Broccoli cream soup

Broccoli cream soup is a rich and creamy dish that’s both comforting and healthy. It’s made with fresh broccoli, onions, garlic, and a creamy base, and can be easily adjusted to suit your taste. Here’s a simple recipe for a delicious broccoli cream soup:

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head of broccoli)
  • 1 medium potato, peeled and diced (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese (optional, for serving)
  • Fresh parsley or croutons, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large pot, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  2. Add Broccoli and Potato: Stir in the broccoli florets and diced potato (if using). Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the vegetables to soften slightly.

  3. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli and potato are tender.

  4. Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. Return the soup to the pot.

  5. Add Cream and Season: Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and season with dried thyme, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer the soup for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

  6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese, if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley or croutons for added texture.

Tips:

  • Make It Lighter: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or a plant-based alternative.
  • Texture: If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only part of the soup and leave some of the broccoli florets intact.
  • Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup before serving.

Enjoy your broccoli cream soup—a cozy, nutrient-packed meal that’s perfect for chilly days!