Description
A warm and comforting bowl of creamy Panera-style Broccoli Cheddar Soup made with fresh broccoli, plant-based cheddar cheese, and smoky turkey bacon, perfect for cozy meals on chilly days.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Protein and Dairy
- 4 slices smoky turkey bacon
- 1 1/2 cups plant-based cheddar cheese, shredded
Liquids and Broth
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
Thickening Agents
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
Spices and Seasonings
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Your Vegetables: Chop fresh broccoli florets, carrots, and onions into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and create a fresh, subtly sweet soup base.
- Cook the Turkey Bacon and Vegetables: In a large pot, cook the smoky turkey bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside. Use the rendered fat to sauté the onions, carrots, and garlic, stirring occasionally until softened and fragrant.
- Simmer the Broccoli and Broth: Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
- Thicken the Soup: Whisk together cornstarch with a bit of cold water and natural gelling agent. Gradually stir this mixture into the simmering soup, stirring continuously until it thickens to the desired consistency.
- Melt in the Plant-Based Cheddar: Turn off the heat and slowly add shredded plant-based cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth to achieve a creamy texture.
- Add Final Touches: Return the crispy turkey bacon to the pot. Season with apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for the best texture and vibrant color.
- Simmer vegetables gently to retain their natural sweetness.
- Shred plant-based cheddar cheese fresh before adding for better melting.
- Add the cornstarch and natural gelling agent mixture slowly to avoid lumps.
- A splash of apple cider vinegar balances richness and brightens flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, plant-based cheddar, turkey bacon, creamy soup, comforting soup
