Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. This vegan version is not only healthier but also captures the rich, creamy essence of traditional broccoli cheddar soup. Perfect for cozy dinners or quick lunches, this dish will satisfy your cravings while being kind to your health. With its vibrant colors and hearty texture, it’s a standout choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of broccoli, carrots, and vegan cheddar creates a rich taste that everyone will enjoy.
- Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s an easy meal for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and dairy-free options, this soup is a wholesome choice for the whole family.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it alone or pair it with crusty bread or croutons for a complete meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup is sure to impress.
Tools and Preparation
To make Broccoli Cheddar Soup successfully, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help you prepare each ingredient efficiently and ensure that everything comes together smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- High-speed blender
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly and accommodating all the ingredients without spilling.
- High-speed blender: Ensures the soup achieves a creamy texture by blending part of it to perfection.
- Chef’s knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient, saving you time in preparation.
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!
Vegetables
- 1 cup white onions (chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (finely diced)
- 3 heaping cups broccoli (finely chopped)
- 1 1/2 heaping cups julienned carrots
Liquids and Fats
- 1/4 cup vegan butter
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups rice milk (plain, unsweetened)
Thickener and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 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. Allow it to fully liquefy before moving on.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add the chopped onions and finely diced garlic to the pot. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Roux
Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour while stirring constantly. Mix well until the flour is fully incorporated into the butter mixture, forming a roux.
Step 4: Add Liquids
Whisk in the vegetable broth and plain rice milk gradually until there are no lumps of roux remaining. Continue mixing until well combined.
Step 5: Bring to a Boil
Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Add Vegetables
Once boiling, lower the heat back to medium. Add in the finely chopped broccoli and julienned carrots. Cook for about 10 minutes until tender.
Step 7: Stir in Vegan Cheese
Add in your vegan cheddar cheese (we love Follow Your Heart) and stir continuously until it has completely melted into the soup.
Step 8: Blend for Creaminess
Remove about one-quarter of the soup from the pot into a high-speed blender. Blend until creamy before adding it back into the pot. Stir well to combine.
Step 9: Season and Serve
Finally, add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Serve hot, optionally garnished with croutons or bread on the side. Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup!
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Broccoli cheddar soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty meal or an appetizer, these suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
With Tasty Croutons
- Add crispy croutons on top for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture of the soup.
With Fresh Bread
- Serve alongside warm, crusty bread. A sourdough or whole grain loaf pairs wonderfully with this comforting soup.
As a Lunch Pairing
- Enjoy broccoli cheddar soup as a light lunch option. It pairs well with a simple side salad or sandwich for a balanced meal.
In a Bread Bowl
- For a fun twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes for an impressive presentation.
With Vegan Cheese Sprinkles
- Top with additional vegan cheddar cheese shreds before serving. This adds extra cheesiness and visual appeal.
With Herbs and Spices
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness and color. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can also enhance the flavor profile.
How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To ensure your broccoli cheddar soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality vegan cheese will elevate the flavors significantly.
- Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or blend more of the mixture.
- Season properly: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper levels to suit your preference for optimal flavor.
- Blend carefully: When blending part of the soup, be cautious not to over-blend; you want some texture remaining.
- Store correctly: To maintain freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Reheat gently: When reheating, do so on low heat to avoid curdling any dairy alternatives used in the recipe.
Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Pairing side dishes with your broccoli cheddar soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
- Vegetable Wraps: Light vegetable wraps filled with crisp veggies offer crunch and nutrients that complement the soup nicely.
- Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with quinoa, beans, or rice provide hearty protein alongside your soup.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side with every spoonful of soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring depth to your meal while providing added nutrition.
- Garlic Bread: Toasty garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich flavors of broccoli cheddar soup, enhancing each bite.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers a nutritious complement to the creamy dish.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the soup and adds a sweet finish to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some to watch out for:
- Ignoring the Roux – The roux is essential for thickening your soup. Make sure to cook the flour with the butter until it’s well-combined before adding liquids.
- Overcooking Vegetables – Cooking broccoli and carrots too long can lead to mushy veggies. Add them later in the cooking process for better texture.
- Skipping the Blending Step – Blending part of the soup adds creaminess. Don’t skip this step if you want that smooth texture.
- Using Unsweetened Rice Milk – Sweetened rice milk can alter the flavor of your soup. Always use plain, unsweetened rice milk for this recipe.
- Neglecting Seasoning – Salt and pepper enhance flavors. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings as needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.
Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Freeze in individual portions or a large container for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.
Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot, about 3-4 minutes total.
- Stovetop – Warm on medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated, around 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
How do I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup thicker?
To thicken your soup, add more flour when making the roux or blend more of the soup after cooking.
Can I use fresh broccoli for Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes! Fresh broccoli works perfectly and adds great flavor. Just ensure it’s chopped into small pieces for even cooking.
Is Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?
This recipe is vegan since it uses plant-based butter and cheese alternatives.
What can I serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Pair it with crusty bread or croutons for a hearty meal that complements its creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. It’s not only comforting but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with various vegetables or spices. Give this healthy version a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends!
Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, reimagined in a healthier, vegan version that does not compromise on taste. This creamy and flavorful soup combines tender broccoli and carrots with rich vegan cheddar cheese to create a satisfying meal perfect for cozy dinners or quick lunches. With just 30 minutes from prep to table, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Enjoy it alone or pair it with crusty bread or croutons for a complete experience. Bright in color and comforting in texture, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup white onions (chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (finely diced)
- 3 heaping cups broccoli (finely chopped)
- 1 1/2 heaping cups julienned carrots
- 1/4 cup vegan butter
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups rice milk (plain, unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup vegan cheddar cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt the vegan butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté the onions and garlic until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the flour to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in vegetable broth and rice milk until smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and add broccoli and carrots. Cook for about 10 minutes or until tender.
- Stir in the vegan cheddar cheese until melted.
- Blend part of the soup for creaminess, then return it to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
