Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. As it warms, it will create a beautiful base for your soup. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers. Next, introduce the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté these for about 3 to 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and slightly golden. Pay attention to the aroma—it should be delightful!
- Once the vegetables are fragrant and the onion is browned, take the pot off the heat. Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to combine. This will help thicken your soup later. You might see some clumping, but don’t worry; that’s normal. Carefully pour in the half-and-half while stirring continuously to ensure a smooth mix.
- Now, it’s time to add the essential liquids! Pour in the chicken stock and stir well. Then, add the broccoli, spinach, ground coriander, and ground paprika. This is where the magic begins! Return the pot to the burner and cover it. Allow the mixture to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent any lumps and to check on the broccoli for tenderness.
- As the soup simmers, you’ll begin to see the colors meld together beautifully. Once the broccoli is fork-tender, it’s time to add in the cheddar cheese. Stir until it melts completely and the soup becomes even creamier. Season with salt and pepper to taste; this is crucial for enhancing the overall flavor!
- To achieve that velvety smooth texture, use a stick blender to purée the soup to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can leave some chunks of broccoli intact. Remember, the blending should be done carefully to avoid any hot splashes!
- Your Broccoli Cheddar Soup is ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls while it’s hot. You can even sprinkle a bit more cheddar cheese on top for extra flair. Enjoy the warmth and richness of this comforting dish!
Notes
Leftover soup can be stored in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. Just reheat gently.
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for about three months. Remember to reheat it slowly!
Serve with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
If you enjoy some heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the mix.
For a vegetarian version, simply swap the chicken stock for vegetable broth and skip any meat add-ins.
