Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Panera’s famous Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a beloved dish in many households, and our vegan version captures all the creamy goodness without compromising on flavor. This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or quick lunches, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy this healthy yet indulgent soup that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of broccoli and cheddar creates a rich and comforting taste that everyone loves.
• Vegan Friendly: This version excludes dairy, making it suitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance.
• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes of prep and cook time, you can whip up this soup in no time.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables like broccoli and carrots, it’s a healthy option for any meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with crusty bread or croutons for a satisfying experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make the preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• High-speed blender
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly without spilling.
• High-speed blender: Ensures a creamy texture by blending part of the soup smoothly.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes cutting onions, garlic, broccoli, and carrots easier and safer.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 cup white onions (chopped)
– 1 clove garlic (finely diced)
– 1/4 cup vegan butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 3 cups vegetable broth
– 4 cups rice milk (plain, unsweetened)
– 3 heaping cups broccoli (finely chopped)
– 1 1/2 heaping cups julienned carrots
– 1 cup vegan cheddar cheese
– Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Melt the vegan butter in a large pot over medium heat until it begins to bubble.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Stir in the chopped onions and finely diced garlic. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Roux

Add the all-purpose flour, mixing well until fully incorporated. This will create a roux that thickens your soup.

Step 4: Incorporate Liquids

Whisk in the vegetable broth and rice milk. Stir continuously until the roux is completely dissolved into the liquid.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil

Increase heat until the mixture reaches a boil.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

Reduce heat back to medium. Add chopped broccoli and carrots. Cook for about 10 minutes until tender.

Step 7: Stir in Vegan Cheese

Add the vegan cheddar cheese. Stir gently until completely melted into the soup.

Step 8: Blend for Creaminess

Remove about one-fourth of the soup from the pot. Place it in a high-speed blender. Blend until creamy then return it to the pot.

Step 9: Season to Taste

Add salt and pepper according to your preference. Serve hot with croutons or crusty bread for an extra treat!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving broccoli cheddar soup can elevate your meal experience. With a few creative touches, you can enhance its flavors and make it more enjoyable for everyone at the table.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor of sourdough complements the creamy soup perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: Add some crunch and flavor with warm, buttery garlic bread.

Add Toppings

• Croutons: A sprinkle of croutons adds texture and a delightful crunch to each spoonful.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley or chives can brighten the dish and add a fresh finish.

Serve in a Bread Bowl

• Bread Bowl: For a fun twist, hollow out a round loaf of bread and serve the soup inside for an edible container.

Pair with Salads

• Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and the richness of dressing balance well with the soup’s creaminess.
• Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and veggies provides a light contrast.

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How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creating the best broccoli cheddar soup is all about technique and ingredients. Follow these tips to ensure your soup is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor.

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli offers better texture and flavor than frozen options.
• Make Your Own Vegetable Broth: Homemade broth enhances taste compared to store-bought varieties.
• Whisk Thoroughly: Ensure your roux is well combined to avoid lumps when adding liquids.
• Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy consistency while retaining chunky vegetables.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go; adding salt and pepper in increments will help achieve perfect seasoning.
• Choose Quality Vegan Cheese: Opt for high-quality vegan cheese that melts well, such as Follow Your Heart or Daiya.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with your broccoli cheddar soup can create a complete meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this creamy delight.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic pairing offers gooey cheese goodness alongside your soup.
2. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad adds nutrition and balances the richness of the soup.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide a hearty option.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and flavor, making them an excellent side choice.
5. Pasta Salad: Cold pasta salad brings freshness and can be customized with various ingredients for added texture.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are always a hit, especially when dipped in the savory soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls that can lead to a less-than-perfect dish. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using old or wilted broccoli can affect the flavor and texture of your soup. Always choose fresh, vibrant produce for the best taste.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking the broccoli and carrots too long will make them mushy. Aim for a tender-crisp texture by cooking them just until they are bright in color.

• Not Mixing the Roux Properly: If the flour isn’t fully incorporated into the butter, you may end up with lumps in your soup. Stir well until you have a smooth roux before adding liquids.

• Using Low-Quality Vegan Cheese: Some vegan cheeses don’t melt well and can lead to a gritty texture. Opt for high-quality brands known for their melting properties.

• Skimping on Seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can result in bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to enhance flavors.

• Skipping the Blender Step: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture that elevates your dish. Don’t skip this step if you want that luscious consistency!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Broccoli Cheddar Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Store it in freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until heated through.
• Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh broccoli is great! Just make sure it’s chopped finely so it cooks evenly.

What type of vegan cheese works best?

For an ideal melt, we recommend brands like Follow Your Heart or Daiya.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends or cornstarch as thickening agents.

Is this Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthy?

Absolutely! This vegan version is lower in fat and calories compared to traditional recipes while still being rich in flavor.

Final Thoughts

This delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding extra vegetables or spices according to your taste. Try making it today for a cozy meal that everyone will love!