As the temperatures drop and the chill of winter settles in, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy broccoli soup to cozy up with. This nourishing dish not only warms the body but also delights the senses with its smooth texture and rich flavors. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting starter for a gathering, this creamy broccoli soup is a perfect choice. Let’s delve into the details of this delightful recipe!
| Difficulty | Prep Time | Cooking Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Easy | 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 |
Ingredients
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- 1 tablespoon olive oil
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- 1 medium onion, chopped
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- 2 cloves garlic, minced
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- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
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- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
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- 1 cup heavy cream
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- Salt and pepper to taste
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- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
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- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Execution
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- Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
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- Cook the Broccoli:
To the pot, add the fresh broccoli florets and sauté for about 3 minutes. This will enhance their flavor and bright green color.
- Cook the Broccoli:
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- Add the Broth:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Add the Broth:
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- Blend the Soup:
Once the broccoli is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully purée the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. For a smoother texture, you can also blend it in batches using a regular blender.
- Blend the Soup:
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- Stir in the Cream:
Return the pot to low heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing well until heated through. Add salt and pepper to taste. If you’d like a hint of brightness, add the lemon juice and stir.
- Stir in the Cream:
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- Serve and Garnish:Ladle the creamy broccoli soup into bowls. Optional: sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor before serving.
Additional Tips
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- Make it Vegan: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative to create a vegan version of this soup.
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- Enhance the Flavor: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or dill to add more depth to your soup.
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- Leftovers: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens.
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- Serve with Crusty Bread: Pair your creamy broccoli soup with a slice of crusty bread or garlic toast for a satisfying meal.
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- Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Embrace the comfort of creamy broccoli soup this season and let every spoonful wrap you in warmth and satisfaction. Enjoy!
