Bountiful Cream Of Broccoli Cheese And Clam Bisque
A rich and creamy bisque combining tender broccoli, succulent clams, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for comforting gatherings or elegant starters. The velvety texture and savory flavors make it a versatile dish that appeals to seafood and cheese lovers alike, offering a satisfying bowl of warmth and flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Microwave the broccoli, chopped onions, chicken broth, and salt, covered, for 20 minutes.
- Set aside 6 cooked broccoli flowerets for garnish.
- Puree the broth mixture in a food processor for about 20 seconds.
- Return the pureed mixture to the stove.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened.
- Add the drained and rinsed minced clams to the soup.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
- Garnish the bisque with the reserved broccoli flowerets before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother bisque, consider using an immersion blender instead of a food processor. If you want a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with additional chicken broth. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for an extra depth of flavor. This recipe pairs wonderfully with hearty American recipes, making it a delightful choice for a cozy dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bisque with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a light white wine. For a fun twist, consider topping it with crumbled bacon or a dollop of sour cream. This dish can be a fantastic starter or a main course, enjoyed with dishes like Chicken Sandwich Deluxe.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bisque in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If it thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bountiful Cream Of Broccoli Cheese And Clam Bisque contains roughly 1523 calories, with 42g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 131g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (114% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (112% of the Daily Value), and protein (84% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain it properly before adding it to the recipe. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, but it will still provide great flavor.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the bisque gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. When making the roux, use the same amount of the gluten-free alternative to thicken the soup effectively.
Can I add other vegetables to the bisque?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like carrots or potatoes for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to cook them until tender before pureeing the mixture to maintain a smooth texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).