Creamy Broccoli Apple Soup
Highlighted under: Balanced Meal Recipes
I absolutely love making Creamy Broccoli Apple Soup, especially on chilly days. The combination of the earthy broccoli and the sweet, crisp apples creates a delightful balance of flavors that warms my soul. Each spoonful is velvety and satisfying, making it a perfect dish for lunch or dinner. This soup is not only comforting but also a great way to sneak in some veggies. I can't wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy its wonderful taste and texture.
When I first tried adding apples to broccoli soup, I was a bit skeptical. However, after experimenting with different apple varieties, I discovered that the sweetness of a tart apple like Granny Smith harmonizes beautifully with the slight bitterness of broccoli. This soup became a family favorite, and I can’t help but share it with everyone I know!
I also found that using a high-speed blender creates an ultra-smooth texture that elevates the dish even further. For extra creaminess, I like to finish it off with a swirl of coconut cream, which complements both the broccoli and apple perfectly. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every drop!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The surprising combination of broccoli and sweet apple for a unique flavor experience
- A creamy texture that is both comforting and satisfying
- Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a light snack
Balancing Flavors
The combination of broccoli and apples in this soup creates a fascinating interplay of flavors. The tartness of the Granny Smith apple complements the earthiness of the broccoli, enhancing the overall taste profile. When sautéed, the apple softens and releases natural sugars, which balance the savory notes of the onion and garlic. As a tip, choosing a tart apple instead of a sweet one intensifies the flavor contrast, making each spoonful more exciting.
Seasoning is another crucial factor in achieving the perfect flavor balance. After blending the soup, taste before adding the salt and pepper. Sometimes, a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of nutmeg can further elevate the taste. Finding that sweet spot in seasoning not only enhances the flavors of the main ingredients but also brightens the overall dish.
Texture Matters
Achieving a velvety texture is essential for a soup like this. Blending the soup until smooth is critical; if you prefer a slight chunkiness, be cautious not to over-blend. For the best results, using an immersion blender allows for easy control over the consistency. If using a traditional blender, allow the soup to cool slightly to prevent steam buildup, which can cause hot liquids to erupt if blended too vigorously.
Incorporating coconut cream adds a rich, creamy element that elevates the soup's mouthfeel. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream is perfect, but be mindful of its intensity. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the coconut cream with unsweetened almond milk or another plant-based milk to retain creaminess without overwhelming the soup.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious soup:
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 large tart apple (like Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Gather all of these ingredients before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your creamy soup:
Sauté the Base
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add Broccoli and Apple
Add the broccoli florets and chopped apple to the pot, stirring well to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Pour in Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring that the broccoli and apples are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Blend Until Smooth
Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. If using a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches.
Finish with Coconut Cream
Stir in the coconut cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through before serving.
Enjoy your soup hot, garnished with extra apple slices or a drizzle of olive oil.
Pro Tips
- For a twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness. Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and it reheats beautifully!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This Creamy Broccoli Apple Soup holds well in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain even warmth and prevent scorching, especially since the coconut cream can separate when reheated.
For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. If the texture appears slightly different after freezing, simply re-blend with a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore its creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Creamy Broccoli Apple Soup with a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for an added crunch, which complements the smooth texture. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds richness and is visually appealing. Pairing it with crusty bread or sandwiches makes for a heartier meal, perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
For those looking to elevate the dish further, consider adding freshly chopped herbs, like chives or parsley, just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the flavor profile, enhancing the overall experience. My favorite addition is a spoonful of pesto on top for a burst of herby flavor and a dash of sophistication.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It should last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
→ Can I use regular cream instead of coconut cream?
Absolutely! If you're not dairy-free, feel free to use heavy cream for a richer texture.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.
→ Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
Yes! Simply ensure you use a plant-based broth and continue with the coconut cream for a delicious vegan option.
Creamy Broccoli Apple Soup
I absolutely love making Creamy Broccoli Apple Soup, especially on chilly days. The combination of the earthy broccoli and the sweet, crisp apples creates a delightful balance of flavors that warms my soul. Each spoonful is velvety and satisfying, making it a perfect dish for lunch or dinner. This soup is not only comforting but also a great way to sneak in some veggies. I can't wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy its wonderful taste and texture.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Balanced Meal Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 large tart apple (like Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the broccoli florets and chopped apple to the pot, stirring well to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring that the broccoli and apples are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. If using a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches.
Stir in the coconut cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through before serving.
Extra Tips
- For a twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness. Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and it reheats beautifully!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 4g