Comforting Cream of Broccoli Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever experienced the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of Cream of Broccoli Soup? This dish, with its velvety texture and rich flavor, warms not just your body but also your soul. Imagine the fresh aroma of sautéed onions mingling with the earthy scent of broccoli, producing an inviting smell that makes everyone in your home feel at ease.

Cream of Broccoli Soup is not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt reminder of cozy family gatherings and chilly evenings spent indoors. Perfect as a starter for a dinner party or as a hearty lunch on a cold day, this soup brings people together. The vibrant green color and creamy consistency are visually appealing, while each spoonful promises a delightful blend of flavors. Get ready to savor an amazing culinary experience with this simple yet delectable recipe!

Key Ingredients For Cream of Broccoli Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green, firm broccoli florets for the best flavor and texture.
• Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness and depth to the soup’s base.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the overall flavor profile; use three to four cloves, minced.
• Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium vegetable broth serves as the foundation for this creamy soup.
• Cream or Milk: Use heavy cream for richness or milk for a lighter version; both create a smooth finish.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate the flavors; adjust to taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Cream of Broccoli Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing and chopping the broccoli into small pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Second Step : Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once heated, sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Third Step : Add Broccoli and Broth

Stir in the chopped broccoli followed by vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until broccoli is tender.

Fourth Step : Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender or transferring to a countertop blender in batches, puree the soup until it’s completely smooth.

Fifth Step : Stir in Cream

Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in your choice of cream or milk until well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serving Suggestion: Ladle into bowls and garnish with additional broccoli florets or croutons for added crunch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and garlic will give your soup vibrant flavor compared to older ingredients.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce broth; if you want it thinner, add more liquid gradually.
• Add Cheese: Stir in grated cheese after blending for an extra creamy texture; cheddar works wonderfully.

Cooking Method

To prepare a delicious Cream of Broccoli Soup, begin by sautéing onions and garlic in a large pot. This step enhances the flavors of the soup. Once the onions turn translucent, add chopped broccoli florets along with vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the broccoli is tender. After that, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. For a creamier texture, add heavy cream or milk and season with salt and pepper.

Serving Suggestions

This Cream of Broccoli Soup is perfect for various occasions. You can serve it as a starter at dinner parties or as a comforting lunch option. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For added flavor, consider garnishing with grated cheese, croutons, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives.

Nutritional Benefits

Cream of Broccoli Soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides numerous health benefits. Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, which support immune function and bone health. The soup can be made healthier by using low-fat milk or skipping cream altogether. Adding extra vegetables like carrots or spinach will increase its nutritional value while retaining great flavor.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover Cream of Broccoli Soup, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in portions. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

Presentation Ideas

This Cream of Broccoli Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Crusty Bread – A warm slice of sourdough complements the creamy texture perfectly.
• Grated Cheese – Freshly grated cheddar or parmesan adds depth to each bowl.
• Herb Garnish – Top with chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

FAQs

Can I make Cream of Broccoli Soup vegan?

Absolutely! To create a vegan version of Cream of Broccoli Soup, simply omit any dairy ingredients like heavy cream and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can substitute coconut milk or cashew cream for added richness without compromising taste. This way, you’ll enjoy all the flavors while adhering to a plant-based diet.

How do I thicken my Cream of Broccoli Soup?

If your Cream of Broccoli Soup turns out too thin, there are several ways to thicken it up. One common method is to blend in additional cooked broccoli until you reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can mix cornstarch with cold water and stir this slurry into the simmering soup until thickened. Remember that adding more cream will also help enhance thickness while boosting flavor.

Can I freeze Cream of Broccoli Soup?

Yes! Freezing is an excellent way to preserve your Cream of Broccoli Soup for later enjoyment. Allow the soup to cool completely before pouring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion when freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove for best results.

What can I add to enhance my Cream of Broccoli Soup?

There are numerous ingredients you can incorporate into your Cream of Broccoli Soup for added flavor and nutrition. Consider adding garlic or ginger during cooking for a nice kick. Introducing other vegetables like carrots or potatoes will add body while maintaining great taste. Spices such as nutmeg or crushed red pepper can elevate its profile even further!

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Cream of Broccoli Soup

• Author: christina
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of this homemade Cream of Broccoli Soup—a perfect blend of fresh broccoli, aromatic onions, and garlic that warms your heart and nourishes your soul. With a velvety texture and rich flavor, this soup is ideal for cozy evenings or as an elegant starter at dinner parties. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, you’ll find this dish not only delicious but also a delightful way to gather around the table with loved ones.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. 1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop broccoli into small pieces; dice the onion and mince garlic.
2. 2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the onion until translucent (about 5 minutes), then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. 3. Add Broccoli and Broth: Stir in chopped broccoli followed by vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes until broccoli is tender.
4. 4. Blend Until Smooth: Use an immersion blender or transfer to a countertop blender in batches to puree the soup until smooth.
5. 5. Stir in Cream: Return blended soup to the pot on low heat. Mix in heavy cream (or milk) until well combined. Season with salt and pepper as desired.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 590mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in grated cheese after blending for extra creaminess. If you prefer a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of broth or blend in extra cooked broccoli. This soup can be made vegan by omitting dairy ingredients and using coconut milk instead.