Cream of Broccoli (Print version)

A velvety blend of fresh broccoli and aromatic vegetables, finished with cream for rich flavor in 40 minutes.

# Required ingredients:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 large head broccoli (about 18 oz), chopped into florets
02 - 1 medium onion, diced
03 - 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Liquids

05 - 4 cups vegetable broth
06 - 1/2 cup heavy cream, plus extra for garnish optional

→ Fats and Seasonings

07 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
08 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
10 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
11 - Pinch of ground nutmeg optional

→ Garnish

12 - Fresh chives, finely chopped
13 - Croutons

# How to make it:

01 - Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and garlic. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
02 - Add the chopped broccoli florets and stir to combine. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
03 - Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until the broccoli is very tender.
04 - Remove from heat. Using an immersion blender or working in batches with a countertop blender, blend the soup until completely smooth.
05 - Stir in the heavy cream and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently reheat over low heat if needed—do not boil after adding cream.
06 - Ladle into bowls. Garnish with extra cream, chives, or croutons as desired. Serve hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It feels like a warm hug on a cold afternoon because of that hidden dash of nutmeg.
  • The texture is so velvety that nobody will guess it started as humble produce.
02 -
  • Do not let the soup reach a rolling boil once the cream is added or the texture might break.
  • Peeling the broccoli stems is a game changer for achieving a perfectly smooth consistency.
03 -
  • Add a small diced potato to the pot if you want an even thicker soup without using extra cream.
  • Always zest a little lemon over the top just before serving to brighten the earthy flavors.
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