Broccoli Bisque
Broccoli Bisque is a creamy and comforting soup that highlights the earthy flavors of broccoli and the brightness of lemon. Enhanced with dill and a touch of sherry, this bisque is perfect for cozy dinners or as a light starter. It's a nutritious choice for vegetarians and health-conscious eaters alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and garlic in a pan sprayed with nonstick cooking spray plus 2 tablespoons of chicken stock.
- Put remaining ingredients, except cornstarch mixture and broccoli flowerets, in a food processor fitted with the metal blade and puree.
- Return the pureed mixture to the pan.
- Add the cornstarch mixture and cook over low heat until thickened, stirring constantly.
- Add broccoli flowerets; heat and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving. If you're out of buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a little vinegar or lemon juice. Fresh dill can be swapped for dried dill, using about a third of the amount. This bisque can also benefit from a touch of nutmeg for added warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the broccoli bisque hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh dill or croutons for added texture. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Chicken Asparagus Casserole for a delightful contrast of flavors and colors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover broccoli bisque in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving for even heating, and stir occasionally to maintain a smooth consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Bisque contains roughly 522 calories, with 10g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2108mg per serving (92% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used as a convenient alternative. Just ensure it is thawed and drained before steaming. It may require slightly less cooking time since it's already partially cooked, so keep an eye on it during preparation.
How can I make this bisque vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth, replace buttermilk with a plant-based milk such as almond or soy milk, and omit the dry sherry or use a vegan alternative. Additionally, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I add protein to this bisque?
Absolutely! For added protein, consider stirring in cooked shredded chicken or white beans after blending the soup. This enhances the nutritional profile and can make it more filling, perfect when you're looking for a hearty meal.
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).