What's For Dinner: Broccoli Soup

February often feels like a quiet sigh after the bustle of the holidays. The days are still short, and the world outside seems to be holding its breath, waiting for spring. For many of us, it's a season of turning inward, finding comfort in the small, steady rhythms of home. I find myself seeking moments of peace, wrapped in a blanket, perhaps with a good book, and certainly with something warm and nourishing in hand. It’s less about doing, and more about simply *being*. This year, I'm particularly grateful for these quieter days. They feel like a gentle invitation to pause and appreciate the simple goodness around us – the warmth of a home, the kindness of a friend, the sustenance of a well-loved meal. It's during these times that a truly comforting bowl of soup feels like a little blessing, a quiet conversation between my soul and a spoon. So, when the thought of dinner arises on a chilly evening, my mind often drifts to something that promises warmth and a gentle embrace. Broccoli soup, in its humble green glory, speaks to that need perfectly. It’s not flashy, it’s not demanding; it simply *is*. A bowl of this creamy goodness feels like a soft pause button in a world that often rushes us along. It's a gentle reminder to slow down, to breathe, and to receive the nourishment offered.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
About 4 cups broccoli florets (from 1-2 heads), stems peeled and chopped
4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth, if you prefer)
1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy; whole milk for creaminess is lovely)
½ cup heavy cream (optional, but oh so comforting)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
A pinch of nutmeg (a truly underrated companion to broccoli)
Optional garnishes: a sprinkle of cheese, a swirl of cream, or a few croutons

Instructions

**Begin Gently:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, warm the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and let it soften, stirring occasionally, until it’s translucent and fragrant – about 5-7 minutes. It's a sweet start, building a comforting foundation.
**Add Aromatics:** Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute until you can truly smell its inviting scent. We’re not rushing here; we’re allowing the flavors to awaken.
**Introduce the Green:** Add the chopped broccoli stems and florets to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is very tender. This is where the magic really begins.
**Creamy Transformation:** Carefully remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until it reaches your desired smoothness. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot. Be mindful of the hot liquid.
**Finishing Touches:** Stir in the milk and heavy cream (if using). Season with salt, pepper, and that tender pinch of nutmeg. Return the pot to low heat and warm through, being careful not to boil. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This final step is about perfecting the embrace.
**Serve and Savor:** Ladle the warm soup into bowls. Garnish as you wish, or simply enjoy it in its pure, heartfelt simplicity. Take a moment before you dive in. Breathe.

There’s a quiet beauty in a meal that asks for nothing but presence. As February slowly unfurls, bringing with it hints of hope for renewal, I find myself holding onto these moments of gratitude for warmth, for sustenance, and for the simple gift of a quiet evening. This broccoli soup, for me, embodies those very things. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of life’s demands, we can carve out spaces for peace and nourishment, both for our bodies and our souls. What small, grounding traditions are bringing you comfort and a sense of gratitude during these quiet winter days?

Photo by MChe Lee on Unsplash

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