Cream of Broccoli Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that combines the wholesome flavors of broccoli with a creamy base.
This soup is perfect for chilly days or when you want a hearty yet light meal.
The creamy texture comes from blending cooked broccoli with a rich broth and cream, creating a velvety soup that is both satisfying and delicious.
With simple ingredients and easy preparation, cream of broccoli soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a starter or a main course.
Whether you serve it with crusty bread or as part of a larger meal, this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cooking Instructions:
Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Add diced onions and minced garlic, sauté until onions are translucent.
Add broccoli florets to the pot and sauté for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pour in vegetable or chicken broth, bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until broccoli is tender.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth, then return to the pot.
Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Heat through gently without boiling.
Serving:
Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy with crusty bread or a side salad.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 5g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Just adjust cooking time as needed to ensure it is tender before blending.
2. How can I make this soup dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free milk alternative like almond milk. Use a dairy-free butter or olive oil instead of butter.
3. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Yes, you can add carrots, celery, or cauliflower for added flavor and nutrients. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the vegetables used.
4. How should I store leftover soup?
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
5. Can I add spices or herbs to this soup?
Absolutely! Consider adding thyme, parsley, or a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor. Adjust seasoning to your preference before serving.