Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water.
- Cut them into small bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic:
- In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Make Roux:
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic in the pot.
- Stir continuously to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
- Add Broth and Broccoli:
- Gradually pour in the vegetable or chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Simmer:
- Bring the soup to a simmer over medium-low heat.
- Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend (Optional):
- For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Be cautious, it will be hot!
- Add Heavy Cream and Cheese:
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir until well combined.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese while stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Season:
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Serve:
- Ladle the broccoli cheese soup into bowls.
- Optionally, you can garnish with additional shredded cheese or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the soup hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
This recipe makes about 4 servings of delicious broccoli cheese soup. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a dinner party