Broccoli Gloucester Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy lunch or snack. This recipe combines the goodness of broccoli with the rich, creamy taste of double Gloucester cheese, creating a satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of this delicious soup in no time.
To start, gather your ingredients: a yellow onion, fresh broccoli, a bay leaf, unsalted butter, dry vermouth, double Gloucester cheese, milk, salt, and white pepper. These basic ingredients come together to create a soup that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition.
Begin by peeling the onion and slicing it thinly. Next, clean the broccoli thoroughly, making sure to remove any leaves from the stalks. Cut the stalks into thin medallions, and chop the florets into roughly 2-inch chunks. You may want to set aside a few nice florets to steam and use as garnish in the finished soup bowls for an extra touch of elegance.
In a large soup pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and broccoli pieces to the pot, and sauté them until they’re softened, being careful not to let the onion brown. Once the vegetables are softened, pour in the dry vermouth and let it come to a simmer, infusing the soup with its delicious flavor.
While the soup simmers, grate the double Gloucester cheese. For an extra special touch, consider using Stilchester cheese if you can find it, as it adds a unique depth of flavor to the dish. Add the grated cheese to the soup pot, stirring until it’s fully incorporated and melted into the mixture.
Once the cheese is melted, it’s time to puree the soup. You can use a food processor or a hand-held blender to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Be sure to blend the soup until it’s well pureed and the cheese is fully incorporated.
After pureeing, return the soup to the pot and add the milk or cream, stirring until everything is well combined. Season the soup with salt and white pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed to suit your preferences.
Serve the Broccoli Gloucester Soup hot, garnished with the reserved broccoli florets if desired. This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy the rich, creamy goodness of this delightful soup, perfect for any occasion!
