Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy and comforting dish that warms the soul. This vegan version captures all the beloved flavors of the classic Panera recipe, making it perfect for cozy dinners or quick lunches. With its rich texture and delightful taste, this soup is not only satisfying but also a healthier option for everyone, including vegans. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or as a hearty meal prep option, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup will impress your family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Rich: The combination of fresh broccoli, carrots, and vegan cheddar creates a savory explosion in every bite.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and plant-based ingredients, this soup is both wholesome and filling.
• Versatile Meal Option: Perfect as a standalone dish or paired with crusty bread for dipping, it’s suitable for any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this creamy soup, making it a great choice for family meals.

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Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• High-speed blender
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup ingredients together evenly without spilling.
• High-speed blender: Ensures a creamy texture by blending part of the soup until smooth.
• Whisk: Helps to combine the roux with liquids smoothly, preventing 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 the Flavor

• 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 bubbly.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

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

Step 3: Make the Roux

Add flour to the mixture:
Stir well until fully incorporated to form a roux.

Step 4: Add Liquids

Whisk in:
Vegetable broth
Rice milk
Continue whisking until there are no lumps in the roux.

Step 5: Bring to Boil

Bring the entire mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

Return to medium heat:
Add chopped broccoli and julienned carrots.
Cook for about 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 7: Incorporate Vegan Cheese

Add your chosen vegan cheddar cheese:
Stir continuously until melted completely into the soup.

Step 8: Blend for Creaminess

Remove about 1/4 of the soup from the pot:
Place it into a high-speed blender.
Blend until smooth then return it back to the pot.

Step 9: Final Seasoning

Adjust seasoning:
Add salt and pepper to taste before serving. Enjoy with croutons or bread!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a warm and comforting dish that can be enhanced with various serving suggestions. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your bowl of soup.

With Croutons

• Crunchy Texture: Top your soup with homemade or store-bought croutons for an added crunch that complements the creamy texture.

With Bread

• Dipping Delight: Serve alongside a slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette, perfect for dipping into the rich flavors of the soup.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• Flavor Boost: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds a touch of richness and enhances the overall taste of your Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

With Fresh Herbs

• Herbal Aroma: Garnish your soup with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

In a Bread Bowl

• Edible Serving: For a fun twist, serve your Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. It makes for an impressive presentation and delicious meal.

How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creating the perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup takes a few key steps. Follow these tips for a deliciously creamy outcome.

• Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli offers better flavor and texture compared to frozen varieties.
• Make a smooth roux: Ensure your flour is fully incorporated into the butter before adding liquids to prevent lumps.
• Whisk continuously: While adding broth and rice milk, whisk continuously to achieve a creamy consistency without clumps.
• Adjust seasonings: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor balance.
• Blend for creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a velvety texture that enhances the dish.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different brands or types of vegan cheddar cheese to find your favorite flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving side dishes alongside Broccoli Cheddar Soup can create a wholesome meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garden Salad: A light salad filled with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds freshness.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic pairing provides gooey goodness that pairs perfectly with the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies complement the flavors while adding nutrition.
4. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice, beans, or quinoa for added protein and flavor.
5. Quinoa Salad: A hearty quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges make for a satisfying side that everyone will enjoy.
7. Hummus & Veggies Platter: This healthy option provides crunch and variety alongside your comforting bowl of soup.
8. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful twist and pair wonderfully with the savory flavors of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be straightforward, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the roux: A roux is essential for thickening the soup. Make sure to mix the flour with the butter thoroughly before adding liquids.
• Not chopping vegetables uniformly: Unevenly chopped broccoli and carrots can lead to inconsistent cooking. Aim for similar sizes to ensure even tenderness.
• Using unsweetened rice milk: Sweetened rice milk can alter the flavor of your soup. Always use plain, unsweetened rice milk for the best results.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its vibrant color. Cook only until just tender for a better texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Adding salt and pepper at the end is crucial. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow soup to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.

Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, for even warming.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat while stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Broccoli Cheddar Soup that may help you perfect your dish.

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?

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

What type of vegan cheddar cheese should I use?

Use any vegan cheddar that melts well; brands like Follow Your Heart or Daiya are excellent choices.

How can I customize my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach, or incorporate different spices for extra flavor.

Is Broccoli Cheddar Soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh broccoli will add great flavor and texture to your soup.

Final Thoughts

This vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a comforting meal ideal for any time of year. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a cozy bowl of goodness!