Broccoli cream soup

Broccoli cream soup – a simple and healthy delicacy, perfect for any occasion

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction
In a hectic world, sometimes the best way to indulge ourselves is with a steaming bowl of broccoli cream soup. This quick and simple recipe is not only packed with nutrients but also incredibly tasty. Broccoli is a superfood, rich in vitamins and antioxidants, and the combination with cream and spices will transform every spoonful into an explosion of flavors.

A bit of history
Broccoli cream soup has deep roots in the culinary tradition of creamy soups, but its popularity has grown exponentially in recent decades as more people have begun to appreciate healthy eating. It has become a popular choice in modern restaurants, often served as an appetizer or main course. Today, I invite you to discover my favorite recipe, which is not only easy to prepare but also extremely satisfying.

Ingredients
- 1 small cube of butter (about 25 g)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1/4 celery, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cups of water or vegetable broth
- 8 fresh broccoli florets
- 1 teaspoon of flour
- 1 tablespoon of cream (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg
- A pinch of ground cumin (optional)

For serving:
- Toasted bread croutons, spread with butter mixed with garlic and parsley

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the broccoli well and cutting it into small florets. This will help the vegetables cook evenly. Also, dice the celery and chop the onion into small pieces. These vegetables will provide a flavorful base for the soup.

2. Heating the oils
In a large pot, add the butter and olive oil. Heat them over medium heat until the butter is completely melted. This combination of fats will add a rich flavor to your soup.

3. Sautéing the vegetables
Add the onion and celery to the pot. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until they become soft and translucent. These vegetables are essential for building the flavor base of your soup.

4. Cooking the broccoli
Now add the broccoli florets and the 3 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let the vegetables simmer for 10-12 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and easy to mash.

5. Blending the soup
Once the broccoli is cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the mixture directly in the pot. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender, being careful to transfer the soup in small batches. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency. Gradually add some of the liquid the vegetables were cooked in until the soup reaches your desired consistency. Personally, I prefer a thinner soup, but you can adjust according to your taste.

6. Creating the texture
Separately, in a small pot, heat a teaspoon of flour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add the cream and a cup of the liquid in which the vegetables were cooked, mixing well. Begin to add the mixture to the soup, little by little, continuing to stir to achieve a creamy texture.

7. Seasoning
Season the soup with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and cumin to taste. These spices will add a touch of warmth and complexity, perfectly complementing the flavor profile of the broccoli.

8. Serving
For an extra texture, prepare croutons from toasted bread. Cut the bread into cubes, fry them in a pan with butter mixed with garlic and parsley for an intense flavor. Serve the cream soup hot, with croutons on top, and if desired, you can add a teaspoon of cream for an elegant touch.

Practical tips
- Use fresh broccoli for a more intense flavor. If it’s not available, frozen broccoli is a good alternative, but make sure to thaw it completely before use.
- You can replace the cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version that will still maintain creaminess.
- If you like a spicier taste, you can add a pinch of chili pepper during the sautéing of the vegetables.

Vegan option
For a vegan broccoli cream soup, replace the butter with coconut oil and the cream with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut cream or blended silken tofu.

Ideal pairings
This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted seed bread or a fresh salad. You can accompany it with a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade to enhance the feeling of freshness.

Nutritional information
This broccoli cream soup is an excellent option for a healthy meal. One serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 150 calories, being rich in vitamins A, C, K, and fiber. The nutritional benefits of broccoli include supporting the immune system and reducing the risk of chronic conditions.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! Carrots, zucchini, or potatoes can be added to diversify the flavor and nutrition.
2. How can I store the soup?
Broccoli cream soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.
3. Is this soup suitable for vegans?
Yes, with a few simple modifications, such as replacing the cream with a vegan alternative, you can make this soup completely vegan.

Conclusion
Broccoli cream soup is not only a quick recipe but also a delicious way to incorporate healthy vegetables into your diet. Whether you prepare it for a quick dinner during the week or as an appetizer for a special meal, this soup will surely be a hit. So grab your ingredients and let’s cook together! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 1 small cube of butter, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a quarter of celery, 1 chopped onion, 3 cups of water or vegetable broth, 8 florets of broccoli, 1 teaspoon of flour, black pepper, nutmeg, ground cumin, 1 tablespoon of sour cream