Warm up your kitchen and your soul with a bowl of creamy Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup. This hearty and comforting soup combines the wholesome goodness of broccoli and cauliflower with the rich creaminess of cheese, making it the perfect dish for cooler days or anytime you crave a comforting meal. Join us as we explore how to make this delicious soup step-by-step, along with tips to customize and elevate its flavors.
Ingredients
Prepare the following ingredients to make Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 2 cups half and half, at room temperature
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 2 cups cauliflower florets, chopped
- 1 large carrot, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Create Roux:
- Sprinkle flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook the flour, forming a roux that will thicken the soup.
- Add Liquids:
- Gradually pour in chicken or vegetable stock, stirring continuously to incorporate the roux into the liquid without lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add Vegetables:
- Stir in chopped broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, and shredded carrot. Simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and cooked through.
- Blend and Thicken:
- Using an immersion blender or working in batches with a regular blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
- Add Half and Half:
- Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in half and half, allowing it to warm through. Do not boil to prevent curdling.
- Season and Finish:
- Stir in Dijon mustard and grated cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the soup. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup into bowls. Garnish with additional grated cheese, a sprinkle of black pepper, and fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Cooking Tips
- Blending Soup: For a smoother texture, blend the soup until completely smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only partially, leaving some vegetables intact.
- Cheese Selection: Experiment with different types of cheese such as sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend of cheeses for varying flavor profiles. Adjust the amount of cheese to suit your preference for richness.
- Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, to maintain its creamy consistency.
Variations
Add Protein:
- Incorporate cooked chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, or crispy bacon pieces to add protein and extra flavor to the soup.
Vegan Option:
- Substitute butter with olive oil and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Replace half and half with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk. Use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Spicy Twist:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a subtle heat that complements the creamy cheese and vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup is a versatile dish that can be served as a satisfying meal on its own or as a starter before a larger dinner. Pair it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a crusty baguette for a complete and comforting dining experience.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I freeze Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 2-3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
2. How do I make the soup thicker or thinner?
To adjust the consistency, if you prefer a thicker soup, increase the amount of flour in the roux or blend less when pureeing. For a thinner soup, add more stock or half and half until reaching the desired consistency.
3. What other vegetables can I add to this soup?
Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables such as diced potatoes, spinach, or bell peppers. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure all vegetables are tender.
Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together the best of seasonal vegetables and creamy cheese in every spoonful. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a comforting lunch, this soup is sure to satisfy with its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Embrace the warmth and goodness of homemade soup with this delicious recipe!
