Get ready to fall in love with a cozy bowl of comfort that perfectly balances vibrant green broccoli and the bold, creamy tang of Stilton cheese. This Broccoli and Stilton Soup Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create a rich, velvety experience that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re new to Stilton or a longtime cheese fan, this soup’s depth of flavor and smooth texture make it an irresistible choice for any day of the year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in crafting the perfect harmony of flavors and texture. The fresh broccoli gives the soup its beautiful green color and earthy taste, while the Stilton cheese brings a punch of savory creaminess. The rest are pantry staples that enhance and balance the dish effortlessly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A healthy fat that starts the sautéing process and adds subtle richness.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory base flavor when softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a gentle pungency.
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced: Gives the soup body and creates a smooth, creamy texture when blended.
- 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid that brings everything together; chicken broth works too if you prefer.
- 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into florets: The star ingredient, offering a bright green color and fresh, slightly bitter taste.
- ½ cup (120g) Stilton cheese, crumbled: The creamy, tangy cheese that delivers the signature twist on this soup.
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk or cream (optional): For those who want an extra velvety finish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for highlighting all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to the finished dish.
How to Make Broccoli and Stilton Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic, then let them gently cook until the onions turn translucent and sweet—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds a flavorful foundation that makes the soup truly sing.
Step 2: Add Potato and Broccoli
Next, add the diced potato to the pot and give it a few minutes to soften and mingle with the onion and garlic. Then stir in the vibrant broccoli florets, ensuring they are well coated and ready for simmering. This combination will soon transform into that comforting green base we all love.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it all to a boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on the broccoli and potato — you want them tender enough to blend smoothly but still full of flavor.
Step 4: Blend to Perfection
With the vegetables perfectly cooked, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup until it’s silky smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. This creamy texture is the heart of the Broccoli and Stilton Soup Recipe.
Step 5: Melt in the Stilton
Return the blended soup to low heat and fold in the crumbled Stilton cheese. Stir continuously as the cheese melts into the mix, creating that luxurious, cheesy richness. If you want your soup even creamier, gently stir in milk or cream until you reach the perfect consistency.
Step 6: Season and Finish
Finally, taste your soup and season with salt and pepper to suit your preference. This finishing touch highlights every flavor note, ensuring each spoonful is as delightful as the last. Serve immediately or keep warm while you prepare your garnishes.
How to Serve Broccoli and Stilton Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley or chives on top not only brightens the look of your soup but also adds a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the rich Stilton perfectly. A little extra crumble of Stilton on top can turn each serving into a fancy delight.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm garlic toast for dipping. A simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette also provides a crisp counterpoint that balances the soup’s creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the soup in small cups or jars as a stylish appetizer. Drizzle a little olive oil or swirl cream on the surface to add an elegant finish. You can also sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds for some satisfying crunch and texture contrasts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover soup into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it an easy option for quick weekday meals or lunches.
Freezing
Broccoli and Stilton Soup Recipe actually freezes beautifully. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion!
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, thaw it overnight in the fridge if frozen, then gently warm it on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up if needed. Avoid boiling to keep the cheese texture smooth.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses instead of Stilton?
While Stilton gives this soup its unique tangy depth, you can experiment with other blue cheeses or creamy alternatives like Gorgonzola or Roquefort, keeping in mind that each will alter the flavor profile.
Is there a dairy-free version of this soup?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and a plant-based milk like oat or almond milk instead of cream, and omit the Stilton or replace it with a vegan cheese for a dairy-free twist.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
Simply stir in more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency. The soup should be creamy but easy to ladle and enjoy.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Yes! Adding spinach, peas, or leeks can boost the nutritional value and add extra layers of flavor, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How spicy is this soup?
This Broccoli and Stilton Soup Recipe is mild and comforting, but you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne if you want a little kick.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the comforting warmth and rich flavor of this Broccoli and Stilton Soup Recipe. It’s easy enough for a weeknight and special enough to impress guests — a beautiful way to enjoy wholesome ingredients with a cheesy twist. Give it a go and watch how it quickly becomes your new favorite go-to soup for any season.
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Broccoli and Stilton Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and creamy Broccoli and Stilton Soup that combines tender broccoli and potato with the rich, tangy flavor of Stilton cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or cozy dinner, offering a smooth texture and delightful taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into florets
- ½ cup (120g) Stilton cheese, crumbled (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk or cream (optional, for a creamier texture)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Add the Potato and Broccoli: Stir in the diced potato and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine evenly.
- Add the Broccoli Florets: Add the chopped broccoli florets to the pot and stir well, mixing with the other vegetables.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the broccoli and potato are tender.
- Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Add the Stilton Cheese: Return the blended soup to low heat. Stir in the crumbled Stilton cheese and continue to stir until the cheese melts into the hot soup, creating a rich, creamy texture. If the soup is too thick, add whole milk or cream to adjust the consistency.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the hot soup garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired for added flavor and color.
Notes
- You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or chicken broth for a richer flavor.
- For a dairy-free option, omit the Stilton cheese and milk or substitute with a plant-based cheese and milk alternative.
- The soup can be reheated gently on the stovetop; add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much on standing.
- Adjust the amount of Stilton according to how strong you want the cheese flavor to be.
- The soup freezes well. Cool completely before freezing in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
