Broccoli Cheese Soup

Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe - Creamy and Delicious from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Broccoli Cheese Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that has become a beloved classic in many households. This creamy soup combines the nutritional goodness of broccoli with the rich, savory flavors of cheese and ham, making it a perfect meal for any time of the year. Whether you're looking for a warm dish to cozy up with in the winter or a light but fulfilling meal for a summer evening, Broccoli Cheese Soup is sure to satisfy.

History

The origins of Broccoli Cheese Soup can be traced back to the American Midwest, where it gained popularity in the 1970s. It was a time when creamy, comforting soups became a staple in American cuisine, and the combination of broccoli and cheese was a natural fit. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, with various adaptations adding different ingredients to suit personal tastes. However, the core elements of broccoli, cheese, and a creamy base have remained constant, making it a timeless classic.

Ingredients

4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
0.5 cup finely diced onion
1 cup water
1 tbsp chicken bouillon
3 cup fresh broccoli florets
3 cup milk
1 cup chopped ham
salt and pepper
0.25 cup flour
1 cup diced velveeta

How to prepare

In a saucepan, combine the potatoes, onion, water, and chicken bouillon. Bring to a boil and cover. Let it boil for 10 minutes.
Next, add the broccoli to the saucepan, cover it again, and let it boil for another 10 minutes.
Pour 2.5 cups of milk into the saucepan, along with the ham, salt, and pepper. Bring it to a low boil.
In a container with a tight-fitting lid, combine the remaining milk and flour. Shake well to combine, then add it to the soup.
Continue cooking and stirring until the soup thickens and becomes bubbly.
Finally, add the Velveeta cheese and stir until it melts completely.

Variations

There are many ways to vary this recipe to suit your taste or dietary requirements:
Use different types of cheese for a change in flavor.
Add carrots or celery for extra vegetables.
For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable bouillon.

References

↑ For the ham if I have leftover good ham, I dice it and use it, or if I don't have any leftovers, I just use sliced ham from the deli counter and mince it up.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

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

- Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture. Frozen broccoli can also be used, but it may not be as crisp.

- Gradually add the flour-milk mixture to avoid lumps in your soup.

- Keep the heat on low when adding the cheese to prevent it from separating or becoming grainy.

- For a smoother soup, you can blend part of the soup before adding the cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Broccoli Cheese Soup can be served as a main dish or as a starter. It pairs well with crusty bread, croutons, or a light salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

This soup benefits from slow cooking to allow the flavors to meld together. However, it can also be made in a pressure cooker or slow cooker for convenience.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour as a thickener.

- Plant-based milk and cheese can be used for a vegan version.

- Turkey ham can be used as a lower-fat alternative to regular ham.

Make Ahead Tips

Broccoli Cheese Soup can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for an impressive presentation. Garnish with extra cheese, fresh herbs, or crumbled bacon for added flavor and visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

This soup pairs beautifully with a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied beer like a Pilsner.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little milk if the soup has thickened too much. Freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A typical serving of Broccoli Cheese Soup contains approximately 250-300 calories. This makes it a relatively light meal option, especially if served as a starter or part of a larger meal.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Broccoli Cheese Soup contains approximately 20-25 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the potatoes and flour, which provide the soup with its thick, hearty texture.

Fats

This soup is relatively high in fats, primarily due to the Velveeta cheese and milk. A serving can contain between 10-15 grams of fat. However, using low-fat milk or cheese alternatives can reduce the fat content.

Proteins

Each serving of Broccoli Cheese Soup provides a good amount of protein, around 15-20 grams, thanks to the addition of ham and cheese. This makes the soup a fulfilling meal that can help keep you satisfied for longer.

Vitamins and minerals

Broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin K, iron, and potassium. These nutrients are preserved even when the broccoli is cooked into the soup, making it a nutritious option.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include dairy (milk, cheese) and gluten (from the flour). Individuals with allergies or intolerances to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Broccoli Cheese Soup is a comforting, nutritious meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It can be easily modified to suit dietary needs and preferences.

Summary

Broccoli Cheese Soup is a versatile, comforting dish that combines the nutritional benefits of broccoli with the rich flavors of cheese and ham. With options for customization and make-ahead convenience, it's a perfect recipe for any home cook looking to add a hearty and delicious soup to their repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Broccoli Cheese Soup. It was a chilly autumn day, with the leaves falling gently from the trees and a crisp breeze in the air. I had just finished a long day of work at the local market where I sold fresh produce and herbs. As I walked home, the thought of a warm and comforting soup filled my mind.

I decided to stop by my dear friend Martha's house, as she was known for her delicious and hearty soups. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of simmering vegetables and herbs. Martha welcomed me with a warm smile and a hug, inviting me into her cozy kitchen.

As we sat at her kitchen table, sipping on herbal tea, Martha began to tell me all about her famous Broccoli Cheese Soup. She explained how she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I was captivated by her storytelling and the way her eyes lit up as she talked about the soup.

Martha generously shared the recipe with me, detailing each step and ingredient with precision. She showed me how to sauté the onions and garlic until they were fragrant, then add in the fresh broccoli and chicken broth. She added a secret blend of herbs and spices, including a pinch of nutmeg, which she claimed was the key to making the soup truly special.

As the soup simmered on the stove, Martha grated a generous amount of sharp cheddar cheese and added it to the pot, stirring until it melted into a creamy and decadent mixture. The smell that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.

When the soup was finally ready, Martha ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a sprinkle of extra cheese and a drizzle of cream. We sat at the table, savoring each spoonful of the rich and velvety soup. The flavors were perfect – the broccoli was tender, the cheese was sharp and creamy, and the spices added a depth of warmth and complexity.

I knew in that moment that I had to add this recipe to my collection. Martha graciously wrote it down for me on a piece of paper, and I tucked it away in my recipe box with a sense of excitement and anticipation. From that day on, Broccoli Cheese Soup became a staple in my kitchen, bringing warmth and comfort to my family and friends on countless occasions.

Over the years, I have made this soup for countless gatherings and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I have tweaked and perfected it to suit my own tastes, adding a touch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat, or swapping out the cheddar for a creamy blue cheese for a more intense flavor.

But no matter how many variations I try, the original recipe from Martha will always hold a special place in my heart. It reminds me of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish both body and soul. And every time I make a pot of Broccoli Cheese Soup, I am transported back to that autumn day in Martha's kitchen, where I first discovered the magic of this comforting and delicious recipe.