ADVERTISEMENT
Ingredients for Broccoli Soup
This Broccoli Soup is incredibly simple and uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 1 medium head of broccoli (cut into florets)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, depending on preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter for richness)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional, for a creamy finish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a bright finish)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
How to Make Broccoli Soup
Making this comforting broccoli soup is easy, and it comes together in just a few simple steps. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic: Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
- Add the broccoli: Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for about 5 minutes. This will help the broccoli soften and release its natural flavors. If you want to retain the bright green color, make sure not to overcook it.
- Add the broth: Pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you prefer) and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 10-12 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and fully cooked.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
- Blend until smooth: Once the broccoli is tender, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until it’s creamy and smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids!
- Add the milk and cream: After blending, return the soup to the heat and stir in the milk (and heavy cream, if using) to make the soup extra creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Add Optional Ingredients
- Cheese: If you’re making a cheesy version, stir in the grated cheddar cheese while the soup is still hot, allowing it to melt and become fully incorporated into the soup for a rich, velvety texture.
- Lemon juice: To balance the richness, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving for a bit of brightness. It enhances the flavor of the broccoli and cuts through the creaminess.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Taste and adjust: Give the soup one final taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice, if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with extra cheese, croutons, or fresh herbs if you like. For an extra touch, you can drizzle a bit of olive oil or a dollop of sour cream on top.
Tips for Perfect Broccoli Soup
- Use fresh broccoli: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh broccoli rather than frozen. Fresh broccoli will give your soup a brighter, more vibrant color and a fuller, fresher taste.
- For extra richness: If you want an even richer soup, use half-and-half or whole milk in place of regular milk, or add more cream for a truly indulgent version.
- Make it vegan: You can easily make this soup vegan by using plant-based milk (like almond milk or oat milk) and skipping the cheese and cream. It will still be delicious and creamy!
- Blend for texture: If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can blend only half of the mixture and leave the rest of the broccoli in small pieces. This creates a wonderful texture contrast and lets the fresh flavor of the broccoli stand out.
- Customize the flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg, cayenne pepper, or even a dash of paprika for a unique twist on the flavor profile. You can also sprinkle some parmesan on top for added richness.
- Make it ahead: This soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep.
Why This Broccoli Soup is Like Medicine to Your Stomach
This Broccoli Soup is more than just a comforting meal; it’s packed with health benefits. The high levels of fiber help to support digestion, while broccoli’s antioxidants help reduce inflammation and protect the stomach lining. The creamy broth and addition of lemon juice make this soup soothing, refreshing, and gentle on sensitive stomachs.
Whether you’re feeling under the weather, recovering from an illness, or simply in need of a healthy, comforting meal, this soup acts like a natural remedy for your stomach and body. It’s like a warm, cozy hug in a bowl that nourishes from the inside out.
Conclusion
When you’re craving something that’s both nourishing and satisfying, look no further than this Broccoli Soup. Packed with nutrients, easy to make, and downright delicious, it’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly evening or whenever you need a little extra comfort. With its smooth, creamy texture and fresh, vibrant flavor, it truly is “like medicine to the stomach.” Give it a try, and you’ll see why this simple soup has become a go-to favorite in so many kitchens.
ADVERTISEMENT
