Cream of broccoli soup is a comforting dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. With its vibrant green color and creamy texture, this soup is perfect for any season. It can be enjoyed as a starter or a main course, and it’s a favorite among both kids and adults. Packed with vitamins and minerals, this recipe will not only warm your heart but also nourish your body!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
This dish provides approximately 250 calories per serving (1 cup). It contains 10g of protein, 18g of fat, 15g of carbohydrates, and is rich in vitamins A and C.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Here you need to write ONLY LIST (at least 10 items in the list) STEP-by-step detailed preparation “cream of broccoli soup recipe”, the size of this block is strictly from 1200 to 1500 characters.
- Start by washing the broccoli thoroughly under running water.
- Chop the broccoli into small florets and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pot and stir well.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth.
- Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If desired, add lemon juice for brightness and serve warm.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use almond milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. Additionally, vegetable broth can be substituted with chicken broth for added flavor. You can also add other vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy broccoli soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or a quiche. Enjoy it as a light lunch or a starter for dinner.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the broccoli can lead to a dull color and flavor.
- Not seasoning adequately will result in a bland soup.
- Using cold cream can cause the soup to separate.
- Blending the soup while hot without a lid can create a mess.
- Skipping the sautéing step may result in less flavorful soup.
Helpful Tips
- For a smoother texture, strain the soup after blending.
- Adjust the cream according to your desired richness.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm flavor boost.
- Garnish with extra broccoli florets for a lovely presentation.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before cooking. This can save you some time and still yield a delicious soup.
Is cream of broccoli soup healthy?
Absolutely! This soup is packed with vitamins and minerals from the broccoli and can be made lighter by adjusting the cream or using alternative ingredients.
How long does cream of broccoli soup last in the fridge?
The soup will last in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Just reheat it gently before serving.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegan by using coconut milk or almond milk instead of cream and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What can I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup is too thick, simply add a little more vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well and reheat if necessary.
Conclusion
Cream of broccoli soup is a delightful dish that combines comfort and nutrition in every bowl. With simple ingredients and an easy cooking process, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch. Enjoy the warmth and creamy texture, and don’t hesitate to get creative with variations and pairings!
Cream Of Broccoli Soup
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional
Instructions
- Wash the broccoli thoroughly under running water.
- Chop the broccoli into small florets and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pot and stir well.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth.
- Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If desired, add lemon juice for brightness and serve warm.
Nutrition
