Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped into small florets
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons of 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 to low and let simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Using a blender or immersion blender, blend 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:
- Medium heat for sautéing
- Low heat for simmering and heating the soup
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 17g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Broccoli can be substituted with cauliflower or a mix of both.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or milk.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any type of cheese that melts well.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein.
- Add diced potatoes for a heartier soup.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Be careful when blending hot soup, as it can splatter.
- Use an immersion blender for easier blending and less mess.
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or cream 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 low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the soup in individual bowls with a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives.
Pairings:
- Serve with a crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Suggested side dishes:
- A simple green salad or roasted vegetables would pair well with this soup.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thin, simmer it over low heat until it thickens.
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or cream to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the soup to a safe temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Broccoli and cheese soup is a classic American comfort food that has been enjoyed for decades.
Flavor profiles:
- The soup is creamy and cheesy with a subtle broccoli flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the soup as a main course for lunch or dinner.
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