Pin It When the air turns crisp and the evenings grow longer, nothing warms the spirit quite like a velvety bowl of Cauliflower and Broccoli Soup. This comforting dish brings together the earthy flavors of fresh garden vegetables and aromatic herbs, creating a nutritious meal that feels like a warm embrace in a bowl. Whether you're seeking a light lunch or a cozy starter, this soup is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients.
Pin It The secret to this soup's depth lies in the aromatic base of sautéed onions, celery, and carrots. As they soften, they release a sweetness that complements the subtle bitterness of the brassicas, while dried thyme and oregano weave through the broth to provide a fragrant, herbal finish. The addition of homemade croutons adds that essential crunch that makes every spoonful exciting.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 medium head cauliflower (cut into florets), 1 medium head broccoli (cut into florets), 1 medium onion (diced), 2 celery stalks (diced), 2 medium carrots (diced), 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- Liquids: 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth, 1 cup (240 ml) milk or unsweetened plant-based milk
- Spices & Seasoning: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Croutons: 2 cups cubed crusty bread, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, pinch of salt
- Optional Toppings: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan or vegetarian hard cheese
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Croutons
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden and crisp. Set aside.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots; sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, thyme, and oregano; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 3. Cook the Vegetables
- Stir in cauliflower and broccoli florets, and cook for 2–3 minutes. Pour in vegetable broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- 4. Blend and Season
- Remove from heat. Use an immersion blender to blend soup until smooth and creamy (or blend in batches in a stand blender). Stir in milk, season with salt and pepper. Gently reheat if needed.
- 5. Garnish and Serve
- Ladle soup into bowls, top with croutons, parsley, and cheese if using. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, use an immersion blender to achieve a perfectly smooth consistency without the hassle of transferring hot liquid. If you want to elevate the flavor profile even further, follow the note to add a pinch of nutmeg during the final seasoning stage; it adds a wonderful, subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with the cauliflower.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly adaptable. To make it strictly vegan, use a plant-based milk and omit the cheese. For those with gluten sensitivities, simply swap the bread for a gluten-free variety when making the croutons. If you are looking for an even richer experience, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
Serviervorschläge
Ladle the hot soup into deep ceramic bowls and be generous with the toppings. The fresh parsley adds a pop of color, while the Parmesan provides a savory bite. According to the notes, a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc makes for an excellent wine pairing, cutting through the creaminess of the soup beautifully.
Pin It This Cauliflower and Broccoli Soup is more than just a meal; it is a bowl of pure comfort. Simple to prepare yet elegantly flavorful, it is sure to become a staple in your kitchen whenever you need a healthy, warming dish to brighten a gray day. Enjoy every creamy, crunchy spoonful!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup keeps beautifully for 3-4 days when refrigerated in an airtight container. The flavors actually develop and improve overnight. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to adjust consistency.
- → How do I achieve the smoothest texture?
An immersion blender works perfectly right in the pot. For extra silkiness, blend thoroughly until no vegetable pieces remain. If using a stand blender, work in batches and vent carefully to avoid steam buildup.
- → What vegetables work as additions?
Potatoes add extra creaminess, while a zucchini or bell pepper introduces subtle sweetness. Spinach or kale can be stirred in during the last few minutes for color and nutrients without altering the classic flavor profile.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
Freeze without the milk for best results—add fresh milk when reheating. Portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently on the stovetop.
- → How do I make the croutons extra crispy?
Use day-old crusty bread for best texture. Cut into uniform cubes, coat evenly with oil and seasoning, and spread in a single layer without overcrowding the baking sheet. Watch closely during the last few minutes to achieve perfect golden color.
- → What herbs complement this soup best?
Fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage enhance the earthy vegetables beautifully. Add fresh herbs at the end of cooking to preserve their bright flavors. A pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the creamy base.