Creamy broccoli soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or a light yet satisfying lunch. This recipe focuses on achieving a luxuriously creamy texture without relying on heavy cream, making it a healthier and equally delicious option. We’ll explore variations and answer frequently asked questions to ensure you create the perfect bowl of creamy broccoli soup every time.
What are the main ingredients in cream of broccoli soup?
The foundation of any great cream of broccoli soup rests on a few key ingredients: broccoli florets, a flavorful broth (chicken or vegetable), aromatics like onion and garlic, and a thickening agent to create that signature creaminess. While many recipes call for heavy cream, we'll show you how to achieve the same rich texture using more accessible and lighter alternatives.
How do you make cream of broccoli soup creamy without cream?
The secret to a creamy soup without relying on heavy cream lies in utilizing the natural starch from the broccoli itself and adding a touch of milk or unsweetened almond milk. Pureeing a portion of the cooked broccoli creates a velvety smooth base, while the milk adds richness without the heaviness of cream. We’ll delve into the precise technique later in the recipe.
How long does it take to make cream of broccoli soup?
From start to finish, this recipe takes approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on your cooking method. The majority of the time is spent cooking the broccoli and simmering the soup, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
What are some variations of cream of broccoli soup?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Cheesy Broccoli Soup: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the final simmering stage for an extra layer of flavor and richness.
- Spicy Broccoli Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Roasted Broccoli Soup: Roasting the broccoli before adding it to the soup intensifies its flavor and adds a subtle smoky note. Simply toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes before proceeding with the recipe.
- Bacon Broccoli Soup: Crumble cooked bacon into the soup for a savory and satisfying twist.
How to make creamy broccoli soup: A step-by-step guide
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, red pepper flakes, cooked bacon
Instructions:
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender-crisp.
- Simmer the soup: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend the soup: Carefully transfer about half of the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and puree until smooth and creamy. Return the pureed soup to the pot.
- Stir in milk and season: Stir in the milk (or almond milk), salt, and pepper. Heat through, but do not boil.
- Add optional ingredients: If desired, stir in the cheddar cheese, red pepper flakes, or cooked bacon.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with extra broccoli florets, a swirl of cream (optional), or croutons.
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional cream of broccoli soup. Remember to adjust seasonings to your preference and don't hesitate to experiment with different variations to find your perfect bowl!
