Description
Delia Smith’s Broccoli and Stilton Soup combines fresh broccoli with the sharp, creamy flavor of Stilton cheese. The soup is blended to a smooth, velvety consistency, making it a comforting dish that showcases the richness of the cheese balanced by the subtle bitterness of broccoli.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of broccoli (approximately 500g, chopped into florets)
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 1 medium potato (peeled and chopped)
- 150g Stilton cheese (crumbled)
- 1.2 liters vegetable or chicken stock
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 150ml double cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Chop the broccoli into florets, peel and chop the potato, and finely chop the onion. Set these ingredients aside.
Step 2: Cook the Onions and Potatoes
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook gently for about 5 minutes, or until soft and translucent. Add the chopped potato and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add the Broccoli and Stock
Add the broccoli florets to the saucepan and pour in the vegetable or chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and tender.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Once the vegetables are cooked, remove the pan from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Using a hand blender or a regular blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, do it in batches and take care to allow steam to escape.
Step 5: Add the Stilton and Season
Return the soup to the heat and stir in the crumbled Stilton cheese. Allow the cheese to melt into the soup, stirring occasionally. Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in the double cream.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with extra crumbled Stilton, a drizzle of cream, or freshly ground black pepper for a finishing touch. Serve with crusty bread or croutons on the side.