Broccoli Cheese Soup

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup to bring comfort and coziness to your day. This rich and creamy soup combines the earthy goodness of broccoli with the savory embrace of sharp cheddar cheese. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a pot of warmth for your soul.

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup butter
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups good-quality low sodium chicken stock
• 3 cups half-and-half (or evaporated milk or regular milk)
• 3/4 teaspoon salt, or more to your taste
• 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper, or more to your taste
• 1 teaspoon vegetable stock powder (or chicken bouillon powder)
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 pound (500 grams) broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
• 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
• 2 cups low-fat sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Saute the onion until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Whisk in the flour and cook until golden brown.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and slowly pour in the chicken stock and half-and-half, stirring well to combine and dissolve the flour into the liquid. Season with salt, pepper, stock powder, mustard powder, and garlic powder. Mix well and allow it to cook and thicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add in the broccoli and carrots, gently simmering for another 20 minutes until the broccoli is completely tender.
4. Mix in the cheese and stir until just combined. Taste test and adjust salt and/or pepper if desired.
5. Serve this velvety delight with warm bread rolls, allowing the flavors to embrace your palate.

Pro Tips:

• For an extra touch of indulgence, top each bowl with a sprinkle of additional shredded cheddar or a dollop of sour cream.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties for a personalized twist.

Delicious, creamy, and soul-soothing, this Broccoli Cheese Soup is a delightful creation that brings warmth to your table. Enjoy the hearty flavors and share the comfort with loved ones.