Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and creamy delight that captures the rich flavors of the classic dish while offering a healthier, vegan twist. Perfect for cozy dinners or lunch breaks, this soup is not only satisfying but also easy to make. The blend of broccoli, carrots, and vegan cheddar creates a deliciously rich experience that everyone will love, regardless of dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Creamy Texture: Blending part of the soup gives it a luxuriously creamy consistency without any dairy.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and made with plant-based ingredients, it’s both nutritious and delicious.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main meal or a side dish; it pairs wonderfully with bread or croutons.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors and cheesy goodness make this soup appealing to kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Below are the necessary items you’ll need for making Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• High-speed blender
• Whisk
• Chopping knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking and combining all ingredients without spilling.
• High-speed blender: Essential for achieving that creamy texture by blending part of the soup seamlessly.
• Whisk: Helps in mixing ingredients evenly, especially when creating the roux.

Ingredients

Panera’s broccoli cheddar soup was a family favorite before going vegan. We made a much healthier yet just as delicious (maybe even better!) vegan version!

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 Flavoring

• 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 fully liquefied.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

• Add chopped onions and diced garlic to the pot.
• Cook for about 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Roux

• Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour while stirring continuously.
• Mix well until fully incorporated into the onion-garlic mixture.

Step 4: Add Liquids

Whisk in the vegetable broth and rice milk gradually:
Continue whisking until there are no lumps.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat while stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

Once boiling:
Reduce heat back to medium.
Stir in finely chopped broccoli and julienned carrots.
Cook for about 10 minutes until veggies are tender.

Step 7: Incorporate Vegan Cheese

Add your choice of vegan cheddar cheese:
Stir well until completely melted into the soup.

Step 8: Blend for Creaminess

Remove about one-quarter of the soup:
Place it into your high-speed blender.
Blend until smooth, then return it to the pot. Mix thoroughly.

Step 9: Season and Serve

Finally:
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot with croutons or fresh bread on the side. Enjoy!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving broccoli cheddar soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this creamy and comforting dish.

With Croutons

• Crunchy croutons add texture and flavor. Use store-bought or homemade for an extra touch.

With Fresh Bread

• A warm, crusty loaf complements the soup perfectly. Try sourdough or whole grain for a hearty pairing.

Over Rice

• Pour the soup over a bed of rice for a filling and satisfying meal. Brown rice adds nuttiness, while white rice keeps it classic.

Topped with Chives

• Finely chopped chives enhance the flavor profile. Their mild onion taste pairs well with the richness of the soup.

With Salad

• A light salad on the side balances the richness of broccoli cheddar soup. Consider a simple green salad with a vinaigrette.

In a Bread Bowl

• Serve your broccoli cheddar soup in a bread bowl for a fun and interactive dining experience!

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How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creating the perfect broccoli cheddar soup is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and carrots provide vibrant flavors. They can greatly enhance the taste and nutrition of your soup.

• Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or blend more of it. You can control the texture to suit your preference.

• Experiment with spices: Add nutmeg or paprika for an unexpected twist. These spices can elevate the overall flavor profile of your dish.

• Choose quality cheese: Opt for high-quality vegan cheddar cheese for better melting properties. This choice will improve both texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with broccoli cheddar soup can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup, making each bite even more enjoyable.

2. Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the heaviness of the soup beautifully.

3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or veggies make a hearty side that complements the flavors of broccoli cheddar soup well.

4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables adds depth and additional nutrients to your meal while keeping it light and healthy.

5. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A gooey grilled cheese sandwich is a nostalgic pairing that always hits the spot alongside this comforting soup.

6. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with herbs and veggies offers a nutritious contrast to the creaminess of the soup.

7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make an excellent snack alongside each bowl of creamy goodness.

8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse your palate between bites, adding a refreshing sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results.

• Skipping the Roux: Not making a roux can result in a soup that is too thin. Always cook the flour with butter to thicken your soup properly.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking broccoli and carrots for too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender crunch by following the cooking times closely.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well and could affect flavor. Invest in high-quality vegan cheddar for the best taste.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season the soup can lead to blandness. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
• Not Blending Enough: Skipping the blending step means missing out on a creamy texture. Blend part of the soup thoroughly for that perfect creaminess.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat, stirring until hot to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries you might have about Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

How do I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup creamier?

For a creamier texture, blend more of the soup before returning it to the pot.

What can I serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, croutons, or a fresh salad!

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh broccoli adds great flavor and texture to your soup.

Final Thoughts

This vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! You can customize it by adding different vegetables or spices. Give it a try for a cozy meal that satisfies cravings and warms your heart!