Frederic Melton
Broccoli cheese soup is a popular dish, with many recipes available online. It is often described as a cozy classic and a comfort food that is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender pieces of broccoli. The soup is usually made with a combination of milk, vegetable broth, carrots, and spices, in addition to the key ingredients of broccoli and cheese. Some recipes call for the addition of bacon bits, croutons, or bread bowls for serving. The cheese used can vary, with sharp cheddar being a popular choice, but other options include Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a mix of several cheeses. The soup can also be modified to be vegan or gluten-free. Overall, broccoli cheese soup is a tasty and comforting dish that can be easily made at home.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Taste | Rich, creamy, tangy, cheesy |
| Texture | Thick, smooth, creamy |
| Ingredients | Broccoli, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, butter, flour, milk, vegetable broth, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, spices |
| Time | Ready in 1 hour |
| Ease of preparation | Easy |
| Vegetarian option | Yes |
| Vegan option | Yes |
| Freezer-friendly | Yes |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Broccoli cheese soup is a comfort food
The key ingredients in broccoli cheese soup are broccoli, cheese, milk, and butter. However, many people like to add other vegetables such as carrots, onions, and celery to enhance the flavour and add texture. Spices like smoked paprika, mustard powder, cayenne pepper, and nutmeg can also be added for an extra kick.
The type of cheese used in the soup is important, as it greatly affects the flavour. Sharp cheddar cheese is a popular choice as it adds a strong, tangy flavour. However, mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack can also be used, depending on your preference. It is recommended to grate the cheese yourself, as pre-shredded cheese may not melt as well and can affect the creamy texture of the soup.
Broccoli cheese soup can be made in about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the recipe. It is a simple process of sautéing vegetables, creating a roux with butter and flour, and then adding milk or cream, broth, and cheese. The soup can be blended for a smoother texture or left chunky, and it can be served with crusty bread or croutons for dipping.
The soup is so beloved that it has become a comfort food for many. It is often compared to the famous Panera Bread broccoli cheese soup, with some claiming that their homemade versions are even better. The soup is perfect for enjoying on its own or pairing with a sandwich, making it a satisfying and comforting meal.
Cheese Pasta: Friend or Foe in Weight Loss?
You may want to see also
It's easy to make at home
Broccoli cheese soup is easy to make at home. It's a simple recipe that can be made in just about 30 minutes, though some recipes may take up to an hour. It's the ultimate comfort food and is super flavorful with a salty, cheesy soup base and perfectly cooked broccoli.
To make broccoli cheese soup, you'll need a large pot or Dutch oven, butter, onion, garlic, flour, milk, vegetable broth or chicken broth, broccoli, and cheese. Some recipes also call for carrots, celery, and various seasonings.
Start by melting the butter in the pot over medium heat. Then, add the onion and cook until it's softened and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute or so. Next, add the flour and cook, whisking constantly, for a couple of minutes until the flour is thickened and golden.
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Then, add the broth, broccoli, and any other vegetables and seasonings. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 15 to 25 minutes.
While the soup is simmering, grate your cheese. Once the vegetables are tender, gradually add the cheese, stirring after each addition, until all the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve with crusty bread or croutons if desired.
That's it! You've now got a delicious, creamy, and cheesy broccoli soup that's perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting lunch.
Durka Cheese: A Healthy Treat for Dogs?
You may want to see also
It's creamy and cheesy
Broccoli cheese soup is a creamy and cheesy delight that can be easily made at home. It is a comforting meal, perfect for chilly days. The soup is rich, creamy, and loaded with tender vegetables. The key to achieving the perfect creaminess is to use whole milk, which is traditional, or unsweetened almond milk. You can also use all half-and-half or fat-free half-and-half as a creamy thickener.
To make the soup extra cheesy, grate a cup of sharp cheddar cheese and stir it in. It is important to grate the cheese yourself, as pre-shredded cheese may not melt as well due to anti-caking agents. You can also add cream cheese to make it even creamier. The cheese should be added gradually, stirring after each addition, to ensure it melts smoothly into the soup.
