Ingredients
Soup Base
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
- 16 ounces broth, vegetable or chicken
- 16 ounces whole milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Vegetables
- 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into small florets
- 1 large carrot, grated
Cheese
- 8 ounces (226 g) smoked gouda, fresh grated
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them gently until they become soft and translucent, releasing their fragrant aroma.
- Create the Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the cooked onions and garlic, stirring continuously to combine. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the broth (vegetable or chicken) while whisking to prevent lumps. Then add the whole milk, stirring until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Add Seasonings and Vegetables: Season the soup with salt, paprika, and pepper. Add the chopped broccoli florets and grated carrot into the pot, stirring them into the thickened soup base.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Add Smoked Gouda Cheese: Remove the soup from heat and stir in the freshly grated smoked Gouda cheese until fully melted and incorporated, creating a rich and smoky flavor.
- Blend for Creaminess (Optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until creamy but still retaining some small broccoli pieces for texture. Alternatively, leave as is for a chunkier soup.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately, optionally garnishing with extra grated cheese or freshly cracked black pepper.
Notes
- You can substitute smoked Gouda with other smoky cheeses like smoked cheddar or fontina if desired.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or simmer longer to concentrate flavors.
- For a lactose-free version, use lactose-free milk and a suitable cheese alternative.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the creamy flavor if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American