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
How can I make the soup vegan?
To make the soup vegan, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and ensure the vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots or potatoes can enhance the soup’s flavor and nutritional value.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this cream of broccoli soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth.
How long does it take to cook?
The total cooking time is about 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time.
Conclusion
Cream of broccoli soup is a nourishing and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any season. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s a great way to enjoy your vegetables while indulging in a comforting meal. Try this recipe today and make it a staple in your kitchen!
Cream Of Broccoli Soup
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish optional
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Return the pot to low heat and stir in the heavy cream.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
