Authentic Broccoli And Apple Soup (A Delightful Crunch)

by Julia
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July 17, 2023

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Step into a world of surprising harmony with our Broccoli and Apple Soup, a unique blend that combines the earthiness of broccoli with the natural sweetness of apples. This vibrant green soup is silky smooth, with a creamy texture that envelops your palate, while the hint of tartness from the apples adds an exciting twist. A sprinkle of toasted almonds adds a delightful crunch, and a drizzle of cream brings an indulgent richness, making this soup a deliciously unexpected treat for your taste buds.

Discover a new favorite with this culinary revelation – Broccoli and Apple Soup. This irresistible blend of garden-fresh broccoli and crisp, juicy apples create a flavor sensation that transcends the ordinary.

As you savor each spoonful, this delightful duo dances between sweet and savory, a symphony of flavors awakening your taste buds. This soup recipe, replete with essential nutrients, is as much a feast for the body as for the palate.

This food adventure doesn’t just sate your hunger; it delights, surprises, and inspires. Who knew that soup could be such a revelation? Uncover this secret for yourself today.

What Is Broccoli And Apple Soup?

Broccoli and Apple Soup is an innovative dish combining the earthy freshness of broccoli and the sweet crispness of apples. The ingredients are pureed to a velvety texture, creating a flavorful fusion of contrasting yet harmonious notes simmered together until tender.

Often accented with aromatic herbs and spices, it’s a delightful exploration of the savory and sweet spectrum. This soup provides a nutrient-dense meal packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants while offering a unique gustatory experience, challenging traditional soup conventions.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

This versatile recipe can be easily adapted to fit a variety of dietary preferences:

Keto Keep the base recipe the same but replace apples with a lower-carb option like zucchini. Make sure to use a keto-friendly stock.
Paleo The original recipe is already Paleo-friendly. Just use ghee or coconut oil instead of butter and a Paleo-compliant stock.
Gluten-Free The base recipe is gluten-free. Just ensure to use gluten-free stock.
Whole30 For Whole30, replace the butter with ghee or compliant oil, and ensure your chicken or vegetable stock is Whole30-compliant. Also, omit the sliced almonds or replace them with compliant nuts.
Vegetarian and Vegan Replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock. Replace butter with vegan butter or oil like olive or coconut for a vegan version.

Recipe Directions

Begin by preparing the ingredients: chop the onion, core and cut the apples into chunks, and prepare the broccoli by removing any woody ends and tough skin.
Heat a Dutch oven or heavy stock pot over moderate heat and add oil and butter. Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns clear and translucent.
Add the chopped apples and broccoli to the pot and cook for a minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Pour in the stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil, infusing all the ingredients with its savory richness.
Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let the soup cook for approximately 20 minutes or until the broccoli stems are tender enough to be easily pierced with a knife.
Stir in the refreshing zest of a lemon, along with salt and pepper to season the soup to your preferred taste. Remove the pot from heat and let it stand for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to further develop.
To achieve a smooth and creamy texture, use an immersion blender to purée the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, if using a food processor, blend the soup in batches and then return it to the pot.
In a separate non-stick pan, lightly toast sliced almonds over low heat for approximately 3-4 minutes until they become fragrant and develop a beautiful golden color.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed for a well-balanced flavor profile.
When ready to serve, ladle the hot soup into bowls and generously sprinkle the toasted almonds on top for an elegant and crunchy garnish.
For a refreshing twist, you can chill the soup in the refrigerator for several hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together and providing a cool option for enjoyment.
If you have specific dietary needs, feel free to make ingredient substitutions, such as using vegetable stock for a vegetarian or vegan version, or replacing the apples with zucchinis for a keto-friendly adaptation that suits your preferences.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

The Broccoli and Apple Soup recipe is wonderfully adaptable, and you can easily introduce a range of variations, add-ons, and toppings to suit your palate. Here are a few ideas:

Variations

Spices: Add cumin, coriander, or curry powder to flavor the soup differently.
Cheese: Stir in blue cheese or cheddar cheese for a creamy twist.
Vegan: Replace the butter with olive oil or vegan butter for a vegan variation, and use vegetable stock.
Low-Carb: Substitute apples with a lower-carb vegetable like zucchini for a keto-friendly version.

Add-Ons

Protein: For extra protein, add cooked chicken, tofu, or chickpeas.
Greens: Stir in other greens, such as kale or spinach, for different nutrients.
Grains: For a heartier soup, add cooked quinoa or brown rice.

Toppings

Nuts: Besides toasted almonds, try topping with toasted pumpkin seeds or walnuts for a nutty crunch.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill add color and flavor.
Yogurt or Sour Cream: A dollop of yogurt or sour cream adds a tangy creaminess that complements the soup’s flavors.
Croutons: Homemade croutons offer a crunchy texture contrast.
Chili Flakes: For a kick of heat, sprinkle some red chili flakes on top.

