This Cream of Broccoli Soup is the perfect comfort food, combining the wholesome flavors of fresh broccoli with a creamy, velvety base. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s ideal for a cozy lunch or dinner. The soup is easy to make, packed with nutrients, and can be enjoyed as a starter or a main course. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or just want to indulge in something rich and flavorful, this Cream of Broccoli Soup is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Broccoli: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes until the flour is lightly browned. This forms a roux that will thicken the soup.
- Add the Broth: Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until it thickens.
- Blend the Soup: Add the cooked broccoli to the pot. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just half of the soup, leaving some broccoli florets intact.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. If you want a cheesier flavor, stir in the Parmesan cheese.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley or chives. Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.
Enjoy your comforting and delicious Cream of Broccoli Soup!
