Ingredients
Method
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Be careful not to brown the garlic.
- Cook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Blend until smooth.
- Add Cream: Return the soup to the pot, then stir in the heavy cream. Let the soup simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes to thicken and incorporate the cream. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to taste.
- Final Touches: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- Broccoli Freshness: For the best flavor and vibrant color, always use fresh broccoli. If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain it to avoid excess water in the soup.
- Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream (like coconut or almond cream). For an ultra-smooth texture, you can even add a splash of milk.
- Broth Options: Low-sodium vegetable broth works best to allow the natural flavors of the broccoli to shine. You can also use chicken broth if you’re not aiming for a vegetarian soup.
- Add Spice: For a kick of flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg, which pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the soup.
- Storage: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the soup creamy when reheating, heat gently on low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Freezing Tip: This soup freezes well, but for the creamiest result, try to freeze it without adding the cream. Once you reheat it, you can add the cream and re-blend for the smoothest texture. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.