Delicious Broccoli Soup

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Cut the broccoli into small pieces.
   • Finely chop the onion and carrot.
   • Mince the garlic cloves.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil and butter over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
   • Add the chopped carrot and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes.
3. Add the Flour:
   • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat them evenly.
   • Cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Add the Broth:
   • Gradually pour in the broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer.
5. Add the Broccoli:
   • Add the broccoli pieces to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Cover and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
6. Blend the Soup:
   • Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
7. Add the Cheese and Cream:
   • Return the blended soup to the pot (if using a blender) and stir in the mozzarella and cream.
   • Cook over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
8. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this delicious broccoli soup with a slice of crusty bread or garlic toast.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of grated cheese, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips:

• For a thicker soup, use less broth or let the soup simmer longer to reduce.
• For a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use vegetable broth, and replace the cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream.
• You can add other vegetables like potatoes or celery for additional flavor and nutrition.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Broccoli: Rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Carrots: Provide vitamins A and C, fiber, and beta-carotene.
• Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties and antioxidants.

Dietary Information:

• Vegetarian: This recipe can be easily adapted to be vegetarian by using vegetable broth.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour to make this soup gluten-free.
• Contains Dairy: Substitute dairy with non-dairy alternatives for a lactose-free version.

Conclusion:

This creamy and delicious broccoli soup is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, it’s sure to become a favorite in your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy this comforting soup and share it with your loved ones for a cozy and satisfying dining experience. Bon appétit!