Creamy Broccoli Soup (Printable Recipe)

Rich and creamy broccoli soup with fresh vegetables and butter, topped with golden homemade croutons.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Main Soup Base

01 - 4 tablespoons butter, room temperature
02 - 1 1/2 pounds fresh broccoli
03 - 1 large onion, chopped
04 - 1 carrot, chopped
05 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper
06 - 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
07 - 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
08 - 1/2 cup heavy cream

→ Homemade Croutons

09 - Day-old French bread
10 - Olive oil
11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper
12 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Melt 4 tablespoons butter in heavy medium pot over medium-high heat. Add broccoli, onion, carrot, salt and pepper and sauté until onion is translucent, about 6 minutes.
02 - Add the flour and cook for 1 minute, until the flour reaches a blonde color. Add stock and bring to boil.
03 - Simmer uncovered until broccoli is tender, about 15 minutes. Pour in cream. With an immersion blender, purée the soup. Add salt and pepper to taste.
04 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut bread into cubes and place in a large bowl. Drizzle cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Mix well. Spread seasoned bread onto a sheet pan and bake for about 15 minutes.
05 - Serve hot soup topped with homemade croutons.

# Extra Tips:

01 - For a silky smooth texture, strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve after blending
02 - Croutons can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days
03 - Soup can be made dairy-free by substituting coconut milk for heavy cream