Broccoli and Cheddar Soup

Broccoli and cheddar soup is a timeless comfort dish that combines the wholesome, earthy flavor of fresh broccoli with the creamy, indulgent richness of sharp cheddar cheese. It’s a versatile option, ideal for warming up on chilly evenings, enjoying a quick yet satisfying lunch, or impressing guests as a starter at a dinner party. With the Thermomix, making this classic soup is easier than ever. The Thermomix handles everything from chopping the broccoli to blending and cooking, ensuring a smooth, velvety texture while retaining the vibrant, fresh flavors of the ingredients. This efficient method allows you to create a comforting, restaurant-quality soup in no time, making it an essential recipe for any occasion.

Visit this Healthy Thermomix Recipes Guide to discover more nutritious and easy-to-make recipes.

Why Choose Broccoli and Cheddar Soup?

Broccoli and cheddar soup is a wholesome, nutrient-packed meal that strikes the perfect balance between health and indulgence. Broccoli is loaded with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, making it a powerhouse of nutrition. Meanwhile, cheddar cheese contributes a velvety richness and satisfying creaminess, adding a touch of indulgence to this comforting dish. The soup is incredibly versatile, allowing for adaptations to suit various dietary needs—swap regular cheddar for a dairy-free alternative, use low-fat cheese for a lighter option, or add additional vegetables for an extra boost of nutrients. Whether enjoyed as a hearty main course or a cozy side dish, this soup is both nourishing and delicious, making it a favorite for any occasion.

Visit Epicurious for insights into crafting vegetable-based soups with gourmet flair.

Why Make Broccoli and Cheddar Soup with Thermomix?

The Thermomix is an all-in-one kitchen powerhouse that takes the hassle out of preparing broccoli and cheddar soup. It handles every step with ease, from precisely chopping the vegetables to cooking and blending them to perfection. The controlled cooking temperature ensures the broccoli retains its vibrant color and nutrients, while the powerful blending function creates a creamy, consistent texture. With the Thermomix, you can enjoy robust, well-balanced flavors in less time and with minimal effort, making it an indispensable tool for crafting this comforting classic.

Benefits of Using Thermomix:

Effortless Preparation: Chop, sauté, cook, and blend all in one appliance.
Precision Cooking: Perfectly cooked broccoli every time.
Consistent Texture: Achieve smooth, creamy soup with minimal effort.

Visit this Thermomix Accessories Guide for tools to elevate your cooking experience.

Ingredients for Broccoli and Cheddar Soup

500g fresh broccoli, cut into florets
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
500ml vegetable or chicken stock
200ml heavy cream or milk (or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk)
200g sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
½ teaspoon paprika or cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
Salt and black pepper to taste
A pinch of nutmeg for warmth

Optional toppings:

Croutons
Extra shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley or chives

How to Make Broccoli and Cheddar Soup with Thermomix

Sautéing the Base

Add butter or olive oil to the Thermomix bowl. Heat at 120°C for 3 minutes on Speed 1. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté for an additional 5 minutes at 120°C on Speed 1 until the onions are soft and fragrant.

Visit this Thermomix Recipe Community for tips on achieving the perfect sauté.

Cooking the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets and your choice of vegetable or chicken stock to the Thermomix bowl. Season with salt, pepper, a dash of paprika for subtle warmth, and a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the soup’s depth of flavor. Cook at 100°C for 12 minutes on Speed 2, ensuring the broccoli becomes tender while the flavors meld together beautifully. This step prepares the base for a rich and creamy broccoli and cheddar soup.

Blending to Desired Consistency

Blend the soup on Speed 5 for 1 minute, or until it reaches a smooth and velvety consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half the soup, then mix it back into the unblended portion in the Thermomix bowl. This method allows you to enjoy a balance of creamy broth and tender broccoli pieces, tailoring the soup’s texture to your preference.

Incorporating the Cheese

Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, cream, and Dijon mustard (if using). Heat at 90°C for 2 minutes on Speed 2, ensuring the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.

Visit this Weight Watchers Recipes Thermomix for lighter alternatives to cream-based soups.

