Cream of Broccoli Soup: A Comforting Classic for Every Generation
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of rich, creamy soup to warm you from the inside out. Cream of broccoli soup, with its velvety texture and mild, earthy flavor, has been a household favorite for decades. Whether enjoyed as a cozy lunch, a comforting dinner starter, or even a nostalgic throwback to childhood meals, this classic soup remains a timeless staple in kitchens everywhere.
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A Brief History of Creamy SoupsCream-based soups have long been a favorite in American kitchens, particularly throughout the 20th century. With the rise of home cooking, canned soup convenience, and the increasing availability of kitchen appliances like blenders, creamy soups became a go-to option for easy and delicious meals. Cream of broccoli soup, in particular, gained popularity in the 1970s and ’80s, when home cooks sought out simple yet flavorful dishes to feed their families.


Why We Love It
There’s something inherently comforting about cream of broccoli soup. It strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition, packing in vitamins and fiber while delivering a creamy, satisfying texture. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—serve it with crusty bread, top it with cheese, or add a hint of spice for a unique twist.


How to Make Classic Cream of Broccoli Soup
​If you’re craving this nostalgic dish, making it from scratch is easier than you think. Here’s a simple recipe to bring the magic of this beloved soup to your table.

You will need the following ingredients:
butter
flour
onions
milk
salt
pepper
broccoli
cheddar cheese
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Cream of Broccoli Soup


2 tbsp butter or margarine
¼ cup all purpose flour
3 cups milk
¼ tsp Watkins Himalayan salt
pinch of Wtkins Black Pepper
1 cup of cooked broccoli
¼ cup diced onion
shredded cheddar cheese.


Melt butter in saucepan over medium low heat. Add onions and cook until golden brown. Gradually stir in flour and cook 3 minutes. Gradually add milk and cook, stirring constantly until sauce is thick and smooth. Add salt and pepper. Cut cooked broccoli into smaller pieces. Add broccoli to soup and milk will. Serve garnished with shredded cheddar cheese.

How to Make a Delicious Navy Bean Soup​
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Making navy bean soup is simple and rewarding. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried navy beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups vegetable or Watkins Chicken  Soup & Gravy Base (prepared)
• 1 smoked ham hock (optional for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Watkins Organic Thyme
• 1 Watkins Organic Bay leaf
• Watkins Salt and  Watkins pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. If using dried navy beans, soak them overnight in water, then drain and rinse.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the broth, then add navy beans, thyme, bay leaf, and the ham hock (if using).
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender.
6. Remove the bay leaf and ham hock. If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm with crusty bread.
   
   
   

Variations and Add-Ons

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham hock and add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream for a richer texture.
• Herbaceous Flavor: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for extra freshness.
  
  
  

Navy bean soup is a classic dish that never goes out of style. It’s hearty, nutritious, and easy to customize based on your preferences. Whether you make it as a comforting meal for yourself or to share with loved ones, this soup is sure to warm both your stomach and your heart.
So, why not give it a try? Grab a pot, some navy beans, and let the magic of slow-cooked flavors fill your kitchen!