Excellent Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• cup butter
• cup all-purpose flour
• 9 cups chicken stock
• 9 cups milk
• 1 teaspoons white pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 5 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 pounds processed cheese, shredded
• 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions

Step 1: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low.

Step 2: Gradually add the chicken stock and milk to the pot, stirring well. Season with white pepper and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: While the soup is simmering, bring a second large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook them until just tender, about 2 minutes. Remove from the heat, drain, and set the broccoli aside.

Step 4: Gradually stir the processed cheese and shredded Cheddar cheese into the milk-stock mixture. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup becomes smooth.

Step 5: Add the cooked broccoli to the soup, stirring to combine. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the broccoli to become tender and the flavors to meld together.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	363	-
Total Fat	26g	34%
Saturated Fat	16g	81%
Cholesterol	81mg	27%
Sodium	1181mg	51%
Total Carbohydrate	15g	6%
Dietary Fiber	1g	3%
Total Sugars	9g	-
Protein	17g	35%
Vitamin C	23mg	26%
Calcium	513mg	39%
Iron	1mg	5%
Potassium	405mg	9%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

Broccoli cheese soup is a beloved American dish, known for its comforting, creamy texture and rich cheese flavor. Often served as a side dish, appetizer, or even a main course, it brings together the earthy taste of broccoli with the creamy goodness of cheese. While the soup is widely enjoyed today, its origin and variations offer an interesting look at how food evolves to reflect cultural preferences and regional influences.

History of Broccoli Cheese Soup

The origins of broccoli cheese soup can be traced back to the classic American tradition of combining vegetables with a creamy base. Broccoli itself, a vegetable native to the Mediterranean, has long been a staple in European cuisine. However, the pairing of broccoli with a creamy cheese sauce became popular in the United States in the mid-20th century. The dish likely gained traction in the 1970s and 1980s, when the popularity of cream-based soups surged. Its combination of vegetables and dairy made it an easy and comforting meal for families. Fast-forward to today, and broccoli cheese soup is a household favorite, particularly in colder months.

Regional Variations

Broccoli cheese soup has taken on a variety of regional adaptations over the years. In some parts of the United States, especially the Midwest and Northeast, the soup is often served with chunks of potato or bacon, adding extra heartiness. Meanwhile, in the Pacific Northwest, where fresh produce is abundant, you may find variations that incorporate locally grown vegetables like cauliflower or spinach alongside broccoli. Additionally, some chefs prefer to make the soup with a more decadent mix of cheeses, including sharp cheddar, Swiss, or even Gouda, to deepen the flavor profile. In some restaurants, its also served in a bread bowl, adding a rustic touch to this creamy soup.

What Makes It Different from Similar Dishes

While broccoli cheese soup shares similarities with other creamy vegetable soups, such as cream of broccoli or potato leek soup, there are distinct differences. The primary differentiating factor is the combination of both fresh broccoli and cheese, which is often absent in simpler vegetable soups. Unlike cream of broccoli soup, which tends to focus on the broccoli itself, broccoli cheese soup emphasizes the cheese, providing a rich, savory, and velvety texture. Furthermore, the use of processed cheese like Velveeta in some recipes gives the soup a unique smoothness that sets it apart from other cheese-based soups.

Where It's Commonly Served

Broccoli cheese soup is commonly found on the menus of diners, casual restaurants, and cafes across the United States. Its especially popular in chain establishments known for comfort food, such as Panera Bread, where its often offered as part of a meal deal alongside sandwiches or salads. Additionally, it is frequently served at home as a warming dish during winter months. Its popularity at gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners has made it a go-to recipe for cooks looking to please a crowd.

Interesting Facts

• Broccoli cheese soup is a nutritional powerhouse, offering a healthy dose of Vitamin C, calcium, and fiber, thanks to the broccoli and cheese.
• While some people opt for processed cheese like Velveeta, others prefer to use freshly grated cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or Gruyre, for a more gourmet version of the soup.
• Broccoli cheese soup is one of the few dishes that has crossed over into the bread bowl tradition, which is typically associated with soups like clam chowder.
• Did you know? Broccoli cheese soup freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Many people love to make a large batch and store it for later enjoyment!
• The soup is a comforting choice for anyone feeling under the weather, as it provides warmth, nourishment, and the soothing qualities of dairy.

Broccoli cheese soup is more than just a tasty mealit's a dish steeped in American comfort food tradition. Whether you're enjoying it as a bowl on a chilly evening or serving it up for a crowd, this dish continues to evolve and adapt, while always remaining a favorite for its creamy, cheesy goodness.

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