Broccoli Cheddar Soup
The Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, delicious dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This vegan version captures the rich flavors you love from traditional recipes while being healthier and plant-based. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup is not only satisfying but also easy to make. Enjoy it on cold days or serve it at gatherings; it’s sure to impress everyone!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with nutritious ingredients like broccoli and carrots, this soup is both filling and good for you.
- Creamy Texture: The blend of rice milk and vegan cheddar cheese gives this soup a rich, creamy consistency without the dairy.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a stand-alone dish or pair it with crusty bread or croutons for added texture.
- Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy flavor and vibrant color, this broccoli cheddar soup is a hit with kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having the right equipment will help you prepare this delightful soup effortlessly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- High-speed blender
- Whisk
- Chopping board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking your soup evenly and allowing enough space for all the ingredients.
- High-speed blender: Needed to achieve that creamy texture by blending part of the soup smoothly.
- Whisk: Helps incorporate flour into the butter properly, creating a lump-free roux.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 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: Melt the Butter
Melt the vegan butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
- Stir in the chopped onions and finely diced garlic.
- Cook for about 5–7 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Roux
- Add the all-purpose flour.
- Mix well until the flour is fully incorporated with the butter, forming a roux.
Step 4: Combine Liquids
Whisk in the vegetable broth and rice milk gradually. Ensure there are no lumps from the roux.
Step 5: Bring to a Boil
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 6: Add Vegetables
Reduce heat back to medium and add the finely chopped broccoli and julienned carrots.
Step 7: Cook Until Tender
Cook for approximately 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Step 8: Incorporate Vegan Cheese
Stir in your favorite vegan cheddar cheese until melted completely into the soup.
Step 9: Blend for Creaminess
Remove about 1/4 of the soup from the pot and place it in a high-speed blender. Blend until smooth, then return it back to the pot.
Step 10: Season and Serve
Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with croutons or bread on the side for an extra crunch!
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether for a casual lunch or a cozy dinner, here are some serving suggestions that enhance the experience.
With Croutons
- Add crispy croutons on top for a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy texture of the soup.
With Bread
- Serve with warm, crusty bread or a baguette. This pairing is perfect for dipping and adds heartiness to your meal.
Topped with Avocado
- Slices of ripe avocado can bring a creamy richness and additional nutrition to your bowl of soup.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and flavor. This simple addition makes the dish look more appealing.
With Vegan Sour Cream
- A dollop of vegan sour cream creates a tangy contrast that elevates the overall taste of the soup.
In a Bread Bowl
- For an indulgent treat, serve your broccoli cheddar soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. It’s both functional and delicious!
How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To achieve the best Broccoli Cheddar Soup, follow these tips for an even richer and creamier result.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and carrots enhance the flavor and texture, making your soup more vibrant.
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Cook Slowly: Taking your time while cooking helps meld flavors together, creating a deeper taste profile in your soup.
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Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup gives it a creamy consistency without needing heavy cream, while still keeping some chunky bits for texture.
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Experiment with Spices: Adding spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile and add an unexpected kick.
Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Broccoli Cheddar Soup enhances your meal and adds variety. Here are some excellent options to consider:
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Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens provides freshness that complements the richness of the soup.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic pairing brings together two comfort foods; opt for vegan cheese to keep it plant-based!
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Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice add substance and flavor alongside your soup.
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Vegetable Spring Rolls: Light and crispy spring rolls make for a refreshing contrast against the creamy soup.
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Potato Wedges: Baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside—perfect for dipping!
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Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad brings added nutrition while balancing out the meal’s richness.
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Roasted Cauliflower: The nutty flavor of roasted cauliflower pairs beautifully with broccoli cheddar, enhancing veggie goodness.
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Pita Chips: Crunchy pita chips offer a fun way to enjoy your soup while adding extra texture!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes to keep in mind for the best results.
- Skipping the roux: Not making a roux can lead to a thin soup. Mixing flour with butter creates a thick base, enhancing the texture.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking broccoli and carrots for too long makes them mushy. Aim for 10 minutes of cooking for a tender yet crisp bite.
- Using unsweetened rice milk: Sweetened rice milk alters the soup’s flavor. Always opt for plain, unsweetened rice milk for a savory taste.
- Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season your soup can result in blandness. Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
- Not blending enough: Leaving too many chunks can affect creaminess. Blend part of the soup until smooth to achieve that creamy texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the soup to cool before sealing.
Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Broccoli Cheddar Soup that might help you out!
Can I use fresh broccoli?
Yes, fresh broccoli is preferred for its flavor and texture. Just chop it finely!
How can I make this Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour to thicken your soup.
What kind of vegan cheddar should I use?
Look for brands like Follow Your Heart or Daiya. They melt well and enhance flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add peas or cauliflower for extra nutrition and taste.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also versatile! You can customize it with different veggies or spices based on your preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy a healthy version of this classic favorite!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of this creamy vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup, a delightful plant-based twist on a classic favorite. Rich with flavors, this easy-to-make recipe offers a satisfying bowl of goodness perfect for chilly days or casual gatherings. Featuring fresh broccoli and carrots blended with creamy rice milk and vegan cheddar, each spoonful is packed with nutrition and taste that both kids and adults will love.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Melt vegan butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté chopped onions and garlic for 5–7 minutes until soft.
- Stir in all-purpose flour to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in vegetable broth and rice milk, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Bring to a boil then reduce heat; add broccoli and carrots.
- Cook for about 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in vegan cheddar cheese until melted.
- Blend part of the soup for creaminess while leaving some chunky bits.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
