Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 1 carrot (sliced)
• 1 leek (chopped)
• 1 celery stalk (chopped)
• 1 zucchini (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt (to taste)
• Ground black pepper (to taste)
• 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 small head of broccoli (cut into florets)
• 3.5 oz (100 g) processed cheese (cubed or grated)

For the Cheesy Croutons:

• 2 slices of bread (cut into cubes)
• Salt (to taste)
• Paprika (to taste)
• Dried garlic powder (to taste)
• Olive oil (for drizzling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Soup:

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
   • Stir in the sliced carrot, chopped leek, celery, and zucchini. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
2. Add the Broth:
   • Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth (about 3 cups or 720 ml). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
   • Add the broccoli florets to the pot and let the vegetables simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
3. Blend the Soup:
   • Once the vegetables are soft, remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
   • If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend only half of the soup, leaving some pieces of vegetables intact.
4. Add the Processed Cheese:
   • After blending, return the pot to low heat and stir in the processed cheese. Let the cheese melt into the soup, stirring continuously until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Preparing the Cheesy Croutons:

1. Season the Bread:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Place the cubed bread in a mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, paprika, and garlic powder to taste.
   • Toss the bread cubes until they are evenly coated with the seasoning.
2. Bake the Croutons:
   • Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and golden brown.
3. Serve:
   • Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with a handful of cheesy croutons.
   • Optionally, you can drizzle a little olive oil or sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor.

Cooking Tips

• Blending the Soup: If you’re using a blender, let the soup cool for a few minutes before blending to avoid hot splashes. Blend in batches if necessary.
• Cheese Substitution: You can substitute the processed cheese with cream cheese, cheddar, or any other melting cheese for a richer flavor.
• Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add or swap vegetables like potatoes, spinach, or cauliflower to suit your taste.
• Crouton Variations: For extra cheesy croutons, you can sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar on top before baking.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot over low heat or in the microwave.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Sugar: 7g

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cheese instead of processed cheese?
   • Yes, you can substitute processed cheese with fresh cheese like cheddar, cream cheese, or even gouda for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I make the soup dairy-free?
   • Absolutely! Use a dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese altogether for a lighter version. You can also use coconut milk or almond milk to add creaminess.
3. What other toppings can I add to the soup?
   • Apart from cheesy croutons, you can garnish the soup with chopped fresh herbs, a swirl of cream or yogurt, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
4. How can I make the croutons gluten-free?
   • Simply use gluten-free bread for the croutons if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
5. Can I add meat to the soup?
   • Yes, if you prefer a heartier soup, you can add cooked shredded chicken or bacon for extra protein.

Conclusion

This Creamy Broccoli Vegetable Soup is a delightful, wholesome dish that’s easy to prepare and loaded with nutrients. The rich, velvety texture of the soup is enhanced by the melted cheese, while the crispy cheesy croutons offer the perfect contrast in every bite. Whether you’re serving this as a main course or a starter, it’s a surefire way to enjoy your vegetables in a satisfying, flavorful manner. The versatility of the recipe allows for various customizations, making it perfect for any season or occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious bowl of comfort that will leave everyone asking for seconds!