Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful and creamy dish that warms the soul and pleases the palate. This vegan version captures the rich flavors of traditional broccoli cheddar soup while being healthier and plant-based. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a comforting snack on chilly days. The blend of fresh broccoli, carrots, and creamy vegan cheddar makes this soup a standout choice for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
• Creamy Texture: The combination of blended soup with chunky vegetables creates a satisfying mouthfeel that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as an appetizer; it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or croutons.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables, this soup provides essential vitamins and minerals in every bowl.
• Customizable Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or spices to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Broccoli Cheddar Soup efficiently, gather your tools ahead of time. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• High-speed blender
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while allowing enough room for all ingredients to combine beautifully.
• High-speed blender: This tool helps create a creamy texture by blending part of the soup until smooth.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing ingredients without scratching your pots, ensuring everything is thoroughly combined.

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Ingredients

For this delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you will need:

• 1 cup white onions (chopped)
• 1 clove garlic (finely diced)
• 1/4 cup vegan butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 4 cups rice milk (plain, unsweetened)
• 3 heaping cups broccoli (finely chopped)
• 1 1/2 heaping cups julienned carrots
• 1 cup vegan cheddar cheese
• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onions, dice the garlic, and finely chop the broccoli. Julienning the carrots will add elegance to your dish.

Step 2: Create the Base

1. Melt the vegan butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and diced garlic, cooking them for about 5-7 minutes until they are translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Roux

1. Stir in the all-purpose flour, mixing well until fully incorporated to form a roux.
2. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth and rice milk, ensuring there are no lumps remaining.

Step 4: Bring to Boil

Bring your mixture to a boil, then reduce heat back to medium.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Add in the chopped broccoli and julienned carrots. Cook for about 10 minutes until they are tender but still vibrant.

Step 6: Incorporate Cheese

Stir in the vegan cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until fully melted into the soup.

Step 7: Blend for Creaminess

1. Remove about 1/4 of the soup from the pot and place it in a high-speed blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy before returning it to the pot.

Step 8: Season and Serve

Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with croutons or fresh bread if desired. Enjoy your hearty Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your soup experience and make it even more delightful.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread for dipping. The crunch complements the creamy texture perfectly.

Topped with Croutons

• Add a handful of homemade or store-bought croutons on top for an extra crunch. This simple addition enhances the overall flavor.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving. They add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Served in a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve your broccoli cheddar soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. It not only looks great but makes for an edible serving dish!

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• A light side salad can balance the richness of the soup. Consider mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette for brightness.

With Vegan Grilled Cheese

• Pair your soup with a vegan grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal. The melty cheese and crispy bread make it an unbeatable combination.

How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creating the perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup involves attention to detail and some cooking hacks. Here are tips to elevate your soup-making skills.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality vegan cheddar will enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.

• Make your roux carefully: Ensure you cook the flour enough with the butter to eliminate any raw taste, which will improve the soup’s overall flavor.

• Blend for creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, blend part of the soup until creamy, then mix back in. This adds depth without sacrificing heartiness.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving, and adjust salt and pepper as needed. A touch of acidity from lemon juice can also brighten flavors.

• Experiment with spices: Adding spices like nutmeg or smoked paprika can give your soup an unexpected twist that enhances its flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with Broccoli Cheddar Soup can make your meal more satisfying. Here are some great options that complement its rich flavors.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of delicious soup.

2. Veggie Sticks: Fresh carrot sticks, celery, or bell peppers add a crunchy contrast to creamy soup.

3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with veggies offers a nutrient boost alongside your comforting bowl of soup.

4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice and beans provide heartiness and color, making them an excellent companion.

5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs create a satisfying side that pairs well with any warm bowl.

6. Pita Chips: Crunchy pita chips bring added texture and are perfect for dipping into your flavorful broccoli cheddar soup.

7. Cauliflower Wings: Baked cauliflower wings tossed in buffalo sauce give an exciting twist while keeping things plant-based.

8. Mixed Green Salad: A side of mixed greens topped with nuts and seeds adds freshness and crunch to balance out the richness of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• One common mistake is not chopping the vegetables properly. Ensure that your broccoli and carrots are finely chopped for even cooking and better texture.
• Another mistake is overcooking the soup. Keep an eye on the cooking time, especially after adding the vegetables, to maintain their vibrant color and crunch.
• Many people forget to season adequately. Taste your soup as you cook and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a more flavorful dish.
• People often skip the step to blend part of the soup. Blending creates a creamy texture that enhances the overall experience, so don’t skip this important step!
• A mistake is using low-quality cheese. Opt for a good vegan cheddar that melts well, as it significantly affects the flavor and creaminess of the soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Allow soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• 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 until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat while stirring until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is vegan because it uses plant-based ingredients like vegetable broth, rice milk, and vegan cheddar cheese instead of dairy or meat products.

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?

Yes! To make this soup gluten-free, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

How can I customize my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

You can add different vegetables such as cauliflower or spinach. Additionally, try adding spices like cayenne pepper for extra warmth.

How do I thicken my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend more of the soup or add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) while simmering.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only rich and creamy but also healthy and adaptable. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for lunch or dinner!