Can I Make Broccoli And Apple Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot can be utilized to make Broccoli and Apple Soup. Here’s how:

Slow Cooker

Sauté the onion in oil and butter until translucent in a separate pan, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
Add the apples, broccoli, and stock to the slow cooker.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the broccoli is tender.
Stir in the lemon zest, salt, and pepper, then purée the soup using an immersion blender.
Toast the almonds per the original recipe, and sprinkle them on top before serving.

Instant Pot

Using the sauté function, heat the oil and butter. Add the onion and cook until translucent.
Add the apples, broccoli, and stock. Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 5-7 minutes.
Quickly release the pressure, then stir in the lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Purée the soup directly in the pot using an immersion blender.
Toast the almonds per the original recipe, and sprinkle them on top before serving.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

You can certainly use either store-bought or homemade broth for your Broccoli and Apple Soup. Both have their advantages:

Store-bought Broth

This is a convenient option, particularly if you’re short on time. Look for a high-quality, low-sodium broth to control your soup’s salt content. If you’re following a specific diet, like gluten-free or vegan, ensure the broth complies with your dietary needs.

Homemade Broth

Making your broth gives you complete control over the ingredients and the flavor. It’s a great way to use leftover bones or vegetables; you can make it in large batches to freeze for future use. Homemade broth typically has a richer flavor than store-bought versions.

How To Serve?

The presentation of your Broccoli and Apple Soup can enhance its appeal, making it even more enticing to enjoy. Here’s how to serve it in an elegant and appetizing way:

Bowl Selection: Choose a deep, wide bowl to serve your soup. A light-colored or white bowl can make the color of the soup stand out.
Toasted Almonds: Sprinkle the toasted almonds on top of the soup before serving. They add a delightful crunch and visual appeal to the smooth texture of the soup.
Fresh Herbs: A sprig of fresh herbs like parsley or a few leaves of fresh thyme can add a pop of color and hint at the flavors within the soup.
A Drizzle of Oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or even a flavored oil (like truffle oil) can add a touch of sophistication and enhance the flavors of the soup.
Serve with Bread: A slice of crusty bread or a bread roll on the side is always a welcome accompaniment for soup. It’s perfect for dipping and makes the meal more satisfying.
Warm Bowls: Warm your soup bowls before serving (a minute in the microwave or a few minutes in a warm oven should do the trick). This helps to keep the soup hot for a longer time.

Perfect Side Dishes

Serving side dishes with your Broccoli and Apple Soup can transform it from a light meal or appetizer into a full, satisfying dinner. Here are some great side dish suggestions:

Fresh Salad: A light and refreshing salad can complement the soup wonderfully. Try a mixed green salad with a simple vinaigrette for arugula salad with a lemon dressing for a citrusy twist.
Crusty Bread: Few things are better with soup than crusty bread or a warm bread roll. It’s perfect for dipping into the soup, making it more substantial.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic grilled cheese sandwich can be a delightful pairing with soup if you want comfort food. The melted cheese and crispy bread contrast nicely with the smooth texture of the soup.
Roasted Vegetables: A side of simple, roasted vegetables like asparagus, brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes would work well and help to round out the meal.
Quinoa or Brown Rice: If you’re looking for a heartier side, a serving of cooked quinoa or brown rice can add some satisfying whole grains to your meal.
Cheese Board: For a more sophisticated touch, consider serving the soup as a starter to a cheese board featuring a selection of your favorite cheeses, crackers, and fresh fruit.

Storage And Make Ahead

Storage: Cool soup completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Make Ahead: Prepare the soup as directed, but do not add any dairy (like cream or cheese) if using. Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, reheat the soup over low heat and stir in the dairy just before serving for the freshest taste.

What Can We Do With The Leftovers?

Pasta Sauce: Thin the soup with a bit of broth or cream and toss it with cooked pasta for a quick and flavorful sauce.
Risotto: Use the soup as a base for a creamy broccoli and apple risotto. Add Arborio rice and cook slowly, stirring in more broth as needed, until the rice is creamy and tender.
Bread Bowl: Hollow out a bread loaf, pour in the soup, and bake until the bread is crispy. Serve the soup-filled bread bowl as a fun and edible container.
Vegetable Casserole: Mix the soup with cooked rice or quinoa, chopped vegetables, and your choice of protein (like chicken or tofu). Top with cheese and bake for a comforting casserole.
Smoothie: Believe it or not, leftover soup can be transformed into a smoothie by blending it with some yogurt or milk. Add a banana or other fruits for sweetness, and blend until smooth.

TIPS

Enhance Flavor: Roast the broccoli and apples before adding them to the soup. This caramelizes the sugars, intensifying their flavors.
Texture: For a chunkier soup, reserve some roasted broccoli and diced apples to add at the end. This adds texture and visual appeal.
Spices: Incorporate warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or smoked paprika to complement the sweetness of the apples and add depth to the soup.
Creaminess: Blend a portion of cooked white beans into the soup for a creamy texture without adding cream. It also boosts the protein content.
Garnish: Top each bowl with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds, and a drizzle of honey for a finishing touch.