Broccoli cream soup

Revitalize yourself with a creamy broccoli soup! A simple, quick recipe that is full of flavor and nutrients, perfect for any meal. This soup not only provides culinary comfort but also a healthy serving of vitamins. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main course, this soup will bring a smile to anyone's face.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

A brief history of broccoli soup

Creamy broccoli soup is a popular recipe in many cultures, appreciated for its versatility and for how it transforms simple ingredients into something refined. Broccoli, a vegetable rich in vitamins C and K, has a delicate and slightly sweet taste, perfect to be complemented by the creamy texture of the soup. This recipe has been adapted from a traditional version, enhanced with accessible pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

- 1 small cube of butter (about 20g) – for a rich flavor
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil – choose a good quality oil to add flavor
- 1/4 celery (about 100g), chopped – adds a hint of sweetness
- 1 medium onion, chopped – for a deeper flavor
- 8 broccoli florets (about 300g) – fresh or frozen
- 3 cups of water or vegetable broth (about 750ml) – vegetable broth can add extra flavor
- 1 teaspoon of flour – to thicken the soup
- 1 tablespoon of cream (optional) – for added creaminess
- Salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and ground cumin (to taste) – the perfect spices to highlight the flavors
- Toasted bread croutons with butter, garlic, and parsley (for serving)

Step by step: How to prepare creamy broccoli soup

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing the broccoli well and cutting it into florets. Finely chop the onion and celery. These vegetables will form the base of your soup.

2. Heat the oils: In a large pot, add the cube of butter and the two tablespoons of olive oil. Heat over medium heat until the butter is completely melted.

3. Sauté the vegetables: Add the onion and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. This step develops the base flavors of the soup.

4. Add the broccoli: Place the broccoli florets in the pot and mix well. Add the water or vegetable broth, then bring everything to a boil. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the broccoli is tender.

5. Blend the soup: Once the broccoli is cooked, use an immersion blender or a regular blender to turn the mixture into a smooth cream. If the soup is too thick, you can add some of the cooking liquid to achieve the desired consistency.

6. Thicken the soup (optional): In a small pot, heat a teaspoon of flour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir constantly, then add the cream and a cup of the cooking liquid. Mix well to avoid lumps. Add this mixture to the soup, stirring continuously.

7. Season: Add salt, pepper, nutmeg, and ground cumin to taste. These spices will add an extra layer of flavor to your soup.

8. Serve: Pour the creamy broccoli soup into bowls and garnish with crispy croutons made from toasted bread spread with butter mixed with garlic and parsley. These will add a pleasant contrast of textures.

9. Enjoy: Savor every spoonful of this nourishing and revitalizing soup!

Practical tips

- Choosing ingredients: Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor, but frozen can also work well.
- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as potatoes or carrots, to enrich the soup. Additionally, you can make it spicier by adding chili flakes.
- Beverage pairing: Creamy broccoli soup pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Nutritional information

This soup is rich in vitamins C, K, and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a light and healthy meal. One serving contains approximately 150 calories, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of vegetables? Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables, such as spinach or cauliflower, to create delicious variations.
- How can I store the soup? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for later consumption.

This creamy broccoli soup is not just a delicious dish but also a healthy choice that can be adapted to personal tastes. So, prepare your ingredients and let the comforting flavors of this recipe take you away! Enjoy your meal!