Description
This Panera-inspired Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe features fresh broccoli florets and smooth, shredded plant-based cheddar cheese melted into a warm and creamy soup base thickened with a natural gelling agent. With vibrant flavors, simple ingredients, and a comforting texture, it is perfect for a cozy meal or quick lunch that satisfies and soothes your palate.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Soup Base
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 3 tbsp plant-based butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp natural gelling agent (e.g., pectin, agar, carrageenan)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (natural)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded plant-based cheddar (plant-based)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Warm the plant-based butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, diced carrots, and minced garlic, cooking until tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes, creating a sweet and savory base.
- Add Broccoli and Broth: Stir in fresh broccoli florets, coating them in the buttery mixture. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer until broccoli and carrots are tender, about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Blend the Soup Base: Use an immersion blender or standard blender to puree the soup until mostly smooth but with some chunks remaining for texture, achieving a creamy yet hearty mouthfeel.
- Thicken with Flour and Natural Gelling Agent: In a small pan, melt more plant-based butter, then whisk in all-purpose flour to form a roux. Slowly add a splash of the hot soup to temper the roux, then whisk it back into the main pot. Stir in the natural gelling agent dissolved in a little water, ensuring perfect thickness without heaviness.
- Add Plant-Based Cheddar and Seasonings: Lower the heat and stir in shredded plant-based cheddar until fully melted and incorporated. Finish with a splash of apple cider vinegar (natural), salt, and black pepper to balance and brighten the flavors. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Use bright green, firm broccoli for the best soup color and texture.
- Add plant-based cheddar off the heat to prevent clumping.
- Simmer gently after adding cheese to maintain a smooth texture.
- Adjust the amount of natural gelling agent to control soup thickness.
- Let the soup sit for 10 minutes after cooking to deepen flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, plant-based soup, vegan broccoli cheddar, creamy broccoli soup, dairy-free soup, comforting soup
