Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. This vegan version captures the creamy richness of the classic soup while being healthier and packed with flavors. Whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner, this soup is perfect for any occasion. It combines wholesome ingredients like broccoli and carrots with a delightful vegan cheddar to create a bowl of happiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delicious soup in just 30 minutes.
• Flavorful & Creamy: The combination of garlic, onions, and vegan cheddar creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables, this soup not only tastes great but also provides essential nutrients.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or a side, serve it with bread or croutons for added texture and flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it reheats beautifully!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly without splatter.
• High-speed blender: Ensures a smooth, creamy texture by blending part of the soup effortlessly.
• Measuring cups: Helps you get precise amounts for each ingredient, ensuring consistency in flavor.
• Cutting board & Chef’s knife: Essential for quick and safe chopping of vegetables.

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Ingredients

To create this flavorful Broccoli Cheddar Soup, gather the following ingredients:

Vegetables

• 1 cup white onions (chopped)
• 1 clove garlic (finely diced)
• 3 heaping cups broccoli (finely chopped)
• 1 1/2 heaping cups julienned carrots

Base & Dairy Alternatives

• 1/4 cup vegan butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 4 cups rice milk (plain, unsweetened)

Cheese & Seasoning

• 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 completely liquefied.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onions and finely diced garlic to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Create the Roux

Stir in the flour until it is fully incorporated with the butter mixture. This will form a roux that thickens your soup.

Step 4: Add Broth and Rice Milk

Whisk in the vegetable broth and rice milk gradually until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps from the roux.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil

Increase heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring continuously.

Step 6: Cook Vegetables

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

Step 7: Incorporate Vegan Cheese

Add in your favorite vegan cheddar cheese (we recommend Follow Your Heart). Stir until completely melted into the soup.

Step 8: Blend for Creaminess

Remove about 1/4 of the soup from the pot. Transfer it to a high-speed blender. Blend until creamy, then return it to the pot and stir well.

Step 9: Season & Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, optionally topped with croutons or alongside fresh bread for dipping. Enjoy!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli cheddar soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re having a quiet dinner at home or hosting friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked baguette – A warm baguette pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.
• Sourdough slices – The tanginess of sourdough complements the richness of the soup.

Topped with Croutons

• Homemade croutons – Add a crunchy texture by tossing cubed bread in olive oil and seasoning before baking.
• Store-bought options – For convenience, you can use pre-made croutons for an instant crunch.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped chives – Sprinkle some fresh chives on top for a mild onion flavor.
• Parsley – A handful of chopped parsley adds vibrant color and freshness.

Served in Bread Bowls

• Edible bread bowls – For a fun twist, hollow out small loaves of bread and fill them with soup for a delightful presentation.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed greens salad – A light salad balances the richness of the soup.
• Caesar salad – The flavors of Caesar dressing work well with broccoli cheddar soup.

How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To make your broccoli cheddar soup truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh broccoli and carrots provide better flavor than frozen alternatives.
• Cook slowly – Allowing the soup to simmer gently lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Adjust thickness – If too thick, add more vegetable broth or rice milk until your desired consistency is reached.
• Experiment with cheese – Different brands of vegan cheese can yield varying flavors; find your favorite for the best taste.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with your broccoli cheddar soup can create a balanced meal. Here are some delicious ideas:

1. Garlic Bread – Crunchy and flavorful, garlic bread is always a favorite alongside soups.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers roasted until tender make a healthy side.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Filled with quinoa or rice, they provide extra nutrition and flavor.
4. Simple Green Salad – A fresh salad dressed lightly offers contrast to the creamy soup.
5. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs add a satisfying crunch.
6. Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip – Creamy dip served with tortilla chips makes an indulgent side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Broccoli Cheddar Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the roux: Not creating a roux can result in a soupy texture. Make sure to mix the flour with the vegan butter thoroughly before adding liquids.
• Using cold liquids: Adding cold broth or milk can cause lumps. Always whisk in room temperature or warm liquids gradually.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking broccoli and carrots for too long can make them mushy. Aim for a crisp-tender texture by cooking just until bright and tender.
• Choosing low-quality cheese: Not all vegan cheeses melt well. Select a high-quality vegan cheddar for the best flavor and consistency.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Broccoli Cheddar Soup that might help you with your recipe!

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Broccoli Cheddar Soup ahead of time! Just store it in the refrigerator or freezer as described above.

What can I use instead of vegan cheddar cheese?

If you want an alternative to vegan cheddar cheese, try using nutritional yeast or a homemade cashew cheese blend.

How do I thicken my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

If your soup is too thin, whisk in a bit more flour with some broth to create a slurry. Stir it into the soup while heating until thickened.

Is this Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Broccoli Cheddar Soup by adding vegetables like cauliflower or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or spices based on your taste preferences. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its creamy goodness!