In this article, we will explore some of the best soup recipes with broccoli and guide you step-by-step on how to make them.
Broccoli is a powerhouse of nutrients and is often called a superfood. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, it is a versatile ingredient that lends itself well to various dishes, including soups. There are many ways to prepare delicious and nourishing soup recipes with broccoli, from the classic creamy version to more adventurous and exotic flavors.
Best Soup Recipes with Broccoli
1. Classic Cream of Broccoli Soup
This traditional creamy soup is a comfort food classic that never goes out of style. Rich, velvety, and full of flavor, it is perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a fancy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chopped broccoli (including fresh broccoli florets & broccoli stems)
– 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
3. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can also use a regular blender, but make sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending and blend in batches if necessary.
4. Broccoli stir fry in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup on low until warmed through.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated cheddar cheese if desired.
2. Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This hearty and cheesy flavor soup is a crowd-pleaser, and for a good reason. The combination of broccoli and cheddar is a match made in heaven, and the result is a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chopped broccoli (including stems)
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup milk or cream
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the milk or cream and flour until smooth. Slowly pour the mixture into the soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, with extra cheese on top if desired.
3. Broccoli and Potato Soup
This hearty and filling soup combines broccoli and potatoes, two staples that work perfectly together. The result is a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chopped broccoli or roasted broccoli (if desired) (including stems)
– 3 cups peeled and diced potatoes
– 5 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli, potatoes, broth, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until desired consistency is reached. You can leave it slightly chunky for more texture or blend until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup on low until warmed through.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
4. Thai Broccoli and Coconut Soup
This exotic and flavorful soup combines broccoli with the rich taste of coconut milk and the zesty kick of Thai spices. It’s a unique and delicious way to enjoy broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chopped broccoli (including stems)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (13.5 ounces) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons red curry paste
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt, to taste
– Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, sliced red chili
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the onion, ginger, and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
3. Stir in the coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the flavors are well combined.
4. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until desired consistency is reached. You can leave it slightly chunky for more texture or blend until smooth.
5. Stir in the lime juice and season with salt to taste. Heat the soup on low until warmed through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, and sliced red chili if desired.
5. Broccoli and White Bean Soup
This healthy and satisfying soup combines broccoli with creamy white beans for a protein-packed meal. It’s a great option for vegetarians and vegans, or anyone looking for a nutritious and delicious soup.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chopped broccoli (including stems)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese (vegan or dairy)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli, vegetable broth, white beans, and rosemary to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
3. Using an immersion blender, puree half of the soup, leaving the other half chunky for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can also use a regular blender, but make sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending and blend in batches if necessary.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup on low until warmed through.
5. Serve hot, sprinkle some lemon juice, garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Conclusion
Broccoli is not only a nutritious ingredient but also a versatile one, as demonstrated by these five delicious soup recipes. From the classic broccoli soup recipe to the exotic Thai coconut version, there’s a broccoli soup for every taste and occasion. Give these recipes a try, and you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy this superfood. Happy cooking!