This creamy broccoli soup is a comforting and nourishing dish, perfect for a chilly day. It’s packed with the goodness of broccoli, carrots, and onions, blended into a smooth and velvety texture. This recipe provides a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy the health benefits of broccoli.
Preparation time: 20 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2-3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: Cream or milk for added richness (to taste)
- Optional: Croutons or toasted bread for garnish
Directions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil and butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add Garlic and Carrot: Add the minced garlic and chopped carrot to the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
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Add Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to turn bright green.
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Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
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Add Broth: Gradually pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth), whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
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Blend the Soup: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (in batches if necessary) and blend until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot.
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Season and Adjust: Return the soup to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in cream or milk for added richness. Heat through gently.
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Serve: Ladle the creamy broccoli soup into bowls and garnish with croutons or toasted bread, if desired.
Nutritional Facts (Approximate, per serving – based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 8-12g
- Saturated Fat: 4-6g
- Cholesterol: 20-30mg
- Sodium: 400-600mg (depending on broth and added salt)
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 5-7g
- Protein: 5-7g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and additions like cream or milk.
The Origins and Popularity of Creamy Broccoli Soup:
Broccoli, a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, has been cultivated for centuries, originating in Italy. Its journey from a relatively obscure vegetable to a culinary staple is a testament to its nutritional value and versatility. Broccoli soup, particularly the creamy version, likely emerged as a way to showcase the vegetable’s delicate flavor and create a comforting and warming dish. Creamy soups, in general, have a long history, with various cultures incorporating cream, milk, or other thickening agents to create velvety textures. The combination of broccoli’s earthy notes with the creamy richness of the soup has made it a popular choice, especially during colder months. Its popularity stems from its ease of preparation, nutritional benefits, and comforting taste. Broccoli soup is often considered a healthy and satisfying meal, suitable for all ages. It has found its place on restaurant menus, in home kitchens, and in countless cookbooks, solidifying its status as a classic comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This creamy broccoli soup recipe is a winner for several reasons. It’s simple and straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The use of a roux creates a smooth and creamy texture without the need for excessive amounts of cream. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the health benefits of broccoli in a delicious and comforting form. It’s also easily customizable – you can add other vegetables, spices, or toppings to create your own unique version.
Health Benefits of Creamy Broccoli Soup:
Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. It also contains compounds that may have cancer-protective properties. Carrots contribute beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, important for vision and immune function. This soup is a great way to incorporate these nutritious vegetables into your diet.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot with crusty bread, croutons, or toasted baguette slices for dipping.
- Garnish with a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of cheese, or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
- Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra richness and tang.
Tips:
- Don’t overcook the broccoli, as it can become mushy and lose its vibrant green color.
- Use a good quality vegetable broth for the best flavor.
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches.
- Adjust the amount of flour depending on how thick you want the soup to be.
Variations to Try:
- Cheesy Broccoli Soup: Add shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite melting cheese to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Broccoli Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Combine this recipe with a cheddar cheese soup recipe for the ultimate comfort food.
- Roasted Broccoli Soup: Roast the broccoli florets before adding them to the soup for a deeper, more caramelized flavor.
Conclusion:
This creamy broccoli soup is a classic comfort food that’s both delicious and nutritious. It’s a simple recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight meal to a cozy weekend lunch. Enjoy the creamy texture, the vibrant green color, and the wholesome goodness of this delightful soup.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
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Can I freeze the soup? Yes, you can freeze it. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
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Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Add it to the pot after sautéing the onions and carrots. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
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Can I use milk instead of broth? You can use milk, but the flavor will be different. The soup will also be less thick. You might need to add more flour.
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How do I make the soup thicker? You can add more flour to the roux or simmer the soup uncovered for a longer period to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
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How do I make the soup thinner? Add more broth or milk to the soup until you reach your desired consistency.
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Can I add other vegetables? Yes, you can add other vegetables such as potatoes, celery, or leeks.
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Can I make this vegan? Yes, you can use vegetable broth and omit the butter. You can also use plant-based milk or cream for added richness.
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How do I prevent the soup from curdling? If adding cream or milk, make sure they are at room temperature before adding them to the hot soup. Don’t boil the soup after adding dairy.
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What can I use instead of flour? You can use cornstarch or arrowroot powder.