There is something deeply comforting about a velvety bowl of Broccoli and Stilton Soup Recipe, where the vibrant green broccoli meets the rich, tangy bite of Stilton cheese. This soup is a beautiful balance of fresh, earthy vegetables and bold, creamy cheese, coming together in a way that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Perfect for warming you up on a chilly day or impressing guests with a simple yet sophisticated starter, this recipe brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of luxury to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Broccoli and Stilton Soup Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role: fresh broccoli for color and freshness, Stilton cheese for depth and creaminess, and aromatic onions and garlic for a savory base that pulls everything together.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: The foundation for sautéing and adding a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and body to your soup’s flavor profile.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant kick that wakes up the taste buds.
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced: Provides natural thickening and a silky texture.
- 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable or chicken broth: The savory liquid base that ties all ingredients together.
- 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into florets: The star ingredient for that vibrant green burst and fresh garden flavor.
- ½ cup (120g) Stilton cheese, crumbled: Delivers a creamy tang that transforms ordinary soup into something extraordinary.
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk or cream (optional): For those who love their soup luxuriously smooth and rich.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out every nuance.
- Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceousness.
How to Make Broccoli and Stilton Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, and let them gently soften for about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is where the flavors start to build – that sweet onion aroma combined with garlic sets a hearty foundation for the soup.
Step 2: Add the Potato and Broccoli
Next, add the diced potato to the pot and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, stir in the broccoli florets, making sure they’re evenly coated with the savory base. The potato is your secret weapon for giving the soup just the right creamy thickness without needing too much dairy.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the soup cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and the potato is soft. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld perfectly and the vegetables to yield their essence.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Once the veggies are cooked through, it’s time to blend. Use an immersion blender right in the pot for an easy, hands-on approach, or carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender. Puree until smooth and creamy, the vibrant green color should be beautifully consistent throughout.
Step 5: Add the Stilton Cheese
Return the blended soup to the stove and gently stir in the crumbled Stilton cheese. Watch it melt into the hot soup, creating a luscious texture and a flavor that’s sharp and sumptuous. If you want it creamier, add milk or cream now, stirring until it blends seamlessly.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Give the soup a final taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Ladle it into bowls, and if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh parsley or chives right before serving to add a touch of freshness and color contrast.
How to Serve Broccoli and Stilton Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or chives brighten the dish and add a subtle herbal note that complements the cheese’s richness wonderfully. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top also elevates each spoonful with a gentle heat.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs amazingly well with crusty bread or warm garlic toast, perfect for dipping and soaking up every drop. A light side salad with citrusy dressing creates a balanced meal, while a few toasted nuts on the side bring an exciting crunch to the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls or keep it elegantly simple in white porcelain for a dinner party. For extra flair, drizzle a little olive oil or a swirl of cream on top to create beautiful patterns. You could even add some crispy bacon bits or toasted seeds for texture contrasts and a hint of smoky depth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Broccoli and Stilton Soup Recipe into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen and become even more comforting overnight.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to leave room for expansion and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to bring back that creamy consistency. If it thickens too much during storage, simply stir in a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of Stilton?
Absolutely! While Stilton’s bold flavor is key to this recipe, you can substitute with other blue cheeses like Roquefort or Gorgonzola, or even a milder cheese like sharp cheddar if you prefer a gentler taste.
Is it necessary to peel the potato?
Peeling ensures a smoother soup texture, but if you prefer a bit more rustic consistency, you can leave the skin on after washing thoroughly.
Can I make this soup vegan?
To make it vegan, use vegetable broth, substitute the Stilton with a vegan blue cheese or nutritional yeast, and replace milk or cream with coconut or oat milk for creaminess.
What if I don’t have an immersion blender?
No worries! Carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches to puree, then return it to the pot. This method works just as well and gives you the same silky result.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Leeks, celery, or spinach can add extra layers of flavor and nutrition. Just add them during the sautéing or simmering steps depending on their cooking times.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe this Broccoli and Stilton Soup Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s approachable, satisfying, and full of flavor that lingers in the best way. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients can come together to create extraordinary comfort food.
