Broccoli and Jerusalem Artichoke Cream Soup

This delightful and creamy soup combines the earthy flavors of broccoli and Jerusalem artichoke, creating a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. The rich, smooth texture is achieved by blending fresh vegetables with savory herbs. The addition of cheese adds a luxurious creaminess that enhances the flavor profile. This soup pairs well with a variety of garnishes, such as toasted seeds or fresh herbs, and can be served as a starter or a main course. The recipe is simple and straightforward, allowing you to bring out the best of these fresh ingredients. With just a hint of nutmeg and lemon pepper, it offers a subtle spiciness balanced by the natural sweetness of the vegetables. Cooking this soup is a great way to enjoy seasonal produce while indulging in a bit of culinary creativity. It’s suitable for vegetarians and can be easily adapted for those with dietary restrictions. Whether you're looking to warm up on a chilly day or serve a crowd-pleasing dish at a gathering, this soup is sure to impress. Finally, the use of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme gives it an aromatic depth that's simply irresistible.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 400 g broccoli
• 200 g Jerusalem artichoke
• 1 liter vegetable broth
• 1 red onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 100 g fresh cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Spices and Herbs

• 1 sprig rosemary
• 1 sprig thyme
• 1 pinch grated nutmeg
• Lemon pepper, to taste

Preparation Time

Total: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by finely chopping the red onion and garlic cloves.
2. Heat the olive oil in a pot and add the chopped onion, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Sauté these ingredients for about 7 minutes until they are fragrant and softened.
3. While the mixture is cooking, peel the Jerusalem artichokes and cut them into small pieces.
4. Divide the broccoli into smaller florets for even cooking.
5. Add the vegetable broth into the pot, followed by the cut Jerusalem artichokes and broccoli florets. Season with a pinch of lemon pepper.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for approximately 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Allow the soup to cool slightly before blending. Carefully transfer the mixture into a blender and blend until smooth.
8. Pass the blended mixture through a fine sieve to remove any remaining solids, resulting in a smooth liquid.
9. Return the strained liquid to the pot and stir in the fresh cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup.
10. Blend the mixture one more time for extra smoothness, adding a pinch of grated nutmeg for flavor enhancement.
11. Reheat gently if necessary and adjust seasoning to taste with salt or more lemon pepper.
12. For serving, garnish the soup with thin slices of roasted Jerusalem artichoke, adding a bit of texture.
13. Enjoy your warm, creamy soup with a fresh slice of crusty bread on the side.
14. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also add a vibrant finish.

Tips

• Substitute fresh cheese with cream cheese or mascarpone for a richer flavor.
• Use a hand blender for convenience if a countertop blender is unavailable.
• For a vegan alternative, replace cheese with a non-dairy cream substitute.
• Add some toasted pumpkin seeds as a crunchy garnish.

Nutritions

Calories: 240 per serving

Protein: 7 g

Fats: 14 g

Carbs: 22 g

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Nutty Flavor: Incorporate roasted almond flakes for added texture.
• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the soup with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
• Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of truffle oil for an added touch of luxury.
• Consider serving with a glass of white wine to complement the flavors.

Best Places

• Café de Flore - Renowned for its classic Parisian charm and delightful soups. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
• Laduree - Offers gourmet soups in a luxurious setting. Location: 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
• Balthazar - Known for its French fare, including delectable soups. Location: 80 Spring St, New York, USA.
• The Savoy Grill - Offers a sophisticated dining experience with a variety of soups. Location: The Savoy Hotel, London, UK.
• Sant Pau - A culinary gem with delicious soup offerings. Location: Nou, 10, Sant Pol de Mar, Barcelona, Spain.
• Gjelina - A rustic eatery with a focus on seasonal soups. Location: 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, USA.
• Le Bernardin - Famous for its exquisite seafood and soup dishes. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.
• Noma - Offers an innovative Nordic soup experience. Location: Refshalevej 96, Copenhagen, Denmark.
• Osteria Francescana - Known for its creative Italian soups. Location: Via Stella, 22, Modena, Italy.
• The French Laundry - Celebrated for its elegant soup dishes. Location: 6640 Washington St, Yountville, USA.