Broccoli and Stilton Soup
Broccoli and Stilton Soup: A Creamy Delight
Broccoli and Stilton soup is a classic dish that combines the goodness of broccoli with the richness of Stilton cheese. This velvety soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings or when you’re in need of a nourishing meal. The combination of tender broccoli florets and the tangy, creamy Stilton cheese creates a delightful flavor that will leave you craving for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why you’ll fall in love with this broccoli and Stilton soup recipe. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to whip up a quick and delicious meal.
Secondly, this soup is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a light lunch or pair it with a crusty bread for a heartier meal. It’s also a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet, as broccoli is packed with essential nutrients and vitamins.
Lastly, the combination of broccoli and Stilton cheese creates a wonderful balance of flavors. The earthy taste of the broccoli is beautifully complemented by the bold, creamy notes of the Stilton cheese. This soup is a true delight for your taste buds.
Ingredients
To make this delicious broccoli and Stilton soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup Stilton cheese, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional ingredient substitutions:
- If you’re not a fan of Stilton cheese, you can use other blue cheeses like Roquefort or Gorgonzola.
- For a vegetarian version, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious bowl of broccoli and Stilton soup:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they turn translucent.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
- Return the soup to the pot and stir in the crumbled Stilton cheese. Cook over low heat until the cheese has melted and incorporated into the soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the soup hot and garnish with a sprinkle of crumbled Stilton cheese.
Expert Tips for Success:
- To add an extra layer of flavor, you can sauté the broccoli and onions in butter instead of olive oil.
- If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can reserve some broccoli florets before pureeing the rest of the soup. Add the reserved florets back into the pot after blending.
- For a creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
While the classic broccoli and Stilton soup is already a winner, you can get creative and customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:
- For a vegetarian version, you can replace the Stilton cheese with a vegetarian-friendly blue cheese or a creamy goat cheese.
- If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can use cheddar cheese for a milder flavor.
- For added texture, you can garnish the soup with toasted almond slices or croutons.
- If you want to make the soup even more filling, you can add cooked potatoes or white beans to the mixture before blending.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy broccoli and Stilton soup is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level by serving it with some tasty accompaniments. Here are a few suggestions:
- Pair the soup with a crusty baguette or some warm garlic bread for a satisfying meal.
- Serve the soup alongside a fresh green salad for a light and refreshing lunch.
- For an elegant touch, drizzle a swirl of balsamic glaze or truffle oil on top of the soup.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the pot.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While Stilton cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other types of cheese like Gruyère or even a sharp cheddar.
Final Thoughts
Broccoli and Stilton soup is a delicious and comforting dish that will warm your soul. With its creamy consistency and delightful flavors, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your apron and give this soup a try – you won’t be disappointed!
Broccoli and Stilton Soup
A classic and creamy broccoli soup with the richness of Stilton cheese, perfect for chilly evenings or a nourishing meal. This velvety soup combines tender broccoli florets with tangy, creamy Stilton cheese for a delightful flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup Stilton cheese, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
-
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they turn translucent.
-
Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
-
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
-
Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
-
Return the soup to the pot and stir in the crumbled Stilton cheese. Cook over low heat until the cheese has melted and incorporated into the soup.
-
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Serve the soup hot and garnish with a sprinkle of crumbled Stilton cheese.