Creamy Broccoli Soup

When the weather turns cool, there is nothing quite as restorative as a bowl of Creamy Broccoli Soup. This recipe creates a velvety, comforting experience that elevates simple garden vegetables into a gourmet meal. Enriched with a savory vegetable broth and finished with a delicate swirl of cream, it is a soup that feels indulgent yet remains wonderfully wholesome.

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The secret to this soup's depth lies in the combination of aromatics and base vegetables. By sautéing the onion and garlic first, you build a foundation of flavor that perfectly complements the fresh, vibrant taste of the broccoli florets.

Ingredients

• Vegetables: 500 g broccoli florets (fresh or frozen), 1 medium onion (chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 medium potato (peeled and diced), 1 medium carrot (peeled and diced)
• Liquids: 1 L (4 cups) vegetable broth, 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream (or plant-based cream for vegan)
• Seasonings: 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter, ½ tsp salt (or to taste), ¼ tsp ground black pepper, pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
• Garnish: Extra cream, croutons, or chopped chives (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté

Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Step 2: Add Base

Add the diced potato and carrot. Cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Simmer

Add the broccoli florets and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15–18 minutes, until all vegetables are very tender.

Step 4: Blend

Remove from heat. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until completely smooth (or carefully transfer in batches to a blender).

Step 5: Finish

Stir in the heavy cream. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Reheat gently if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with extra cream, croutons, or chopped chives if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the smoothest possible texture, ensure that the potato and carrot pieces are completely soft before you begin blending. If you are using a standard stand blender, remember to work in small batches and hold the lid down with a kitchen towel to prevent steam from forcing the lid off.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make this recipe entirely vegan, use olive oil instead of butter and substitute the heavy cream with a thick plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew milk. You can also intensify the green color and nutritional value by adding a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the final minutes of simmering.

Serviervorschläge

This soup is a meal on its own when paired with a piece of crusty artisan bread for dipping. For a truly heartier lunch, serve it alongside a classic grilled cheese sandwich. A light sprinkle of white pepper can also be used for a milder heat and a cleaner aesthetic.

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Whether you enjoy it as a simple weekday lunch or a cozy weekend starter, this Creamy Broccoli Soup is a testament to how delicious fresh ingredients can be when prepared with care. Enjoy every spoonful of this velvety green goodness!

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I freeze this broccoli soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Leave some space as liquids expand when frozen. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.

→ How do I make this soup vegan?

Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk, cashew cream, or your favorite plant-based cream alternative. Use olive oil instead of butter. The result remains creamy and delicious while being completely dairy-free.

→ Why add potato to broccoli soup?

The potato acts as a natural thickener, adding body and creaminess without requiring additional dairy. It also helps balance the flavor and contributes to the velvety texture when blended with the broccoli and other vegetables.

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works perfectly well in this soup. There's no need to thaw beforehand—simply add the frozen florets directly to the pot when instructed. You may need to extend the simmering time by 2-3 minutes to ensure tenderness.

→ What can I serve with creamy broccoli soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic knots, or a classic grilled cheese sandwich. For a lighter option, serve with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette. The soup also makes an elegant starter for a multi-course meal.