Winter evenings call for warming and nutritious comfort meals, with soup becoming one of the season staples.
When it comes to classic winter recipes that can be thrown together in no time, there is nothing quite as simple as a quick broccoli soup.
Jamie Oliver takes this cold weather classic up a notch with the addition of some ricotta cheese, for extra creaminess and smoothness.
According to the instructions from Jamie Magazine, shared on the chef’s official website this recipe serves three and is ready in just 20 minutes.
For an additional decorative touch, garnish the soup with some mint leaves, or top it with your preferred toppings, or even some more cheese.
Jamie Oliver’s broccoli and cheese soup
Ingredients
One clove of garlic
Two sticks of celery
400g broccoli
Half a bunch of fresh mint
Olive oil
One litre organic chicken or vegetable stock
Ricotta cheese
Method
Peel and finely dice the garlic, then trim and chop the celery and broccoli into rough pieces. Pick the mint leaves, chopping most of them finely, while setting aside a few baby leaves for garnish.
Heat a little oil in a pan and sauté the garlic and celery for two to three minutes, until softened.
Add the broccoli and stock to the pan, then cook for a further five minutes. Once cooked, blend the mixture with a handful of mint leaves using a food processor until smooth.
Season to taste, then serve, topping with crumbled ricotta and garnishing with the reserved mint leaves.
Broccoli is a great source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system, helps in the absorption of iron, and promotes healthy skin.
It’s also a good source of both soluble and insoluble fibre. Fibre aids in digestion, promotes a healthy gut, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Broccoli can also contribute to weight management by promoting feelings of fullness and reducing overall calorie intake.