The soup is best served with crusty bread or croutons, and some recipes suggest adding carrots, spices, and onions for extra flavour. It can be made in about 30 minutes and is a great comfort food, perfect for the whole family.
Some people also add mustard powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to give it a spicy kick. You can also add celery and garlic powder for extra flavour. Broccoli cheese soup is a versatile dish that can be made vegetarian or vegan, and it can be frozen and reheated for a quick and easy meal.
The Ultimate Broccoli and Cheese: A Simple Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
It's best with sharp cheddar
Broccoli cheese soup is a popular dish, with many recipes available online. It is often described as a comforting and tasty meal, with a creamy texture and rich, tangy, cheesy flavour. The soup is also considered easy to make, with most recipes taking around 30 minutes to an hour to prepare and cook.
The soup typically includes ingredients such as broccoli, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, butter, flour, milk, vegetable broth, and of course, cheese. While some recipes call for mild cheddar, others suggest that sharp cheddar cheese is the best choice for a broccoli cheese soup.
Sharp cheddar has a more intense and pronounced flavour compared to mild cheddar. Its sharp, tangy taste can stand up to the other strong ingredients in the soup, such as garlic, onion, and dijon mustard. Sharp cheddar also tends to have a firmer texture, which can help it retain its shape and not melt too quickly when added to the soup. This can lead to a better overall texture in the final dish.
When making broccoli cheese soup with sharp cheddar, it is important to grate the cheese yourself. Pre-shredded cheese is often coated in anti-caking agents, which can prevent it from melting smoothly into the soup. By grating your own sharp cheddar, you can ensure that it melts evenly and creates a creamy, luscious texture.
Additionally, when adding the cheese to the soup, it is best to do so gradually and over low heat. This allows the cheese to melt slowly and incorporate fully into the soup, resulting in a smooth and creamy consistency. With its bold flavour and melting properties, sharp cheddar cheese truly elevates broccoli cheese soup, making it a hearty and indulgent meal.
Wisconsin Cheese: Worth the Hype?
You may want to see also
It can be frozen
Broccoli cheese soup can be frozen, but it is not recommended. Freezing and thawing creamy and cheesy soups can cause them to separate and become grainy. However, some people have successfully frozen and reheated broccoli cheese soup, and there are ways to minimise the negative effects of freezing.
One way to preserve the soup's quality is to freeze it before adding the cheese. You can portion out the soup without cheese, freeze it, and then add grated cheese to melt when reheating. This method allows you to freeze the soup without compromising its texture.
Another option is to use frozen broccoli in your soup. Some recipes call for steaming the broccoli before adding it to the soup, but using frozen broccoli can simplify the process. You can cook the frozen broccoli directly in the soup, and it will thaw as it cooks. This method can also help reduce the mushiness that sometimes occurs when using fresh broccoli.
When freezing broccoli cheese soup, it is essential to store it in an airtight container. Proper storage ensures that the soup remains safe to eat and minimises changes in texture or taste.
Additionally, when reheating frozen soup, it is best to use a low heat setting on the stove or a microwave. Stir the soup well before serving to ensure even heating and to help restore its creamy texture.
While freezing broccoli cheese soup may alter its texture and is not ideal, it can be a viable option if you want to preserve leftovers or prepare the soup in advance.
Cheddar Cheese: Perfect Quesadilla Addition?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Broccoli cheese soup is a delicious, creamy, and comforting dish that can be easily made at home. It is a popular recipe, with many people declaring their love for it.
The soup is a great comfort food, with a rich and creamy texture, and a tangy, cheesy flavour. It is also versatile, with many optional spices and ingredients that can be added to suit individual tastes.
This soup can be made in just 30 minutes, or up to an hour depending on the recipe and method used. It is a simple recipe with easy-to-follow steps, making it a convenient and tasty meal option.
