Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. This vegan version captures the essence of the traditional favorite, making it perfect for cozy dinners or quick lunches. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or serving it at a gathering, this soup offers a creamy texture and rich flavor that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Twist: This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a lighter, plant-based alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute lunch options.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it alone, pair with crusty bread, or enjoy with croutons for added crunch.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will delight in this creamy soup, making it a hit at family dinners.
• Easy Customization: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• High-speed blender
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A sturdy pot is essential for cooking the soup evenly without burning.
• High-speed blender: This tool helps achieve that creamy texture by blending part of the soup smoothly.
• Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that the roux is well mixed with the liquids, preventing clumps.

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

• 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: Cook Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onions and finely diced garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Create the Roux

Add the all-purpose flour into the pot. Mix well until fully incorporated, forming a roux.

Step 4: Add Liquids

Whisk in vegetable broth and rice milk gradually until smooth. Ensure the roux is completely mixed in.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil

Increase heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

Reduce heat back to medium. Stir in finely chopped broccoli and julienned carrots. Cook for about 10 minutes until tender.

Step 7: Incorporate Vegan Cheese

Add your favorite vegan cheddar cheese (we recommend Follow Your Heart) into the pot. Stir until melted thoroughly.

Step 8: Blend for Creaminess

Remove about one-fourth of the soup into a high-speed blender. Blend until creamy then return to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Step 9: Final Seasoning

Season your Broccoli Cheddar Soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, optionally garnished with croutons or crusty bread.

Enjoy your delightful bowl of homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli cheddar soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re having it for lunch or dinner, there are many serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Croutons

• Add crunchy croutons on top for extra texture and flavor.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives to brighten the soup.

With Bread

• Serve with a warm, crusty bread or a soft roll for dipping.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl.

With Salad

• Pair with a light salad on the side for a balanced meal.

With Vegan Cheese

• Sprinkle additional vegan cheese on top before serving for an extra cheesy goodness.

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How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creating the perfect broccoli cheddar soup takes attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh broccoli – Fresh broccoli will give your soup better flavor and texture compared to frozen.
• Adjust thickness – If you prefer a thicker soup, add more flour when making the roux or blend in more of the soup.
• Experiment with spices – Add garlic powder, onion powder, or even nutmeg for deeper flavor profiles.
• Choose quality vegan cheese – Opt for creamier vegan cheese brands like Follow Your Heart for better melting properties.
• Don’t rush cooking – Allowing the vegetables to soften properly enhances the overall taste of your soup.
• Taste as you go – Adjust salt and pepper throughout cooking to find your desired flavor balance.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

When enjoying broccoli cheddar soup, side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that pair well with this creamy delight.

1. Garlic Bread – A classic accompaniment that’s perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caesar Salad – A light salad adds freshness and complements the rich flavors of the soup.
3. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful and nutritious, stuffed peppers make a hearty side dish.
4. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed quinoa salad provides a wholesome balance.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies bring additional nutrients and textures to your meal.
6. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread is delicious with the savory notes of broccoli cheddar soup.
7. Veggie Wraps – Fresh veggie wraps can offer crunch and variety alongside your warm bowl of soup.
8. Potato Chips – For added crunch, serve with crispy potato chips on the side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Ignoring the roux: Failing to properly incorporate the flour into the butter can lead to a gritty texture. Mix until fully combined.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Not all vegetables or vegan cheese are created equal. Choose fresh broccoli and a good brand of vegan cheddar for best results.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking broccoli and carrots for too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender-crisp texture by following the cooking times in the recipe.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Under-seasoning your soup can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Not blending enough: Leaving large chunks in the soup can affect the creamy texture. Make sure to blend at least a portion of the soup for creaminess.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Broccoli Cheddar Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil, until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, flavorful soup made with fresh broccoli and melted cheddar cheese. This vegan version offers all the comfort without dairy!

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later enjoyment.

How do I customize my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

You can add different vegetables like cauliflower or spinach, or even spice it up with red pepper flakes for added flavor.

Is this Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I use regular milk instead of rice milk?

Absolutely! You can substitute rice milk with any non-dairy milk or even regular cow’s milk if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can tweak it with your favorite veggies or spices to make it uniquely yours. We encourage you to give this delightful vegan twist on a classic recipe a try!