Cauliflower Or Broccoli Soup
A comforting creamy cauliflower or broccoli soup with cheese, perfect for cozy meals and suitable for all seasons, blending hearty vegetables with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the cauliflower until tender.
- Mash one-third of the cooked cauliflower.
- Chop the remaining cauliflower into small pieces.
- In a pot, cook chopped onion and chopped celery in 1/4 cup butter until softened.
- Add flour to the onion and celery mixture and cook briefly to form a roux.
- Pour in chicken broth, water, and add chicken bouillon; cook until the mixture thickens.
- Add the chopped cauliflower, grated cheese, and milk to the pot.
- Heat the soup through until hot and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending the soup after adding the cheese and milk. If you want a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor of the soup significantly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Old Fashioned Cream Of Tomato Soup Or 4B'S Restaurant Tomato Soup for a comforting duo. Garnish with fresh herbs or additional cheese for an extra touch of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If the soup thickens, add a splash of milk or broth to restore the desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cauliflower Or Broccoli Soup contains roughly 313 calories, with 10g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (68% of the Daily Value), calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2174mg per serving (95% 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 cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before cooking it. The cooking time may be shorter, so adjust accordingly to ensure it's tender.
How can I make this soup vegan?
To make this soup vegan, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and omit the cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. This will keep the soup delicious while meeting dietary preferences.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding garlic, thyme, or bay leaves during the cooking process for added depth of flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the soup and enhance its taste. You might also try incorporating spices like smoked paprika for a unique twist.
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).