Description
This Smoky Gouda Broccoli Soup is a comforting and creamy dish that combines the rich flavors of smoked gouda with fresh broccoli and carrots, simmered to perfection in a creamy broth. Ideal for a cozy lunch or dinner, this soup features a smooth, velvety texture and a hint of smokiness that elevates classic broccoli soup to a delicious new level.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 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
Vegetables
- 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into small florets
- 1 large carrot, grated
Cheese
- 8 ounces (226 g) smoked gouda, freshly grated
Instructions
- Saute Aromatics: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the diced onions and cook until they begin to brown and become translucent, about 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Create Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour to the onion and garlic mixture, forming a paste. Cook this roux for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Gradually whisk in the vegetable or chicken broth along with whole milk, ensuring the mixture is smooth. Season with salt, paprika, and pepper, stirring well to combine.
- Add Vegetables and Simmer: Incorporate the chopped broccoli florets and grated carrot into the soup. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender to your preference.
- Incorporate Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and slowly add the freshly grated smoked gouda cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and integrated into the soup, creating a smooth, creamy texture.
- Serve: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and, if desired, garnish with croutons for added texture and crunch. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, use less milk or simmer a few minutes longer uncovered.
- Use freshly grated Gouda for best melting texture and flavor.
- Vegetarian option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250 ml)
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
