Mary Berry Broccoli and Stilton Soup Recipe | Foodiens

There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to soothe the soul, and mary berry broccoli and stilton soup is the epitome of comfort. With its velvety texture and the bold, tangy flavor of Stilton, this soup is a staple in British kitchens and a favorite among home cooks. This recipe delivers a reliable, mouthwatering result with tested proportions and clear techniques, so you can recreate this classic at home. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner, this soup will become a go-to for chilly evenings.

Mary Berry Broccoli and Stilton Soup Recipe Overview

This recipe is designed for ease without sacrificing depth of flavor. It relies on pantry staples and a single pot for most of the work, making cleanup a breeze. The magic happens when the sharp, salty Stilton melts into the pureed broccoli, creating a luxurious, restaurant-quality soup.

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Yield and Servings

• Serves: 4 to 6 people
• Yield: Approximately 6 cups (1.5 liters)

Core Takeaways:

• This soup serves 4-6 people and takes about 40 minutes total.
• The recipe uses simple ingredients and requires minimal active cooking time.

Ingredient Checklist with Exact Measurements

For the best flavor, use fresh broccoli and a good-quality Stilton. Exact measurements ensure the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredient	Metric	Imperial
Broccoli	500 g	1 lb 2 oz
Stilton cheese	150 g	5.3 oz
Onion	1 medium	1 medium
Garlic	2 cloves	2 cloves
Butter	50 g	3.5 tbsp
Olive oil	1 tbsp	1 tbsp
Potato	1 medium	1 medium
Vegetable stock	1 liter	4 cups
Heavy cream	100 ml	1/2 cup
Salt	1 tsp	1 tsp
Black pepper	1/2 tsp	1/2 tsp
Nutmeg	1/4 tsp	1/4 tsp

Core Takeaways:

• Use fresh broccoli and good-quality Stilton for the best flavor.
• Exact measurements ensure the perfect balance of flavors.

Essential Kitchen Tools and Equipment

You don't need a kitchen full of gadgets to make this soup, but a few key tools make the process smooth and safe.

Basic Tools

• Large pot or Dutch oven: For sautéing and simmering.
• Blender or food processor: To achieve a silky-smooth texture.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring.
• Chef's knife and cutting board: For prepping vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy.

Optional Equipment

• Immersion blender: Makes blending easier and less messy.
• Ladle: For serving.

Core Takeaways:

• A large pot and blender are essential for this recipe.
• An immersion blender can make the process easier and less messy.

Step-by-Step Culinary Instructions

Follow these steps for a flawless pot of soup.

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add Vegetables and Stock: Add the chopped broccoli, diced potato, and vegetable stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the broccoli and potato are tender.
3. Blend the Soup: Remove from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot, or carefully transfer in batches to a stand blender. Blend until completely smooth.
4. Add Stilton and Cream: Return the soup to low heat. Crumble in the Stilton and stir until melted. Add the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir well and heat through, but do not boil.
5. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with reserved broccoli florets or extra crumbled Stilton.

Core Takeaways:

• Sautéing the onion and garlic builds a flavorful base.
• Add Stilton gradually to control the intensity of the flavor.

Chef's Secret Tips for Best Results

These small adjustments make a big difference in the final bowl.

Enhancing Flavor

• Toast the nutmeg: A fresh grate of nutmeg adds warmth.
• Reserve some broccoli: Keep a few small florets aside, blanch them, and use as a garnish for texture.
• Quality Stilton: Use a creamy, not too crumbly, Stilton for easier melting.

Texture Tips

• Don't over-blend: Stop as soon as the soup is smooth to avoid a gluey texture.
• Adjust thickness: If too thick, add a splash more stock. If too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes.
• A splash of cream: A final swirl of cream can mellow the Stilton's sharpness.

Core Takeaways:

• Reserve some broccoli florets for garnish to add texture.
• A splash of cream can mellow the Stilton's sharpness.

Ingredient Substitutions and Storage Advice

This recipe is flexible, and leftovers store beautifully.

Substitutions

• Stilton: Gorgonzola or Roquefort can replace Stilton in a pinch.
• Broccoli: Cauliflower works well for a different twist.
• Vegetable stock: Chicken stock can be used for a non-vegetarian version.
• Heavy cream: Half-and-half or whole milk can be used for a lighter soup.

Storage and Freezing

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
• Reheating: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Do not boil.

Core Takeaways:

• Gorgonzola or Roquefort can replace Stilton in a pinch.
• This soup freezes well for up to 3 months.

Ready to warm up with a bowl of Mary Berry's broccoli and Stilton soup? Gather your ingredients and follow our step-by-step guide for a restaurant-quality meal at home. Don't forget to share your results in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mary Berry's broccoli and Stilton soup?

Mary Berry's broccoli and Stilton soup is a classic British soup that combines tender broccoli florets with the bold, tangy flavor of Stilton blue cheese. It's known for its velvety smooth texture and rich, comforting taste, making it a popular choice for chilly evenings. The recipe typically includes onions, potatoes, and vegetable or chicken stock, which are simmered with broccoli, then blended and enriched with Stilton and a touch of cream.

Can I use frozen broccoli for Mary Berry's broccoli and Stilton soup?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in this soup. It's a convenient alternative when fresh broccoli isn't available. However, keep in mind that frozen broccoli may release more water during cooking, so you might need to adjust the amount of stock to achieve the desired consistency. Simply add the frozen broccoli directly to the pot when the recipe calls for fresh, and simmer until tender. The flavor and texture will still be delicious.

What can I use instead of Stilton in broccoli soup?

If you don't have Stilton or prefer a milder blue cheese, you can substitute it with other blue cheeses like Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or Danish blue. For a non-blue cheese alternative, try a sharp cheddar or a creamy cheese like Brie, though the flavor profile will be different. If you want to avoid blue cheese entirely, you can omit it and add a pinch of nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy kick, but the soup won't have the same distinctive taste.

How do I make Mary Berry's broccoli and Stilton soup creamy without cream?

To make the soup creamy without adding cream, you can blend in a cooked potato (which is often already in the recipe) or add a handful of cashews that have been soaked and blended. Another option is to use a splash of milk or a dollop of Greek yogurt after blending. For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk. The key is to blend the soup thoroughly until smooth and velvety.

Can I freeze Mary Berry's broccoli and Stilton soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup, but there are some considerations. The texture of the broccoli may become slightly softer upon thawing, and the blue cheese flavor can intensify. To freeze, cool the soup completely, then transfer to airtight containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally. If the soup separates, blend it again with a little stock or milk to restore smoothness.

What are the best toppings for broccoli and Stilton soup?

Popular toppings for broccoli and Stilton soup include crumbled Stilton or other blue cheese, a swirl of cream or crème fraîche, toasted nuts (like walnuts or almonds), croutons, or crispy bacon bits. For a fresh touch, add chopped chives or a drizzle of olive oil. These toppings add texture and enhance the flavor, making the soup even more satisfying.