Customizing Your Broccoli and Cheddar Soup

1. Spicy Twist

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to your broccoli and cheddar soup to introduce a subtle hint of heat. This touch of spice complements the creamy, cheesy base and enhances the overall flavor without overpowering it. Adjust the amount to suit your heat tolerance, and sprinkle a few extra chili flakes on top for garnish if you want a visually appealing kick.

2. Added Vegetables

Enhance the texture and flavor of your broccoli and cheddar soup by incorporating additional vegetables like carrots, celery, or potatoes. Carrots add a natural sweetness and vibrant color, celery brings a subtle aromatic flavor, and potatoes create a creamier consistency when blended. Simply chop the vegetables and add them alongside the broccoli during the cooking step. These additions not only enrich the soup’s flavor profile but also boost its nutritional value, making it heartier and even more satisfying.

3. Vegan Option

For a vegan-friendly version of broccoli and cheddar soup, replace the cream with coconut milk to maintain a creamy texture while adding a subtle hint of natural sweetness. Swap the cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan cheddar to achieve the cheesy flavor without dairy. These substitutions create a plant-based soup that’s just as rich, flavorful, and satisfying, making it suitable for various dietary preferences without compromising on taste.

Visit BBC Good Food for additional ideas on customizing vegetable soups to fit your dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

As a Main Dish

Pair the soup with crusty bread, a warm baguette, or Thermomix Dinner Rolls for a satisfying meal.

As a Starter

Serve smaller portions of broccoli and cheddar soup in individual bowls or cups for an elegant appetizer. Garnish each serving with a drizzle of cream to add a touch of richness and a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color and a hint of warmth. This presentation elevates the dish, making it perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.

For a Light Meal

Pair the broccoli and cheddar soup with a fresh side salad or a platter of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. A crisp salad with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and contrast to the creamy soup. Alternatively, roasted vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or sweet potatoes bring a warm and hearty complement, enhancing the meal’s flavor and nutritional value. This combination makes for a balanced lunch or dinner that’s both delicious and nourishing.

Visit this Banana Smoothie Thermomix Recipe for a refreshing drink to accompany your meal.

Tips for Perfect Broccoli and Cheddar Soup

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality cheddar cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Don’t Overcook: Overcooking the broccoli can dull its vibrant green color and make it mushy.
Balance the Flavor: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, especially after adding cheese.

Storing and Reheating Broccoli and Cheddar Soup

Refrigeration:

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the Thermomix at 90°C on Speed 2 until warmed through.

Freezing:

Freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Visit King Arthur Baking for expert tips on freezing and reheating soups.

Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli and Cheddar Soup

Rich in Vitamins: Broccoli is packed with vitamins C and K, essential for immune and bone health.
High in Protein: Cheddar cheese provides protein, which is vital for muscle repair and growth.
Low in Carbs: This soup is an excellent option for those on low-carb or keto diets.

Visit this Healthy Porridge Bowl Thermomix Recipe for another nutrient-dense meal idea.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works just as well and saves time. Adjust the cooking time slightly.

2. Can I skip the cream?

Yes, you can use milk or additional stock for a lighter soup without cream.

3. Can I make the soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen when made a day in advance. Store and reheat as needed.

4. How do I prevent grainy soup?

Ensure the cheese is added gradually and stirred over low heat to prevent curdling.

Visit this Thermomix Recipe Community for more FAQs and troubleshooting tips.

Conclusion

Broccoli and cheddar soup is a versatile and comforting dish that’s effortlessly prepared with the Thermomix. Its robust flavor, silky smooth texture, and vibrant green hue make it a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a quick yet satisfying lunch, this soup fits the bill. Easily adaptable, you can customize it to suit dietary preferences—opt for plant-based cheese for a vegan version or add extra vegetables for a nutrient boost. Pair it with crusty bread, a side salad, or even some crunchy croutons for a complete meal. This classic soup is a delicious and wholesome choice any time of the year.

Visit this Thermomix Accessories Guide to enhance your cooking skills and start making your perfect broccoli and cheddar soup today!