Ingredients with Measurements:
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender or blender
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
3. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the chopped broccoli florets and bring the soup to a simmer. Cook until the broccoli is tender, about 10-15 minutes.
6. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth.
7. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
8. Season with salt to taste.
9. Serve the soup hot, topped with the crispy bacon.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 398
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 21g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian.
- You can use any type of cheese you like, such as Gouda or Swiss.
Variations:
- Add diced potatoes or carrots to the soup for extra texture and flavor.
- Use smoked paprika instead of black pepper for a smoky flavor.
- Add a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture.
- Be careful when blending hot liquids in a blender, as they can cause the lid to pop off. Blend in small batches and hold the lid down with a towel.
- If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or milk to thin it out.
Storage Instructions:
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the soup in individual bowls, topped with the crispy bacon and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.
Garnishes:
- Crispy bacon
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Shredded cheese
Pairings:
- Crusty bread
- Salad
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Grilled cheese sandwich
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the soup is too thin, whisk in a little more flour to thicken it.
- If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or milk to thin it out.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the bacon until crispy to prevent any bacteria from growing.
- Store leftover soup in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
- Broccoli cheese soup is a classic American comfort food that has been popular since the 1970s.
Flavor Profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, savory, smoky
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the soup as a main course for lunch or dinner.
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