Introduction:
Broccoli, a superfood rich in vitamins and minerals, is a popular green vegetable that can be cooked in various ways. One of the most delicious ways to enjoy broccoli is to make it as an ingredient in upper soup. Here is a simple recipe to guide you through the process of making upper soup with broccoli.
Ingredients:
- Fresh broccoli – 1 large head
- Chicken stock or vegetable stock – 2 cups
- Water – 2 cups
- Salt – to taste
- White pepper – a pinch
- Cream or milk – 1 cup (optional)
- Fresh garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Oil – 1 tablespoon
- Salted chicken meat or vegetable protein of your choice (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Clean the broccoli head thoroughly under running water to remove any impurities or pesticides. Cut the broccoli into small florets and separate them from the stem. The stem can be used in other dishes or discarded if not needed. Set the florets aside.
Step 2: Boil the Stock and Water
In a large pot, bring the chicken stock or vegetable stock and water to a boil. Add the minced garlic and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Once the mixture starts boiling, add the broccoli florets and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become bright green and tender.
Step 3: Blend the Soup Base
Using a blender or food processor, blend the cooked broccoli and some of the stock mixture to create a creamy soup base. You can add more stock if needed to achieve the desired consistency. Return the blended mixture to the pot and add the cream or milk, if using, to give the soup a richer flavor and texture.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Add a pinch of white pepper to enhance the flavor of the soup. If you are using chicken meat or other protein, add it at this stage and let it simmer with the soup for a few minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preference. Let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes to allow all the flavors to blend together.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the upper soup into bowls and serve immediately. You can sprinkle some fresh herbs or cheese on top for added flavor and presentation. Enjoy this delicious upper soup with broccoli as a starter or a light meal with your family and friends.
Notes:
- For a richer flavor, you can add chicken meat or other proteins of your choice to the soup. This will also provide more nutrients and make the soup more filling.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference. You can add more salt, pepper, or even herbs like basil or oregano to enhance the flavor of the soup.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of water used in the recipe or increase the amount of blended broccoli mixture added back to the pot.
- This recipe can be easily adapted to suit your dietary preferences. For example, you can use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to make it vegetarian-friendly, or skip the cream/milk for a dairy-free option.
- Upper soup is typically served as a starter or a light meal, but it can also be paired with other dishes as a side soup. It is a great way to start a meal or enjoy a comforting dish anytime.
Conclusion:
Making upper soup with broccoli is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy this superfood. By following this recipe, you can easily prepare a healthy and flavorful soup that your family and friends will love. Experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to create your own unique version of upper soup with broccoli and enjoy the process of cooking!