I still remember the first time I made Mary Berry’s Broccoli and Stilton Soup – it was a chilly winter evening, and I was looking for a comforting, creamy soup to warm up my family. This recipe immediately caught my attention, and I’m so glad it did, as it’s now a staple in our household. If you’re a fan of rich, velvety soups with a depth of flavor, you’ll love this one, and I’m excited to share it with you today.
I recall being intrigued by the combination of broccoli and Stilton cheese, as I’d never paired these ingredients before. As I began cooking, the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic filled my kitchen, and I knew I was in for a treat. The best part? This soup is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The flavor is incredibly rich and creamy, thanks to the Stilton cheese and heavy cream.
- This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time.
- The cost is relatively low, as broccoli and onions are affordable, and you can use leftover Stilton cheese.
- This soup is highly versatile, as you can serve it as a starter, main course, or even use it as a sauce for pasta or rice.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup crumbled Stilton cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Note: You can substitute the Stilton cheese with other blue cheeses, such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort, if you prefer. Additionally, feel free to use frozen broccoli if fresh is not available.
Equipment You’ll Need
To make this recipe, you’ll need a large saucepan, a blender or food processor, and a strainer or fine-mesh sieve.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until it’s softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add the broccoli florets to the saucepan and cook for 5 minutes, or until they’re tender but still crisp.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the soup for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is very tender.
- Use a blender or food processor to puree the soup until smooth, working in batches if necessary.
- Return the soup to the saucepan and stir in the heavy cream and crumbled Stilton cheese until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, then strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining broccoli bits.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional Stilton cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Tips for Success & Common Mistakes
To ensure the best results, be sure to not overcook the broccoli, as it can become bitter and unappetizing. Also, don’t skip the step of straining the soup, as this will help remove any unwanted texture and leave you with a smooth, creamy soup. If you find the soup too thick, you can thin it out with a bit more broth or cream. Finally, be patient when melting the Stilton cheese, as it can take a few minutes to fully incorporate into the soup.
Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, if you prefer a milder flavor. You can also add other ingredients, like diced ham or cooked chicken, to make the soup more substantial. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or milk.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm the soup over low heat, whisking constantly, or reheat it in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until hot and creamy.What to Serve With It
This soup is delicious served on its own, but you can also pair it with a variety of sides, such as crusty bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables. For a more substantial meal, try serving it with a grilled cheese sandwich or a side of roasted meat, like chicken or beef.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the soup up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight.
Q: Can I freeze the soup? A: Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months, but be sure to thaw it slowly in the refrigerator or reheat it from frozen.
Q: What type of broth should I use? A: You can use either chicken or vegetable broth, depending on your personal preference and dietary needs.
Q: Can I substitute the Stilton cheese with another type of cheese? A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary.
Q: Is this soup suitable for vegetarians? A: Yes, this soup is vegetarian-friendly, but be sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Calories: 250 per serving
Course: Soup
Cuisine: British
Keywords: Mary Berry, broccoli, Stilton cheese, soup, creamy, comforting