Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and creamy delight that warms the soul. This vegan version of a classic favorite is not only healthier but also packed with flavor. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup caters to various occasions, from cozy family gatherings to quick weeknight meals. With its rich texture and the delightful combination of broccoli and vegan cheddar, this recipe stands out as a nourishing choice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days.
- Flavor Packed: The blend of onions, garlic, and cheese creates a savory taste that will please even picky eaters.
- Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome veggies and plant-based milk, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to add in extra vegetables or spices to tailor the soup to your taste.
Tools and Preparation
To make Broccoli Cheddar Soup efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Below are some key items you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- High-speed blender
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Perfect for cooking everything together while allowing ample space for stirring.
- High-speed blender: Ensures a creamy texture by easily blending part of the soup until smooth.
- Whisk: Helps incorporate ingredients smoothly, especially when creating the roux.
- Wooden spoon: A sturdy tool for mixing without scratching your pot.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
Vegetables
- 1 cup white onions (chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (finely diced)
- 3 heaping cups broccoli (finely chopped)
- 1 1/2 heaping cups julienned carrots
Base and Thickening Agents
- 1/4 cup vegan butter
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups rice milk (plain, unsweetened)
Cheese and Seasoning
- 1 cup vegan cheddar cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Melt the vegan butter in a large pot over medium heat until fully melted.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add the chopped onions and finely diced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Roux
Stir in the all-purpose flour. Mix well until fully incorporated, forming a roux that thickens the soup.
Step 4: Add Liquids
Whisk in the vegetable broth and rice milk gradually. Make sure the roux is completely blended into the mixture.
Step 5: Bring Mixture to a Boil
Increase heat slightly until the mixture begins to boil.
Step 6: Add Vegetables
Reduce heat back to medium. Stir in the chopped broccoli and julienned carrots. Cook for an additional 10 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Step 7: Incorporate Vegan Cheese
Add in your favorite vegan cheddar cheese (we recommend Follow Your Heart). Stir continuously until completely melted.
Step 8: Blend for Creaminess
Remove about one-quarter of the soup from the pot. Transfer it to your high-speed blender and blend until creamy. Return it back to the pot and stir well.
Step 9: Season to Taste
Finally, add salt and pepper according to your preference. Serve hot with croutons or crusty bread on the side for an extra touch!
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serving broccoli cheddar soup is an art that can elevate your dining experience. This creamy dish pairs well with various accompaniments, enhancing its flavor and creating a satisfying meal.
With Crusty Bread
- Fresh Baguette: A slice of warm baguette makes for perfect dipping.
- Garlic Bread: Adds a savory punch that complements the soup’s richness.
Topped with Croutons
- Homemade Croutons: Crunchy, toasted bread cubes add texture and flavor.
- Spiced Croutons: Seasoned with garlic or herbs for an extra kick.
With a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the soup’s creaminess.
- Mixed Greens Salad: Light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
In a Bread Bowl
- Sourdough Bread Bowl: Serve the soup in a hollowed-out sourdough loaf for an edible serving dish.
Accompanied by Sandwiches
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Classic pairing that never disappoints.
- Vegetable Wrap: A light option to enjoy alongside the hearty soup.
How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Perfecting broccoli cheddar soup comes down to technique and ingredient quality. Follow these tips for the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and carrots enhance flavor and nutrition.
- Adjust Consistency: For thicker soup, blend more of it; for thinner, add more broth.
- Choose Quality Cheese: Using high-quality vegan cheddar ensures better melting and taste.
- Season Well: Taste as you go; salt and pepper can elevate the flavors significantly.
- Add Nutritional Yeast: For added depth of flavor, consider mixing in some nutritional yeast before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Pairing your broccoli cheddar soup with side dishes can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some delightful options to consider.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these are perfect for dipping in soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a healthy complement.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with grains or beans add a hearty touch.
- Quinoa Salad: A light salad with quinoa, cucumbers, and lemon dressing enhances the meal’s freshness.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, they are great for scooping up soup.
- Cheese Quesadillas: Crispy tortillas filled with cheese make for a delightful pairing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the roux: Failing to create a roux with the flour and vegan butter can lead to a soupy texture. Make sure to cook it until fully incorporated.
- Using low-quality broth: The flavor of your soup relies heavily on the broth. Always opt for high-quality vegetable broth for the best taste.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking broccoli and carrots too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender yet crisp veggies by following the suggested cooking time.
- Not blending enough: To achieve that creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup thoroughly. This step is essential for a luxurious mouthfeel.
- Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning is a common mistake. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper before serving to enhance flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring often until heated through.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy dish made with fresh broccoli, carrots, and vegan cheddar cheese, perfect for warming up on chilly days.
How can I make my Broccoli Cheddar Soup thicker?
To thicken your soup, blend a portion of it and stir it back in. You can also add more flour when making your roux.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While vegan cheddar works best, you can experiment with other plant-based cheeses for unique flavors in your Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping.
How do I customize my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper, or throw in other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach for extra nutrition!
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for a healthy option, this vegan version satisfies all. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy every warm bowlful!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of Broccoli Cheddar Soup—a comforting vegan delight that warms both heart and soul. This wholesome recipe showcases the perfect blend of fresh broccoli, sweet carrots, and rich vegan cheddar cheese, ensuring each spoonful is bursting with flavor. Ideal for a cozy family dinner or a quick weekday meal, this soup not only satisfies but also nourishes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup white onions (chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (finely diced)
- 3 heaping cups broccoli (finely chopped)
- 1 ½ heaping cups julienned carrots
- ¼ cup vegan butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups rice milk (plain, unsweetened)
- 1 cup vegan cheddar cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt the vegan butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté onions and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in flour to create a roux; cook until fully incorporated.
- Gradually whisk in vegetable broth and rice milk until smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then add chopped broccoli and carrots; simmer for 10 minutes until tender.
- Incorporate vegan cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
- Blend a portion of the soup for added creaminess, then return it to the pot.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
