Who doesn’t love a warm, creamy bowl of soup on a chilly day?
Cream of broccoli soup is a classic comfort food that delights the taste buds and warms the soul.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this simple yet flavorful recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire.
Let’s dive into the steps of creating this delicious dish!
Ingredients for Cream of Broccoli Soup
To start off, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Cream of Broccoli Soup
Prep the Broccoli:
Begin by washing the broccoli florets thoroughly and chopping them into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant.
Cook the Broccoli:
Add the chopped broccoli florets to the pot, stirring them to coat with the butter and aromatics.
Cook for about 5 minutes until the broccoli begins to soften slightly.
Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
Let the soup cook for about 15-20 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
Blend the Soup:
Once the broccoli is cooked through, use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender in batches to puree until smooth.
Add Cream:
Return the pureed soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream.
Allow the soup to heat through, but do not let it boil.
Season to Taste:
Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your preference.
Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving and Enjoying Cream of Broccoli Soup
Ladle the creamy soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Serve the soup hot alongside crusty bread or a salad for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Enjoy the creamy goodness of this homemade cream of broccoli soup as a starter or as a main course on a cold winter evening.
Conclusion:
Cream of broccoli soup is a versatile and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion.
With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a batch of this delicious soup to warm your body and soul.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress.
So grab your ingredients and get cooking – a bowl of creamy goodness awaits!
Unique FAQs:
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh for this soup?
Yes, you can substitute frozen broccoli for fresh in this recipe.
Simply thaw the frozen broccoli before adding it to the pot.
How long does cream of broccoli soup last in the refrigerator?
Cream of broccoli soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Be sure to cool it completely before storing.
Can I freeze cream of broccoli soup?
Yes, cream of broccoli soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove.
What other vegetables can I add to this soup?
While broccoli is the star of this soup, you can also add other vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, or peas for added flavor and nutrition.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegan by substituting the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream.
Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegan version.