Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Broccoli cheddar soup is a rich and creamy soup made with pureed broccoli, cheddar cheese, and usually some type of cream or milk. It is typically served as a starter or side dish in American cuisine, but can also be enjoyed as a main course.
Delicious and Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: A Comforting Homemade Recipe
Introduction
Few meals are as universally loved for their comforting embrace as a steaming bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This creamy delight has secured its place on dinner tables and in the hearts of food enthusiasts and home cooks alike for its rich flavor and heartwarming qualities.
Benefits of Homemade Soup
Opting to create your own broccoli cheddar soup from scratch has numerous advantages. Not only can you sidestep the preservatives and excessive sodium often found in store-bought options, but you also gain full control over your ingredients. This means you can customize your soup to suit dietary preferences or just to add a personal touch.
Ingredients and Preparation
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small-sized onion, chopped
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 1 small-sized carrot, julienned
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 cups half-and-half cream
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the garlic and onion until translucent and aromatic.
- Add the flour and cook, continually stirring, for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually stir in chicken stock, ensuring to whisk out any lumps for a smooth consistency.
- Add the carrots and broccoli florets, cover, and let them cook for 5 minutes, or until tender.
- Pour in the half-and-half cream and allow the soup to heat through.
- Stir in the grated cheddar cheese slowly and season the soup with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
- Once the cheese is melted and the soup is well mixed, remove from heat and prepare to serve.
Tips for Perfecting the Soup
Achieving the velvety consistency and deep flavor of Broccoli Cheddar Soup is an art. Here are some tips to help you master it:
- Use sharp or aged cheddar for more pronounced flavor.
- Allow the cheese to melt slowly into the soup to avoid clumping.
- If you prefer a smoother soup, consider puréeing it with an immersion blender before adding the cheese.
- Always taste and adjust your seasoning gradually to ensure a balance that suits your palate.
Variations and Additions
Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients to personalize your soup:
- For a smoky twist, add a hint of smoked paprika or some crispy bacon bits.
- Stir in some cooked quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal.
- Garnish with croutons or a drizzle of truffle oil for enhanced texture and flavor.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve your Broccoli Cheddar Soup with a side of crusty bread or a light salad to complete the meal. For an elegant touch, garnish with extra grated cheese, a sprinkle of paprika, or fresh herbs like parsley.
Homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup represents the ultimate in comfort food. This recipe not only fills the belly but also lifts the spirits with its creamy goodness and nurturing warmth. Whether on a bleak winter day or as a part of a cozy weeknight dinner, this soup promises satisfaction in every spoonful.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is broccoli cheddar soup made of?
Broccoli cheddar soup is typically made with a base of chicken or vegetable broth, onions, garlic, butter, flour, milk or cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Broccoli florets are added and cooked until tender.
Is broccoli cheddar soup good or bad for you?
Whether broccoli cheddar soup is good or bad for you depends on the specific ingredients and recipe used. Generally speaking, this type of soup can be high in fat and calories due to the use of butter and cheese. However, it also contains nutrients from the broccoli such as fiber and vitamins A, C, and K.
Why is broccoli cheddar soup not vegetarian?
The reason why broccoli cheddar soup may not be vegetarian is because many recipes call for chicken broth or bacon as a flavoring agent.
Why is Broccoli Cheddar Soup good for you?
Broccoli cheddar soup can be considered healthy due to the nutritional benefits from the vegetables – specifically the cruciferous vegetable broccoli which has anti-inflammatory properties – when consumed in moderation as part of an overall balanced diet plan.
More Favorite Soup Recipes
After enjoying this mouthwatering broccoli cheddar soup, why not try these other delectable options:
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 whole onion small-sized, chopped
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 1 whole carrot small-sized, julienned
- 1 head broccoli florets
- 2 cups half-in-half cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese grated
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper ground
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Melt butter and sauté garlic and onion.
- Add flour, cook and stir over medium heat for 2 minutes.
- Stir in chicken stock.
- Add carrot and broccoli, stir. Cover and cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in half & half cream.
- Add cheddar cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
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