Easy Broccoli Soup – Vegan, Thermomix

I remember my grandmother always making a big pot of cream of broccoli soup on chilly autumn days. The aroma would fill the whole house, a comforting blend of earthy broccoli and warm, savory broth. While her recipe wasn’t vegan, this Thermomix adaptation captures that same comforting essence with a vibrant, healthy twist, relying on the natural creaminess of perfectly cooked broccoli to create a silky-smooth and utterly satisfying soup.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Total Time: 12 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Vegan

Ingredients

• 300 g broccoli, cut into florets (about 2 heads)
• 1 liter water, for steaming
• Salt, to taste

Equipment Needed

• Thermomix
• Varoma steamer attachment

Instructions

1. Pour the 1 liter of water into the Thermomix bowl.

2. Place the broccoli florets in the Varoma steamer attachment. Ensure the florets are evenly distributed to promote even steaming.

3. Steam the broccoli for 7 minutes/Varoma/speed 1 – or until the florets are a bright, brilliant green and just tender enough to cut with a fork. It’s crucial not to overcook the broccoli at this stage; you want it tender but still vibrant in color.

4. Carefully pour the water used for steaming into a separate bowl or measuring jug. This water is now infused with broccoli flavor and will be used to achieve the perfect soup consistency.

5. Place the cooked broccoli into the Thermomix bowl.

6. Add some of the reserved cooking water back into the Thermomix bowl – start with approximately 350 grams. It’s always easier to add more liquid than to remove it, so begin conservatively.

7. Add salt to taste. Remember that the steaming process may have already imparted some saltiness, so taste before adding too much.

8. Blitz the mixture by gradually increasing the speed from 1 to 10. This gradual increase ensures a smooth and even puree.

9. Check the consistency of the soup. If it seems too thick, add more of the reserved cooking water and blitz again for a few seconds until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, you can always add more water, but you can’t take it away, so go slowly!

10. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcook the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli will result in a dull-colored, less flavorful soup. Aim for that bright green, slightly tender stage.
• Taste and adjust: The amount of salt needed will depend on your personal preference and the saltiness of your water. Taste and adjust accordingly.
• Creamier Texture: For an even creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of nutritional yeast to the Thermomix bowl during the blending process. This will also add a subtle cheesy flavor.
• Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like thyme or chives can elevate the flavor profile. Add a sprig of thyme to the Varoma steamer while cooking the broccoli or garnish with freshly chopped chives before serving. A pinch of nutmeg also works wonders.
• Boost the Flavor: Sautéing a chopped onion or garlic in a little olive oil before steaming the broccoli can add a depth of flavor to the soup.
• Thickening: If you accidentally add too much water, you can thicken the soup by adding a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water. Add it to the Thermomix bowl and cook for a minute or two until thickened.
• Roasting the Broccoli: For a richer, smokier flavor, roast the broccoli florets in the oven until lightly charred before steaming. This will enhance the natural sweetness of the broccoli.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this vibrant green soup hot, garnished with a swirl of vegan cream, a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds, or a few fresh broccoli florets. It’s also delicious with a crusty piece of bread for dipping.

Leftover broccoli soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

For longer storage, the soup can be frozen in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing and thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	25.5 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	2 g	10%
Total Fat	0.3 g	0%
Saturated Fat	0 g	0%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	32.3 mg	1%
Total Carbohydrate	5 g	1%
Dietary Fiber	1.9 g	7%
Sugars	1.3 g	5%
Protein	2.1 g	4%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Broccoli Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Thermomix bowl while blending for a spicy kick.
• Creamy Coconut Broccoli Soup: Replace some of the reserved cooking water with coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture and a hint of coconut flavor.
• Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Vegan): Add nutritional yeast and a small amount of vegan cheddar cheese alternative to the Thermomix bowl while blending for a cheesy flavor.
• Broccoli and Potato Soup: Add a cooked potato (about 100g) to the Thermomix bowl for a heartier, more filling soup.
• Seasonal Variations: Add other seasonal vegetables, such as roasted butternut squash or parsnips, for a unique flavor combination.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure that any toppings or accompaniments are also gluten-free.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this soup without a Thermomix?

A: Yes! You can steam the broccoli using a regular steamer basket over a pot of boiling water. Then, carefully transfer the steamed broccoli and some of the steaming water to a regular blender or food processor and blend until smooth.

Q: How can I make this soup even healthier?

A: To boost the nutritional value, consider adding a handful of spinach or kale to the Thermomix bowl during the blending process.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli florets?

A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. However, keep in mind that they may release more water during steaming, so you may need to adjust the amount of cooking water you add to the Thermomix bowl.

Q: How do I prevent the soup from being too bland?

A: Don’t be afraid to season generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of nutmeg, to enhance the flavor.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

A: Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Final Thoughts

This easy vegan broccoli soup, made effortlessly in your Thermomix, is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when treated with care, can create a dish that is both healthy and incredibly satisfying. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own by experimenting with different flavors and toppings. Don’t hesitate to share your creations and feedback – happy cooking!