Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to soothe the soul, especially when it’s as comforting and creamy as smoked gouda broccoli soup. This delightful dish combines the rich, nutty flavor of smoked gouda cheese with tender broccoli and carrots in a velvety broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy dinner at home, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.
A Personal Story Behind My Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table for warm, hearty meals. One of my mother’s specialties was her signature broccoli soup, which always had everyone asking for seconds. As I grew older, I experimented with different ingredients and techniques, and that’s when I discovered the magic of smoked gouda. This recipe is not just a dish; it’s a warm reminder of home and love shared over comforting meals.
What Makes This Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe Special?
This soup stands out not just for its rich flavor but also for its creamy texture and vibrant colors. The combination of smoked gouda with fresh vegetables creates a unique taste that elevates a classic broccoli soup into something extraordinary. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.
The Full Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
- 16 ounces vegetable or chicken broth
- 16 ounces whole milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into small florets
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 8 ounces (226 g) smoked gouda, freshly grated
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Tip: Make sure the butter is fully melted before adding the onions for an even cook. Add the diced onions and cook until they soften and turn slightly brown, around 4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Stir in the flour to create a paste and cook for 1 minute. This will help thicken your soup.
- Pour in the chicken broth, milk, salt, paprika, and pepper. Whisk well to combine, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add the chopped broccoli and grated carrot, stirring to mix. Tip: Broccoli should be chopped into small florets to ensure they cook evenly. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cover the saucepan, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the vegetables reach your desired tenderness. Tip: If you prefer a creamier soup, consider blending half of the mixture after it’s done cooking.
- Remove the soup from the heat and gradually add the shredded gouda, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely.
- Serve the soup warm, topped with croutons for added texture.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup
This soup is delightful on its own, but there are plenty of ways to enhance your meal. Consider serving it with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded dinner. For added flair, sprinkle some extra smoked gouda on top just before serving, or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. If you have leftover soup, it can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day – just reheat gently on the stove.
Frequently Asked Questions About Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup
Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in place of fresh. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.
How can I make this soup dairy-free? You can substitute the whole milk with a dairy-free alternative, such as almond milk or oat milk, and use a non-dairy cheese for the gouda.
Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well! Just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Is this soup gluten-free? To make this soup gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup
Equipment
- Saucepan For cooking the soup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
- 16 ounces vegetable or chicken broth
- 16 ounces whole milk
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 0.25 teaspoon pepper
- 1 large head broccoli, chopped into small florets
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 8 ounces smoked gouda, freshly grated
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onions and cook until they soften and turn slightly brown, around 4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Stir in the flour to create a paste and cook for 1 minute. This will help thicken your soup.
- Pour in the chicken broth, milk, salt, paprika, and pepper. Whisk well to combine, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add the chopped broccoli and grated carrot, stirring to mix. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cover the saucepan, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the vegetables reach your desired tenderness.
- Remove the soup from the heat and gradually add the shredded gouda, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely.
- Serve the soup warm, topped with croutons for added texture.