Panera-Style Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Savor the creamy warmth of Panera-style Broccoli Cheddar Soup, made with nutrient-dense organic ingredients and grass-fed dairy.

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Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp organic grass-fed butter
  • 1 cup organic yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups organic broccoli florets, chopped
  • 1 cup organic carrots, julienned or shredded
  • 4 cups organic vegetable stock
  • 1 cup organic whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups aged sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tbsp arrowroot starch, mixed with 3 tbsp cold water
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp cracked black pepper

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What you'll need

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, melt the grass-fed butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent and soft.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the organic vegetable stock and add the chopped broccoli florets and julienned carrots.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 12-15 minutes until the broccoli and carrots are tender.
  6. Stir in the arrowroot slurry and simmer for 1-2 minutes until the soup thickens slightly.
  7. Stir in the whole milk and heavy cream; bring back to a very gentle simmer (do not boil).
  8. Remove the pot from the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time until completely melted and smooth, then season with salt and pepper before serving.

FAQ

Why use organic ingredients in this soup?

Using organic ingredients ensures that your dish is free from synthetic pesticides, hormones, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), making it a healthier choice.

Is the heavy cream necessary for the recipe?

While not essential, heavy cream adds richness to the soup. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use coconut cream or almond milk as a substitution without changing the overall clean-eating ethos of your dish.

Can I substitute cheese if I don't eat dairy?

Yes, for a dairy-free option, you can replace the cheddar with nutritional yeast flakes or cashew cheese for a plant-based alternative that adds a creamy texture and nutty flavor to your soup.

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