Description
This Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is a rich and creamy delight, combining tender broccoli florets with the smooth, smoky flavor of Gouda cheese. Perfect for a comforting meal, it features a velvety texture achieved by pureeing the soup and finishing with a blend of cream, milk, and smoked paprika for a subtle warmth. Garnished with croutons or extra cheese, this soup makes a satisfying starter or light main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish
- Croutons or extra cheese
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Cook broccoli: Add the broccoli florets and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Puree soup: Using an immersion blender directly in the pot or by carefully transferring the soup to a blender, puree until smooth and creamy.
- Add cream and seasonings: Return the pureed soup to the pot if blended separately. Stir in heavy cream, milk, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Melt cheese: Add the shredded smoked Gouda cheese into the soup, stirring continuously until it is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with croutons or additional cheese as desired. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Fresh or frozen broccoli can be used depending on availability; fresh is preferred for better texture.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- The smoked Gouda adds a unique smoky flavor; substituting with regular Gouda will alter the taste slightly.
- Ensure the soup is pureed well for a smooth and creamy texture.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, as the cheese adds saltiness.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on stovetop or microwave.
