Broccoli is not just a nutritious vegetable; it’s also incredibly versatile in the kitchen. One of my favorite ways to enjoy broccoli is by making a creamy and delicious Broccoli Cheese Soup. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a bowl of warmth. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful soup!
How To Cut Broccoli
Before we get to the recipe, it’s important to know how to cut broccoli properly. Cutting it the right way not only helps in cooking it evenly but also makes for a more appealing presentation. Begin by rinsing the broccoli under cool water to clean it. Trim the stem where it meets the head, then slice the head into manageable florets. You can also peel the tough outer layer of the stem and cut it into smaller pieces for added texture. This way, you’ll maximize the goodness of the whole vegetable!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this flavorful soup:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup diced onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: Croutons for garnish
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients together, let’s start cooking!
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Next, add the minced garlic and stir for about a minute until fragrant.
- After that, add the broccoli florets and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for around 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Once the broccoli is cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, transferring it in batches to a blender works fine as well. Just be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending.
- Return the pureed soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Allow it to heat through on low, stirring occasionally until the cheese is melted and everything is combined.
- Taste the soup and season it as needed with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with croutons if desired. Enjoy your cozy bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup!
With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this Broccoli Cheese Soup is sure to become a favorite. Perfect for every occasion, it’s a simple recipe that highlights the wholesome goodness of broccoli.