Broccoli cream soup

Broccoli cream soup is a delicious and nutritious dish, perfect for cool days or when you need a health boost. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines fine textures with rich tastes, providing you with a comforting meal that will delight the whole family. Moreover, it is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh ingredients, and it's quick to prepare. I invite you to discover the steps of this savory recipe!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 broccoli (approximately 300g)
- 1 medium onion
- 1/2 small celery
- 1 parsnip
- 1 small carrot
- 3 garlic cloves
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 medium potato
- 1 can of condensed milk (400ml)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup of grated parmesan (approximately 100g)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling and washing all the vegetables. Chop the onion, celery, parsnip, and carrot into small cubes. Don’t worry if they are not perfectly uniform; the soup will be blended at the end.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a medium pot, add the tablespoon of butter and let it melt over medium heat. Once melted, add the onion, celery, parsnip, carrot, and chopped garlic cloves. Add a cup of water and the bay leaves. Mix well and let the vegetables sauté, stirring occasionally, until the water significantly reduces and the vegetables become slightly translucent (about 5-7 minutes).

3. Boiling the broccoli: Break the broccoli into small florets, which you can later add to the soup. Boil them separately in salted water for about 10 minutes until they are soft but not overcooked, to retain their vibrant color and nutrients.

4. Adding the ingredients: Once the vegetables in the pot have sautéed, add the boiled broccoli florets, diced potato, and 1 liter of water. Let the soup simmer over medium heat for 30 minutes. This step will allow all the flavors to combine and become richer.

5. Blending: After 30 minutes, remove the bay leaves from the soup. Meanwhile, prepare a food processor. Pour the contents of the pot into the processor, add the condensed milk, half of the grated parmesan, salt, and pepper to taste. Process everything until it becomes a smooth cream.

6. Finishing the dish: Pour the cream obtained back into the pot and bring it to a boil. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if necessary. If the soup seems too thick, you can add a little water or condensed milk to achieve the desired consistency.

7. Serving: Serve the broccoli cream soup in deep bowls, sprinkled with the remaining grated parmesan and crispy croutons on top. The croutons add a pleasant texture and a delicious contrast to the smooth cream.

Useful tips:
- You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, for a more diverse version.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, add a pinch of chili or some chili flakes.
- The broccoli cream soup keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days, making it ideal for quick lunches.

Nutritional benefits:
Broccoli is known for its high content of vitamins C and K, as well as dietary fibers that contribute to healthy digestion. The condensed milk adds creaminess and a source of calcium.

Possible variations:
- You can replace the condensed milk with cream or Greek yogurt for a less sweet option.
- Substitute the parmesan with feta cheese or goat cheese for a distinct flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli is an excellent option and will reduce preparation time. Make sure to thaw it before adding it to the soup.

2. How can I make this soup vegan?
Replace the butter with olive oil and use almond milk or another plant-based milk instead of condensed milk.

3. What other dishes can I serve alongside the broccoli cream soup?
A fresh salad or a savory cheese tart are excellent accompaniments to complete the meal.

This broccoli cream soup is more than just a simple dish; it is a culinary journey that combines simple ingredients to create a sophisticated and comforting result. So, prepare your ingredients, follow the steps patiently, and enjoy a healthy and tasty meal!

 Ingredients: 1 broccoli, 1 onion, 1/2 small celery, 1 parsnip, 1 small carrot, 3 cloves of garlic, 2 bay leaves, 1 tablespoon of butter, 1 potato, 1 can of condensed milk, salt and pepper, 1 cup of grated parmesan.