Craving that creamy, dreamy broccoli soup you love from Eat'n'Park? We get it. That comforting, velvety texture and perfectly balanced flavor is hard to beat. But guess what? You don't need to drive to your nearest restaurant to enjoy it! This recipe brings the magic of Eat'n'Park's cream of broccoli soup right into your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, or a cozy weekend lunch. This is one of those delicious dishes that's both satisfying and healthy, making it an excellent addition to your repertoire of easy recipes.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (optional, for a brighter flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a delicious base for your soup.
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Add the broccoli and broth: Add the broccoli florets and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
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Blend the soup: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. Be cautious when blending hot liquids! Vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.
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Stir in the cream and seasonings: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and milk. Season with salt, black pepper, white pepper (if using), and nutmeg (if using). Heat through gently; do not boil.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chives. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade version of Eat'n'Park's famous cream of broccoli soup!
Cooking Tips for the Best Homemade Cream of Broccoli Soup:
- Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli: Both work great! If using frozen broccoli, you may not need to simmer it as long.
- Don't Overblend: Overblending can make your soup watery. Aim for a smooth but slightly textured consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and other seasonings to suit your preference.
- Thicken the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes after adding the cream to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water for a smoother thickening.
Variations:
- Add Cheese: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese or Gruyere cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it Vegan: Substitute the heavy cream and milk with full-fat coconut milk for a delicious vegan version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a testament to how homemade cooking can be both delicious and effortless. Enjoy this comforting classic, and remember to share your culinary creations with friends and family!