Mean Green Broccoli Cheddar Soup

I am beyond done with this weather. I think you all know that. But, until then, I'll continue making soup.

A couple weeks ago, we made Broccoli Cheddar Soup, a recipe I received from a co-worker. Last week it was crock pot potato soup from Callie's blog. This Friday, it'll be Butternut Squash soup. See a pattern? Soups tend to be good Friday night meals during lent.

The broccoli cheddar soup was pretty tasty. I liked it more than Brian did, but I like vegetables way more than he does. This recipe happened to include a vegetable I had never cooked with before: leeks. I couldn't even tell you what they taste like, but I liked knowing I was getting two hearty vegetables in this soup.

You puree this soup in a blender, which I thought would be a major chore. It actually wasn't too bad at all and according to the recipe, adding the cheese in the blender ensures that it will melt evenly and won't clump. 

Oh, and don't let the green color of this soup scare you. It did me at first, but I got over that quickly.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup
1 Tbsp. unsalted butter
1 lb. leeks, white and light green parts only, halved lengthwise, sliced thin, and washed thoroughly
1 bunch broccoli, florets cut into 1-inch pieces, stems trimmed and sliced thin
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup water
3/4 cup fat-free evaporated milk
1 cup shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
Salt and Pepper

1. Melt the butter in a large pot, over medium heat. Add the leeks and broccoli stems and cook until softened, about 8 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

2. Stir in the broth and water and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the broccoli stems are soft, about 8 minutes. Stir in the broccoli florets and continue to simmer, covered, until tender, about 5 minutes.

3. Puree the soup with the milk, cheddar and mustard in a blender, in batches, until the cheese is melted and the soup is very smooth. Return the soup to a clean pot and cook gently over medium-low hear until the soup is hot. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve.

Broccoli & Leeks

Happy soup:) Luv me some pepper.