Broccoli Soup

I saw on Instagram the comparison between meat and broccoli and how much protein they each have.  The point was to show that broccoli is quite high in protein and a good alternative to meat.  Naturally, someone pointed out that you would have to eat A LOT of broccoli to make them equal.  I have found a way.  You’re welcome.

Turns out, you can consume A LOT of broccoli when you puree it.  And add cheese. I take no responsibility though for the results.  Like the time I first shared my favorite protein powder with my friend, or as she likes to call it, “The time you tried to kill me.”

We always share our discoveries with each other.  Essential oils, toothpaste, deodorant, cleaning supplies, new vegan food items, etc. So when I found a protein powder that I really liked, I made her a smoothie with it.   Unfortunately, I neglected to read the directions thoroughly which clearly stated: For first time users, consume only 1/4 of the recommended serving. Apparently, there is a lot of fiber and probiotics in it.  Oops.  My bad.

I don’t know why she complains about it though, I mean, she survived.

Or the time I may have done something similar to my father with some green juice.

Since he is a very healthy eater, and doesn’t consume sugar of any kind, it eliminates a lot of pre-made drinks for him which have “hidden” ingredients.   I talked him into trying a homemade green juice for a  mid-morning snack.  It also had lots of fiber in it.  That was the last we saw of him till right around dinner time.

Again, he survived, so I’m not sure what he is still complaining about.

Some people’s systems just can’t take a punch.  Who knew?

Ingredients:

• 8 cups chopped broccoli plus 1 additional cup for garnish (Use fresh or frozen..no judgement here)
• 3/4 cup onion, diced
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 Tablespoon butter

Directions:

1. If using fresh broccoli, chop into bite-sized pieces and steam till tender.  If you are using frozen, cook according to package directions, then drain well.
2. Meanwhile, sauté onions over medium low heat in butter till tender, but not carmelized.  The goal is to cook them thoroughly, but not to brown them.  This will take 10 minutes or so, but don’t be tempted to turn the heat up.
3. When the onions and broccoli are cooked, cool them down, then put in the vitamix (or other high speed blender) with the vegetable broth, and process till it reaches the desired consistency.  You may have to do this in 2 separate batches, so divide the broth as well.  You can always add extra if you want a thinner soup.
4. Reheat on stovetop. Garnish with cheese of choice, or stir some cheese in during the reheating process.  If you are using vegan cheese, which tends not to melt the same way non-vegan cheese does, I would add it into the blender with the broccoli and onions.

Enjoy!