Andy Montoya
Broccoli cheese soup is a popular dish, but does it contain carbohydrates? The answer is yes—a conventional bowl of broccoli cheese soup can contain up to 25 grams of carbohydrates per serving. However, the good news for soup lovers is that low-carb versions of this recipe exist, typically involving the use of vegetable stock and a careful selection of cheeses. These keto-friendly alternatives provide a comforting and tasty option with only 6 to 11 grams of net carbs per serving. So, whether you're watching your carb intake or simply curious, now you know that a warm bowl of broccoli cheese soup can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Does broccoli and cheese soup have carbs?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates per serving | 5-25g |
| Net carbs per serving | 2-8.3g |
| Calories per serving | 195-294 kcal |
| Fat per serving | 17-20.2g |
| Protein per serving | 12-14.9g |
| Fiber per serving | 2.3-6.41g |
| Sodium per serving | 803-2000 mg |
| Sugar per serving | 6.41g |
| Preparation time | 30 minutes |
| Storage | Refrigerate for 3-7 days, or freeze for up to 3 months |
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What You'll Learn
Broccoli cheese soup is not low-carb
However, there are ways to make a low-carb version of broccoli cheese soup. For example, one recipe for Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup has only 8.3g of carbs and 2.3g of fiber per serving, resulting in 6g net carbs. Another recipe has only 5g of carbohydrates and 3g of fiber per serving, resulting in 2g net carbs.
To make a low-carb broccoli cheese soup, you can use a thickening agent such as xanthan gum or arrowroot powder instead of flour or cornstarch. You can also add extra low-carb vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli florets, or kale to bulk up the soup. Additionally, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth can help reduce the carb count.
It's important to note that while broccoli cheese soup can be made low-carb, it is still important to consume it in moderation due to its high sodium content. A bowl of broccoli cheese soup typically contains around 2,000 milligrams of sodium, which exceeds the recommended daily limit set by the American Heart Association.
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Keto broccoli cheese soup recipes
Broccoli cheese soup is a favourite soup recipe for many, but it often contains a lot of carbohydrates. Traditional recipes contain 20-30 grams of carbohydrates per serving, with thickening agents such as flour or cornstarch contributing to the carb count. However, there are several keto-friendly alternatives that reduce the carb count without sacrificing flavour.
Ingredients
- Broccoli: Use fresh or frozen broccoli, chopped into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. You can also blend the broccoli to create a silky smooth soup.
- Cheese: Shred your own cheese from a block, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting and create a grainy texture. Cheddar, mozzarella, and smoked gouda are great options.
- Cream: Heavy cream or cream cheese adds richness and flavour.
- Broth: Chicken broth or chicken bone broth is a common choice, but you can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Spices: Garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika add depth of flavour.
Method
- Cook the onions and garlic in butter over medium heat until fragrant.
- Add the remaining ingredients except for the cheese and bring to a boil. Simmer until the broccoli is tender.
- Add the cheese gradually, stirring until melted and combined.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- For a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to blend until you reach your desired consistency.
Variations
- Thicken the soup: Add xanthan gum or arrowroot powder to thicken the soup, but note that arrowroot will increase the carb count.
- Extra vegetables: Bulk up the soup with low-carb veggies like cauliflower, broccoli florets, or kale.
Nutritional Information
The carb count for keto broccoli cheese soup varies depending on the recipe and ingredients used. Some recipes yield as little as 2 grams of net carbs per serving, while others range from 6 to 11 grams of carbohydrates.
Storage
Keto broccoli cheese soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-7 days. It can also be frozen, but the texture may change upon reheating.
Reviews
Those who have tried these keto broccoli cheese soup recipes have given them positive reviews, praising their flavour, ease of preparation, and compatibility with dietary restrictions like gestational diabetes and vegetarianism.
Now you have all the information and recipes you need to make a delicious keto-friendly broccoli cheese soup!
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Carbohydrates in traditional broccoli cheese soup
Broccoli cheese soup is a comforting and creamy dish, but it's important to be aware of its nutritional content, especially if you're watching your carbohydrate intake. Traditional broccoli cheese soup typically contains a significant amount of carbohydrates, which can vary depending on the specific recipe and serving size.
A cup of broccoli cheese soup generally contains around 18.6 grams of carbohydrates, while a bowl (usually 1.5 cups or 12 ounces) can have about 23.3 grams. The addition of a bread bowl can further increase the carb count by approximately 130 grams, bringing the total to around 153 grams. It's worth noting that these values can differ based on the ingredients and portion sizes used in various recipes.
