Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup of butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tsp of Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp of salt
• 1/4 tsp of ground mustard
• 1/4 tsp of black pepper
• 3 tbsp of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups of vegetable broth
• 1 cup of milk (substitute with evaporated milk if desired)
• 1 cup of cream
• 4 cups (about 250 grams) of broccoli florets
• 3 cups (about 180 grams) of shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Heat the Pot: Place a large pot or Dutch oven on the stove over medium-high heat. Melt the butter in the pot.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and carrot to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
3. Season: Introduce the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, ground mustard, and black pepper to the pot. Cook for another minute to allow the spices to become fragrant.
4. Make a Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring constantly. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, milk, and cream, stirring continuously. Keep cooking and stirring until the mixture starts to thicken slightly.
6. Cook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the soup. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer until the broccoli is tender, which should take about 10 minutes.
7. Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the soup and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
8. Serve: Once the cheese is fully incorporated and the soup has reached your desired consistency, it’s ready to serve. Enjoy your warm and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup!