Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting classic that brings warmth to any meal. This vegan version retains all the rich flavors of the original while being healthier and suitable for various occasions, from cozy family dinners to casual lunch gatherings. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of broccoli and vegan cheddar cheese creates a rich, savory flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup can be made in just 30 minutes.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a stand-alone meal or paired with bread or croutons for added texture.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables, this soup is nutritious without sacrificing taste.
• Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Below are some essential items you’ll need to create your delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking your soup evenly while providing enough space for all ingredients.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, especially when making the roux and incorporating liquids.
• High-speed blender: Crucial for achieving that creamy texture by blending part of the soup seamlessly.

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Ingredients

For our Broccoli Cheddar Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 1 cup white onions (chopped)
• 1 clove garlic (finely diced)
• 1/4 cup vegan butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

For the Soup

• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 4 cups rice milk (plain, unsweetened)
• 3 heaping cups broccoli (finely chopped)
• 1 1/2 heaping cups julienned carrots

For Flavor and Texture

• 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 it begins to foam.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

• Add chopped onions and diced garlic to the melted butter.
• Cook for 5–7 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.

Step 3: Create the Roux

• Stir in the flour gradually until it is fully incorporated into the mixture.
• Continue stirring to form a roux, which should be smooth and slightly golden.

Step 4: Incorporate Liquids

• Gradually whisk in vegetable broth and rice milk until well combined with the roux.
• Bring this mixture to a boil while stirring constantly.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Reduce heat back to medium. Add finely chopped broccoli and julienned carrots to the pot.
Cook for about 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Melt Cheese into Soup

Stir in vegan cheddar cheese until it completely melts into the soup, creating a creamy consistency.

Step 7: Blend for Creaminess

• Remove about 1/4 of the soup from the pot.
• Place it in a high-speed blender and blend until creamy.
• Return blended soup back into the pot and stir well.

Step 8: Season and Serve

Add salt and pepper according to taste. Serve hot, optionally garnished with croutons or crusty bread on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or looking for a comforting lunch, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Classic Pairings

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
• Garlic Breadsticks: These tasty sticks add an extra crunch and flavor.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic combo; the melty cheese pairs perfectly with the soup.

Toppings and Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh touch.
• Vegan Croutons: Add a crunchy texture with homemade or store-bought croutons.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy some heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top.

Creative Serving Ideas

• In a Bread Bowl: Hollow out a sourdough loaf and fill it with the soup for a fun presentation.
• As a Sauce: Use as a sauce over pasta or steamed vegetables for an upgraded dish.

How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creating the perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli enhances flavor and texture compared to frozen.
• Opt for Quality Cheese: Choose high-quality vegan cheddar cheese for better melting properties and taste.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more vegetable broth until you reach desired thickness.
• Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup adds creaminess without using dairy.
• Season Gradually: Taste and season with salt and pepper gradually to avoid over seasoning.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Broccoli Cheddar Soup can enhance the meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Simple Salad: A mixed green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balance.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini roasted until caramelized make excellent companions.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish seasoned with herbs provides nourishment alongside the soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Fill peppers with rice, beans, and spices for a hearty side option.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring sweetness that complements the savory soup.
6. Pita Chips and Hummus: Crunchy pita chips served with hummus create a satisfying snack before or alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the roux: Failing to properly create a roux can lead to a soup that is not creamy. Make sure to whisk the flour thoroughly with the butter before adding liquids.
• Using low-quality cheese: Not all vegan cheeses melt well. Choose high-quality vegan cheddar cheese for the best flavor and texture in your Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning your soup can make it bland. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking broccoli and carrots for too long can result in mushy veggies. Follow the recommended cooking times for optimal texture.
• Not blending enough: If you want a creamy consistency, ensure you blend enough of the soup. Blending only a small portion won’t achieve the desired creaminess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Broccoli Cheddar Soup made of?

Broccoli Cheddar Soup typically includes ingredients like chopped onions, garlic, vegetable broth, rice milk, broccoli, carrots, and vegan cheddar cheese.

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken your soup while keeping it gluten-free.

How can I customize my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. You can also adjust the spices according to your preference.

Is this Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?

Yes! This recipe uses plant-based ingredients, including vegan butter and vegan cheddar cheese, making it perfect for a vegan diet.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or spices. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try today!