Simple Brussels Sprout Soup

This Simple Brussels Sprout Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, this soup showcases the unique flavor of brussels sprouts in an easy-to-make recipe. With just a handful of ingredients and ready in only 15 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Enjoy the vibrant green color and creamy texture, making it not just nutritious but also visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes from start to finish, this soup is perfect for those busy days when you need something delicious fast.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from brussels sprouts and peas, this soup supports a healthy lifestyle.
• Versatile Flavor: The blend of garlic, onion, and vegetable stock enhances the natural taste of brussels sprouts, offering a unique twist compared to traditional preparations.
• Dairy-Free & Vegan: Suitable for various diets, this soup is completely dairy-free and vegan-friendly without sacrificing creaminess.
• Easy Cleanup: One pot cooking means less mess in the kitchen, making it easier to enjoy your meal without the hassle of extensive cleaning.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Simple Brussels Sprout Soup, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment not only simplifies the process but ensures better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Medium-sized pot
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Essential for pureeing the soup to achieve a smooth consistency that elevates the dish.
• Medium-sized pot: Perfect for cooking all ingredients evenly while providing enough space for blending flavors.
• Chopping board: Keeps your workspace organized while making chopping vegetables safe and efficient.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 12.35 ounces brussels sprouts (trimmed weight)
• ¾ cup petits pois (3.53 oz frozen)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 1-2 garlic cloves (finely chopped)

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons butter (any)

For Flavoring

• 3 cups vegetable stock
• Pepper to taste (white or black)

How to Make Simple Brussels Sprout Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

1. Trim the brussels sprouts by cutting off the ends and removing loose leaves.
2. Weigh and rinse the sprouts.
3. Place them in a blender and pulse until finely shredded.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

1. In a medium-sized pot, heat up the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped garlic and onion.
3. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened, stirring often.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. Add the shredded brussels sprouts to the pot.
2. Stir well and cook for one minute.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Pour in the vegetable stock.
2. Add pepper to taste.
3. Cover, bring to boil, then lower heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Peas

1. Add the petits pois to warm through for another minute.

Step 6: Blend and Serve

1. Remove from heat and puree the soup using your blender.
2. Stir in butter; adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Simple Brussels Sprout Soup!

How to Serve Simple Brussels Sprout Soup

Serving your Simple Brussels Sprout Soup can elevate the meal experience. Here are some creative ideas to enjoy this nutritious and delightful soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough is perfect for dipping into the soup, adding texture and a satisfying crunch.

Top with Croutons

• Homemade or store-bought croutons add an extra layer of flavor and crunch. Consider using seasoned croutons for added zest.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness that complements the soup’s earthy flavors.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the richness of the soup, providing a luxurious finish.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette balances the warmth of the soup and adds a refreshing element to your meal.

How to Perfect Simple Brussels Sprout Soup

To ensure your Simple Brussels Sprout Soup is outstanding every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh brussels sprouts and veggies whenever possible. Fresh ingredients enhance flavor significantly.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving. Feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.

• Experiment with Blending: For different textures, blend until smooth or leave some chunks for added body in your soup.

• Add Protein: For a heartier version, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas into the mix before blending.

Best Side Dishes for Simple Brussels Sprout Soup

Pairing your Simple Brussels Sprout Soup with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic pairing adds gooey cheese and crispy bread that contrasts nicely with the soup’s smoothness.

2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers protein and a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide additional nutrients and their natural sweetness rounds out the flavors.

4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or beans make for a filling accompaniment alongside your soup.

5. Pita Chips: Crispy pita chips seasoned with herbs serve as an excellent crunchy snack that complements the soup’s creamy texture.

6. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These buttery biscuits bring a savory taste to your meal while being perfect for dipping into the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Simple Brussels Sprout Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final result. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Overcooking the vegetables – Cooking the garlic and onion too long can lead to bitterness. Sauté them just until softened for a sweeter flavor.
• Skipping the seasoning – Not adding enough pepper or other seasonings can make your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring texture – If you blend your soup too much, it can become overly smooth. Aim for a creamy texture while still having some small bits for interest.
• Using low-quality stock – The broth is the base of your soup, so using a poor-quality stock can ruin it. Opt for a good vegetable stock for the best taste.
• Neglecting freshness – Using wilted or old brussels sprouts will impact flavor and nutrition. Always choose fresh, firm sprouts for your soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Simple Brussels Sprout Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Simple Brussels Sprout Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in an oven-safe pot for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Simple Brussels Sprout Soup.

Can I use fresh brussels sprouts instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh brussels sprouts! Just trim and shred them as directed in the recipe.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Simple Brussels Sprout Soup is perfect for meal prep since it stores well in the fridge or freezer.

How can I customize Simple Brussels Sprout Soup?

You can add spices like nutmeg or herbs like thyme for extra flavor. Experiment with different toppings such as croutons or seeds!

What is the best way to serve this soup?

This soup is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad.

Final Thoughts

Simple Brussels Sprout Soup is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrition. This versatile recipe allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, making it perfect for any lunch or dinner. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful taste!