Broccoli-Buttermilk Soup
A creamy, flavorful broccoli and buttermilk soup with tender vegetables, perfect for a light lunch or starter, suitable for vegetarians and those seeking comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the broccoli, onion, garlic, and shallot in a steamer basket and steam over boiling water until broccoli is tender, about 12 minutes.
- Transfer the steamed vegetables to a food processor or blender and blend until pureed.
- With the motor running, slowly pour in the buttermilk.
- Avoid overprocessing to prevent the soup from becoming too frothy.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice to the soup. If you don't have buttermilk, you can easily substitute with a mixture of milk and vinegar or yogurt. For added texture, try incorporating some cooked diced potatoes or a handful of spinach. This vegetarian recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup warm, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It pairs beautifully with Cloverleaf Bran Rolls for a complete meal. For a more filling option, consider adding a side salad or a light sandwich, making it perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separating. You may need to add a splash of milk or water to achieve the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Buttermilk Soup contains roughly 31 calories, with 2g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% 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 well before steaming to prevent excess water from diluting the soup's flavor.
How can I adjust the thickness of the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, blend in some cooked potatoes or reduce the amount of buttermilk. For a thinner consistency, simply add more buttermilk or vegetable broth until you reach your desired texture.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the buttermilk with a non-dairy alternative, such as almond milk mixed with a bit of lemon juice or a dairy-free yogurt to achieve a similar creaminess without the dairy.
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).