The carbohydrate content in traditional broccoli cheese soup often stems from several sources. Many recipes include flour or cornstarch as thickeners, contributing to the overall carb count. Additionally, vegetables like carrots, which are commonly found in broccoli cheese soup, can also add to the carbohydrate content. Some recipes may even contain added sugars, further increasing the carb intake.
However, it's important to distinguish between traditional broccoli cheese soup and its keto-friendly variations. Keto broccoli cheese soup is specifically designed to be low in carbohydrates, typically yielding only 2 to 6 grams of net carbs per serving. These recipes often use alternative ingredients and thickeners to reduce the carb count while still delivering a creamy and flavorful soup.
In summary, while traditional broccoli cheese soup can be relatively high in carbohydrates, keto-friendly versions offer a satisfying alternative for those seeking to limit their carb intake. These recipes showcase how it's possible to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup while still adhering to specific dietary preferences or requirements.
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Nutritional value of broccoli cheese soup
Broccoli cheese soup is a comforting and tasty meal, but it is important to be aware of its nutritional value, especially its carbohydrate content.
A conventional broccoli cheese soup can be high in carbohydrates, with around 20-30 grams of carbohydrates per serving. This is due to the use of thickeners such as flour or cornstarch, as well as the addition of carrots and sugars in some recipes. For example, a serving of the popular Panera soup contains 25 grams of carbohydrates.
However, there are ways to reduce the carbohydrate content of broccoli cheese soup. One option is to make a keto version of the soup, which typically has a much lower carb count. For instance, one recipe for keto broccoli cheese soup yields six 1 1/2 cup servings, with each serving containing only 2 grams of net carbs. Another keto recipe has 6 grams of net carbs per serving. These low-carb versions often use alternative thickeners like xanthan gum or arrowroot powder, and may include additional low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli florets, or kale.
In addition to its carbohydrate content, broccoli cheese soup also provides a significant amount of calories, with a bowl of the soup containing around 263 calories. The sodium content is also notable, with a bowl of broccoli cheese soup containing 2,000 milligrams of sodium, which exceeds the recommended daily limit of 1,500 milligrams. Therefore, while broccoli cheese soup can be a tasty treat, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
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How to make low-carb broccoli cheese soup
Broccoli cheese soup is a comforting and hearty meal, perfect for cold weather. While it is usually a high-carb dish, there are ways to make it low-carb. Here is a recipe for a delicious and creamy low-carb broccoli cheese soup.
First, prepare your ingredients. You will need butter, celery, onion, garlic powder, paprika, broccoli, stock, cheese, salt, and pepper. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. You can also add some red pepper flakes and spinach for extra flavour and colour.
Now, let's start cooking! Melt the butter in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the celery and onion and cook until softened. Then, add the garlic powder and paprika and stir. Next, add the broccoli and pour in the stock. Cover the pot and simmer until the broccoli is tender, which should take about 10 to 15 minutes.
If you prefer a chunky soup, remove a cup of broccoli with a slotted spoon and set it aside. For an extra thick soup, ladle out some stock so that it just covers the broccoli. Now, it's time to add the cheese! Add it gradually, and make sure the temperature is fairly low, otherwise, the cheese may clump up. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully blended.
Finally, season your soup with salt and pepper, to taste. If you prefer a smooth and creamy soup, use an immersion blender to blend until your desired consistency is reached. You can also use a food processor or a regular blender if you don't have a hand blender.
Your low-carb broccoli cheese soup is now ready to be served! This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week and can also be frozen for later enjoyment.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, broccoli and cheese soup contains carbohydrates. The amount of carbs varies depending on the recipe and serving size, ranging from 2 grams to 25 grams of carbs per serving.
On average, a bowl of broccoli and cheese soup (approximately 12 ounces or 1 1/2 cups) contains around 23 to 26 grams of carbohydrates.
Yes, there are low-carb options available for broccoli and cheese soup. Some recipes are specifically designed to be keto-friendly, with net carb counts ranging from 2 to 8.3 grams per serving.
Traditional broccoli and cheese soup recipes often contain flour or cornstarch as thickeners, contributing to a higher carb count. Other ingredients such as carrots, onions, and certain types of stock or broth with added sugars can also add carbohydrates.
