Broccoli soup

Broccoli Soup: A Healthy and Comforting Recipe

When it comes to soups, nothing compares to a warm and creamy broccoli soup. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with essential nutrients, making it perfect for a healthy meal any day of the week. We say goodbye to store-bought soups filled with additives and preservatives, and welcome a delicious and natural option.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 400 g fresh (or frozen) broccoli
- 2 large carrots
- 2 medium onions
- 300 ml milk (preferably whole for added creaminess)
- 250 g sour cream (choose a high-fat sour cream for a richer taste)
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-2.5 liters of water

Preparing the Broccoli Soup:

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Start by peeling and chopping the carrots and onions. The carrots can be sliced into rounds or diced, depending on your preference. Chop the onion finely. Then, clean the broccoli by breaking it into small florets. It is important that the broccoli florets are uniform to cook evenly.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot, add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the carrots and sauté them together with the onion for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step will enhance the flavors and add a tasty base to your soup.

Step 3: Boil the vegetables
Add the broccoli florets to the pot and pour in the water. Make sure the water covers all the vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until all the vegetables are tender. If the soup becomes too thick, you can add a little extra water.

Step 4: Mix the dairy ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream and egg yolks. Add a little hot soup to the sour cream mixture to temper it, then gradually pour it into the pot with the soup, stirring constantly. This step will add exceptional creaminess, turning the soup into a delicacy.

Step 5: Finish the soup
After adding the sour cream mixture, let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring gently. Finally, add salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle finely chopped dill on top before serving. The dill adds a fresh and pleasant taste, perfectly complementing the flavors of the soup.

Serving:
The broccoli soup is served hot, with a slice of fresh bread on the side or with crunchy croutons. For an extra burst of flavor, you can drizzle a little olive oil on top or even add some crispy bacon strips.

Nutritional Benefits:
Broccoli is a superfood, rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. It supports the immune system and contributes to digestive health. Carrots, in turn, are excellent sources of beta-carotene, important for eye health. Thus, this soup is not only delicious but also extremely healthy.

Possible Variations:
You can add other vegetables, such as potatoes or celery, to diversify the recipe. You can also turn the soup into a cream soup by blending it until completely smooth. If you enjoy stronger flavors, try adding garlic or spices like nutmeg or cumin.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli is an excellent option. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the soup.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
If you like a spicier taste, you can add a little chili pepper or cayenne pepper during cooking.

3. What other recipes pair well with broccoli soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a savory tart. It can also be combined with a glass of dry white wine, which will complement the flavors of the soup.

Remember, cooking is an art, and every recipe is an opportunity to express your creativity! Experiment and adapt this recipe to your taste, to create a broccoli soup that will become a favorite in your home. Bon appétit!