Mary Berry's Broccoli and Stilton Soup

Mary Berry's Broccoli and Stilton Soup is a classic British recipe that combines the rich flavors of Stilton cheese with the freshness of broccoli. This soup is not only delicious but also packs a nutritious punch, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome meal. The recipe is simple to make, with readily available ingredients, and is ideal for both novice and experienced cooks.

Ingredients for the Broccoli and Stilton Soup

• Butter: 1-2 tablespoons
• Shallots or Onion: Finely chopped
• Chicken or Vegetable Stock: 400-800 ml
• Milk: 300-600 ml
• Broccoli: 400-800g, cut into florets
• Stilton Cheese: 100-200g, crumbled
• Nutmeg: A pinch, for garnish

Preparation Instructions for Making the Broccoli and Stilton Soup:

1. Cooking Shallots/Onions: Start by melting butter in a large saucepan and cook the shallots or onions until they are brown and tender.
2. Preparing Broccoli: Cut the broccoli stalks into small pieces and add them to the saucepan. Sauté for a minute, then add the stock and milk. Bring to a simmer and cook until the stalks begin to soften.
3. Adding Cheese and Florets: Once the stalks are nearly tender, add the broccoli florets and most of the Stilton cheese, saving some for garnish. Continue simmering until the cheese has melted and the florets are tender, which should take about 5 minutes.
4. Blending the Soup: After allowing the soup to cool slightly, blend it until smooth using an immersion blender or a countertop blender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serving: Serve the soup in bowls, topped with the remaining Stilton cheese and a pinch of nutmeg for garnish.

Storage and Reheating for Broccoli and Stilton Soup

• Refrigeration: Cool the soup and store it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of water or stock if the soup seems too thick after reheating.

Nutritional Information

The soup is relatively high in protein and calcium, thanks to the Stilton cheese and broccoli. A typical serving provides around 286-390 calories, with significant amounts of fat, carbohydrates, fiber, and protein.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make the soup thicker or creamier? To adjust the thickness, you can blend a portion of the soup or add more stock or milk as needed.
• Is it possible to make the soup ahead of time? Yes, the soup can be prepared in advance and reheated when needed.
• What type of Stilton cheese is best for this recipe? Classic blue Stilton is recommended for the best flavor.
• Can I add other herbs or spices? Yes, herbs like thyme or parsley can be added to enhance the flavor.
• Can I use a different type of cheese? While Stilton is traditional, you can experiment with other blue cheeses or sharp cheddars.

Mary Berry's Broccoli and Stilton Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for a cozy meal. It's easy to prepare, nutritious, and offers a delightful combination of flavors. Serve it with some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.