Broccoli Soup With Cheese Toasts

Total Time: 40 mins Preparation Time: 15 mins Cook Time: 25 mins

Ingredients

• Servings: 8
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, coarsely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, coarsely chopped
• 2 bunches broccoli, stems and florets chopped separately into 1/2-inch pieces (about 3 1/4 pounds)
• 7 cups chicken stock
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated (about 1/2 cup) or 2 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, crumbled (about 1/2 cup)
• 8 thin slices bread (crusty baguette)

Recipe

• 1 in a large pot, over medium heat, stir in oil, onion, garlic, and broccoli stems, cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 15 minutes.
• 2 add half the florets, stock and salt, cover and bring to a boil.
• 3 remove from heat, stir in milk and cayenne, and puree using an immersion blender or in a standard blender in batches.
• 4 add remaining broccoli florets and simmer until tender, about 10 minutes.
• 5 meanwhile, preheat broiler.
• 6 divide cheese among bread slices; toast under broiler until melted and golden, less than 1 minute.
• 7 ladle soup into individual serving bowls and top with a cheese toast.