5-minute Broccoli Soup

5-minute Broccoli Soup Recipe | Easy and Quick Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This 5-minute Broccoli Soup recipe is a quick and easy solution for anyone looking to enjoy a warm, comforting, and nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines the wholesome goodness of broccoli with the creamy richness of white cheddar cheese, creating a delicious soup that's sure to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds.

History

The concept of broccoli soup has been around for centuries, with variations found in many different cultures. This particular recipe, with its emphasis on speed and simplicity, is a modern adaptation designed for today's fast-paced lifestyle. It draws inspiration from traditional cream of broccoli soup recipes but streamlines the process without compromising on flavor.

Ingredients

10 oz frozen chopped broccoli
1.5 tbsp butter
3 tbsp finely chopped onion
2 tbsp flour
2.5 cups milk
1 tsp salt
1 cup grated white cheddar cheese
1 tbsp flour
1 pinch cayenne pepper, to taste
0.13 tsp nutmeg

How to prepare

Cook broccoli for 5 minutes in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Melt butter and cook for 1 minute.
Add 2 tbsp of flour and whisk for 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in milk and salt until smooth and boiling.
Add broccoli and grated cheese, and continue to whisk.
Boil the mixture.
Season with cayenne pepper and nutmeg if desired.

Variations

Consider adding diced cooked chicken, ham, or bacon for extra protein. For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and cheese, and substitute the butter with olive oil.
For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and cheese, and substitute the butter with olive oil. Adding other vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, can create a more robust and hearty soup. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce before serving.
Consider these variations to tailor the soup to your taste:
Add cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein.
Use vegetable broth instead of milk for a dairy-free version.
Incorporate other vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, for added flavor and nutrition.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk and cheese, and substitute butter with olive oil.
Spicy Version: Add more cayenne pepper or include diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Chunky Version: Reserve some of the cooked broccoli to add in after blending for a chunkier texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your 5-minute Broccoli Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:

- Use high-quality, frozen chopped broccoli for the best texture and flavor.

- Constant whisking is key to a smooth soup without lumps.

- Grate your own cheese for a smoother melt, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.

- Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less milk, according to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this broccoli soup hot, garnished with extra grated cheese, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor and presentation. A side of crusty bread or a light salad complements the soup well.

Cooking Techniques

For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until it reaches your desired consistency. For a thicker soup, allow it to simmer and reduce after blending.

Ingredient Substitutions

Broccoli: Fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen; just increase the cooking time slightly.

- Milk: Any type of milk, including non-dairy alternatives, can be used.

- Flour: For a gluten-free version, substitute with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for an impressive presentation. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for a touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

This broccoli soup pairs beautifully with a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Chardonnay. The acidity and freshness of the wine complement the creamy richness of the soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a little milk if the soup has thickened too much. Avoid boiling to prevent separation.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this broccoli soup contains approximately 200 calories, making it a satisfying yet light option for a meal or appetizer.

Carbohydrates

A serving of this broccoli soup contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the milk and flour, which provide the body with energy.

Fats

This recipe contains about 12 grams of fat per serving, with the main sources being butter and cheese. These fats contribute to the creamy texture and rich flavor of the soup.

Proteins

Each serving of broccoli soup offers around 10 grams of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues. The protein in this recipe comes from the milk and cheese.

Vitamins and minerals

Broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin K, iron, and potassium. This soup is an excellent way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of broccoli in a delicious and comforting form.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk, butter, cheese) and gluten (flour), which are common allergens. Individuals with allergies or intolerances to these ingredients should take caution.

Summary

Overall, this 5-minute Broccoli Soup is a nutritious option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a comforting and healthy choice for any meal.

Summary

This 5-minute Broccoli Soup recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious and nutritious meals don't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With simple ingredients and a few cooking tips, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of soup that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're in a rush or simply looking for a healthy meal option, this broccoli soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for 5-minute Broccoli Soup. It was a chilly autumn day, and I had just returned from a long walk in the park. As I entered my cozy kitchen, the aroma of simmering vegetables filled the air, and I knew that my dear friend Mrs. Jenkins was visiting.

Mrs. Jenkins was a master in the kitchen, with a knack for creating delicious and comforting dishes with just a few simple ingredients. On that particular day, she had brought over a bag of fresh broccoli from her garden, along with a handwritten recipe for a quick and easy broccoli soup.

I watched intently as she chopped the broccoli into small florets and sautéed them in a pot with some butter and onions. The kitchen was filled with the sound of sizzling vegetables, and the rich, earthy smell of broccoli wafted through the air.

As Mrs. Jenkins added some vegetable broth and a splash of cream to the pot, she explained to me that this recipe was one of her favorites because it was so quick and easy to make. In just five minutes, she said, we would have a steaming bowl of creamy broccoli soup ready to enjoy.

I marveled at how effortlessly Mrs. Jenkins moved around the kitchen, adding a pinch of salt here, a dash of pepper there, tasting and adjusting the seasonings until the soup was just right. She ladled the soup into bowls, garnishing each one with a sprinkle of grated cheddar cheese and a handful of croutons.

We sat down at the kitchen table, steam rising from our bowls of soup, and took our first spoonfuls. The soup was rich and creamy, with a velvety texture that coated my tongue. The flavor of the broccoli was bright and fresh, balanced by the richness of the cream and the sharpness of the cheddar cheese.

As I savored each spoonful, Mrs. Jenkins told me the story of how she had first learned to make this soup. She had been a young bride, just starting out in her own kitchen, and she had stumbled upon the recipe in an old cookbook that had belonged to her grandmother.

Over the years, Mrs. Jenkins had adapted and perfected the recipe, adding her own twist with the addition of cream and cheese. It had become a staple in her kitchen, a go-to dish for chilly days when she needed a quick and comforting meal.

After finishing our bowls of soup, Mrs. Jenkins handed me a copy of the recipe, written out in her neat, looping script. She told me that she wanted me to have it, so that I could enjoy this delicious soup whenever I wanted.

I thanked her profusely, feeling grateful for her friendship and her generosity in sharing her culinary secrets with me. As she gathered her things to leave, I promised myself that I would make this soup often, savoring the memories of that chilly autumn day and the warmth of Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen.

And so, whenever I find myself craving a quick and comforting meal, I turn to that recipe for 5-minute Broccoli Soup, remembering the day that Mrs. Jenkins first shared it with me and feeling grateful for the bond that food has created between us.