Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting, creamy dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. This vegan version of the classic Panera favorite is not only healthier but also packed with flavor. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch, this soup is sure to please everyone, whether they are vegan or not. The delightful combination of fresh broccoli and rich, melted vegan cheddar makes it a standout on any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in just 30 minutes.
• Creamy Texture: Thanks to the blending step, this soup achieves a rich and creamy texture without using heavy dairy products.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables like broccoli and carrots, this soup is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it a healthy option for lunch or dinner.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread or croutons for added texture and flavor.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a great addition to family meals.

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Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• High-speed blender
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly without spills.
• High-speed blender: Ensures that part of the soup turns creamy while keeping some texture from the veggies.
• Whisk: Helps in smoothly combining ingredients without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 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)

For the Vegetables

• 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 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 5–7 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Roux

• Add the flour to the pot.
• Mix well until fully incorporated, creating a roux.

Step 4: Add Liquids

Whisk in the vegetable broth and rice milk until the roux is completely blended into the liquid.

Step 5: Bring to Boil

Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

Reduce heat back to medium and add finely chopped broccoli and julienned carrots. Cook for about 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 7: Incorporate Cheese

Add vegan cheddar cheese (we recommend Follow Your Heart) and stir until completely melted.

Step 8: Blend for Creaminess

Remove about 1/4 of the soup from the pot. Place it in your high-speed blender and blend until creamy. Return it to the pot and stir well.

Step 9: Season and Serve

Add salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy your Broccoli Cheddar Soup! Serve with croutons or crusty bread for an added crunch.

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate your meal experience, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this comforting dish.

With Croutons

• Add crispy croutons on top for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture of the soup.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives to enhance flavor and add a pop of color.

In a Bread Bowl

• Serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun and edible presentation that soaks up the flavors.

With Side Salads

• Pair your soup with a refreshing side salad to balance the richness of the cheese and provide extra nutrients.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top can add depth and richness to your Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To make the best Broccoli Cheddar Soup, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your soup is rich in flavor and texture.

• Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli has better flavor and texture compared to frozen. It will give your soup a vibrant color and taste.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a well-balanced soup.

• Opt for vegan cheese: Not all vegan cheeses melt well. Choose a brand known for its melting properties, like Follow Your Heart.

• Blend partially: For creaminess, blend only part of the soup. This gives you both chunky and smooth textures, enhancing the overall mouthfeel.

• Add nutritional yeast: Sprinkle in some nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy flavor without adding dairy.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing your Broccoli Cheddar Soup with side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the smoothness of the soup perfectly.

2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar adds crunch and zest, balancing the creaminess of the soup.

3. Veggie Wraps: Fresh veggie wraps provide a light option that pairs well with hearty soup.

4. Stuffed Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with grains make for an exciting side dish full of flavor.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional nutrition and a sweet contrast to the savory soup.

6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges add satisfying crunch alongside your creamy bowl of goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be straightforward, but certain mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking broccoli – This can lead to a mushy texture. Cook the broccoli just until tender for the best results.
• Using cold liquids – Adding cold broth and milk can slow down cooking. Always use room temperature or warm liquids for a smoother blend.
• Not blending enough – To achieve a creamy consistency, ensure you blend a portion of the soup thoroughly. This adds richness and texture.
• Ignoring seasoning – Salt and pepper enhance flavors significantly. Taste throughout the cooking process and adjust as needed.
• Choosing low-quality vegan cheese – Not all vegan cheeses melt well. Opt for high-quality brands for the best creamy results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow soup to cool before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Reheat on medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?

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

How can I enhance the flavor of my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Consider adding spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper for extra depth. Fresh herbs like thyme can also elevate flavors.

What is the best vegan cheddar cheese for this recipe?

We recommend brands like Follow Your Heart or Daiya, which melt well and provide great taste.

Can I use other vegetables in Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini for more variety and nutritional benefits.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables and spices to suit your taste. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or hearty lunches, making it a must-try recipe!