Broccoli and Stilton Soup

This Broccoli and Stilton Soup is a comforting, creamy delight that combines the rich, tangy flavors of Stilton cheese with the freshness of broccoli. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out on a chilly day. The creaminess of the soup, paired with the distinct taste of the cheese, makes for a perfect balance of flavor that feels indulgent yet wholesome. It’s simple to make and great for both lunch and dinner!

Why You’ll Love Broccoli and Stilton Soup:

• Creamy & Rich: The Stilton cheese brings a wonderful, rich depth to the soup, making it creamy and satisfying without being too heavy.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with nutritious broccoli and a few simple ingredients, this soup is a great way to enjoy some veggies in a hearty, comforting dish.
• Perfect for Chilly Days: It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozying up with during the colder months.
• Easy & Quick: This recipe is simple to prepare, and you’ll have a delicious pot of soup ready in under 45 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head of broccoli)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 medium potato, peeled and chopped (for creaminess)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 cup Stilton cheese, crumbled (or more to taste)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra richness)

Note: The full list of ingredients with measurements is provided in the recipe card above.

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics

• In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

2. Cook the Broccoli and Potato

• Add the broccoli florets and chopped potato to the pot. Stir everything together for about 2 minutes.
• Pour in the broth (vegetable or chicken), and bring the mixture to a boil.
• Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli and potato are tender.

3. Blend the Soup

• Once the vegetables are tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth, then return to the pot.

4. Add the Stilton Cheese

• Stir in the crumbled Stilton cheese and let it melt into the soup, creating a creamy texture. If you want an extra creamy soup, add the heavy cream and stir until combined.

5. Season the Soup

• Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Add the dried thyme if you’re using it for an extra layer of flavor.

6. Serve & Enjoy!

• Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with extra crumbled Stilton cheese or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper if desired.
• Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Broccoli and Stilton Soup:

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add more broth. If you like it thicker, reduce the amount of broth or add more potato.
• Make it vegan: For a dairy-free version, omit the Stilton cheese and heavy cream and use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
• Top it off: Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for a tangy twist, or sprinkle some toasted nuts on top for a bit of crunch.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 850mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 23g
• Dietary Fiber: 5g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 8g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Stilton?
A1: Yes, you can substitute Stilton with other blue cheeses like Roquefort or Gorgonzola for a similar flavor. Alternatively, you can use cheddar for a milder version.

Q2: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the soup ahead of time, and it will taste even better the next day. Just let it cool and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Q3: Can I freeze Broccoli and Stilton Soup?
A3: Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove.

Q4: Can I make this soup without a blender?
A4: Yes! You can leave it chunky if you prefer, or mash the vegetables with a potato masher for a textured soup.

Q5: How can I make this soup vegan?
A5: To make it vegan, omit the Stilton cheese and use a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for flavor. Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative in place of heavy cream.

Q6: Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
A6: Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or even leeks for extra flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q7: How can I make this soup spicier?
A7: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup to give it a spicy kick.

Q8: Can I use frozen broccoli for this soup?
A8: Yes, frozen broccoli can be used instead of fresh. Just be sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the soup.

Q9: How can I make this soup smoother?
A9: To achieve a silky smooth texture, you can strain the soup after blending to remove any remaining vegetable pieces.

Q10: What do I serve with Broccoli and Stilton Soup?
A10: This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a light salad. It’s also delicious when served alongside a grilled cheese sandwich.

Conclusion:

Broccoli and Stilton Soup is a wonderful, comforting dish that combines the earthy, fresh flavor of broccoli with the rich tanginess of Stilton cheese. This soup is perfect for chilly days, and its creamy texture and deliciously complex flavor will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or just as a cozy treat for yourself, this soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!

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