Prepare the Vegetables:
Wash and cut the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces.
Finely chop the onion.
Peel and chop the carrot (optional).
Mince the garlic cloves.
Sauté the Onion:
Heat some vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Butter and Garlic:
Add a pat of butter to the pot with the softened onion.
Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Cook the Carrot (Optional):
Add the chopped carrot (if using) to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until it begins to soften.
Thicken the Soup:
Sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of flour over the vegetables in the pot.
Stir well to coat the vegetables and cook for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
Add Broth and Season:
Gradually whisk in 2-3 cups of your chosen broth (vegetable or chicken).
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cook the Broccoli:
Add the broccoli florets to the simmering soup.
Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. You can adjust the cooking time depending on your desired texture for the broccoli.
Add Cream and Cheese:
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream (or milk) and stir well to combine.
Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
Serve:
Remove the pot from the heat and serve the creamy broccoli soup hot. You can garnish with a sprinkle of additional shredded cheese, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Nutritional Value:
This soup is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the broccoli and other vegetables.
The broth and cream add protein, fat, and calcium.
You can adjust the calorie and fat content by using low-fat or fat-free milk instead of heavy cream.
Healthy Substitutions:
Low-Fat Options: For a lighter version, use low-fat or fat-free milk instead of heavy cream. You can also use low-fat cheese or omit the cheese altogether and rely on the cream for creaminess.
Gluten-Free Option: If you have gluten sensitivities, use a gluten-free flour alternative like almond flour or chickpea flour for the roux (flour and fat mixture). Make sure to check the labels of your broth and cheese as well to ensure they are gluten-free.
Vegetable Broth Option: For a vegan option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the cheese. You can add a pinch of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Flavor Variations:
Spices and Herbs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder for a touch of heat. You can also incorporate dried or fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for extra flavor.
Roasted Vegetables: For a deeper flavor, roast the broccoli florets and carrots for about 15-20 minutes before adding them to the soup.
Other Vegetables: Don’t be limited to broccoli! Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower, green beans, or zucchini.
Sausage or Chicken Addition: For a more substantial soup, you can add cooked sausage, diced chicken, or shredded leftover chicken before adding the cream and cheese.
Serving Ideas:
Bread Pairings: Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread, crackers, or bread rolls for dipping.
Salad Option: Enjoy a side salad with your soup for a complete and well-balanced meal.
Toppings: Garnish your soup with a sprinkle of additional cheese, croutons, chopped fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts:
This Creamy American Broccoli Soup is a versatile and delicious recipe that can be enjoyed by everyone. With a few simple adjustments and variations, you can customize it to fit your dietary needs and taste preferences. So get creative, have fun experimenting with different flavors and ingredients, and enjoy this comforting soup all week long!
Tips:
Variations: You can experiment with different cheeses in this recipe. Try using cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, or a combination for a different flavor profile.
For a Smoother Soup: If you prefer a completely smooth soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot after adding the cream and cheese.
Leftovers: Leftover broccoli soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
Conclusion:
This Creamy American Broccoli Soup is a delicious and easy-to-make weeknight meal. It’s packed with nutrients from the broccoli and vegetables, and the creamy broth is sure to warm you up. With a few simple adjustments and variations, you can customize this recipe to fit your taste preferences and dietary needs. So enjoy a bowl of this comforting soup anytime!
