Broccoli And Mushroom Chowder
A creamy, comforting broccoli and mushroom chowder packed with fresh flavors, perfect for cozy dinners and suitable for vegetarians when using vegetable broth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut broccoli into 1/2-inch pieces.
- Steam the broccoli in 1/2 cup water until tender, do not drain.
- In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 to 4 minutes without letting it brown.
- Stir in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low.
- Add the steamed broccoli, sliced mushrooms, half and half, salt, and white pepper.
- Heat through but do not boil.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic with the mushrooms. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth and use plant-based butter. For a thicker chowder, blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also enhance the dish's flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chowder hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Honey Glazed Rock Cornish Hens or a light pasta dish. Enjoy it as a comforting lunch or a cozy dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or half and half to achieve your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli And Mushroom Chowder contains roughly 807 calories, with 51g protein, 149g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (249% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 828mg per serving (36% 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 and mushrooms instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli and mushrooms to save time. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the chowder to prevent excess moisture. The texture may be slightly different, but they will still add flavor to the dish.
How can I make this chowder dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk instead of half and half. Additionally, ensure that the chicken broth is also dairy-free or use vegetable broth. The flavor will still be delicious!
Can I add other vegetables to this chowder?
Absolutely! This chowder is versatile, and you can add vegetables such as carrots, corn, or potatoes for added texture and flavor. Just chop them into small pieces and add them along with the broccoli and mushrooms for a heartier soup.
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).