Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Blender or immersion blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli florets and broth to the pot and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Using a blender or immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth.
6. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Heat the soup over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
Low heat
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 400
Fat: 35g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 15g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Broccoli can be substituted with cauliflower or asparagus.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half and half or milk.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or ham for a heartier soup.
- Add diced potatoes for a thicker soup.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the broccoli, as it can become mushy.
- For a smoother soup, strain the pureed soup through a fine-mesh sieve.
- Garnish with additional shredded cheese, croutons, or chopped herbs.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the soup in individual bowls with a garnish of shredded cheese and chopped herbs.
Garnishes:
- Shredded cheese
- Croutons
- Chopped herbs
Pairings:
- Grilled cheese sandwich
- Caesar salad
- Garlic bread
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Crusty bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, simmer it over low heat until it thickens.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the soup to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftover soup in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Creamy broccoli soup is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. It is believed to have originated in France in the 18th century and has since become a popular dish around the world.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, and savory with a hint of sweetness from the broccoli.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the soup as a main course with a side salad or as a starter to a larger meal.
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