Here’s a simple and comforting recipe for Broccoli Cheddar Soup using your ingredients:

Ingredients:
– 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into florets
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of chicken broth or vegetable broth
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for added flavor)
– 2 tablespoons flour (optional, to thicken the soup)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for extra flavor)
– Croutons or extra shredded cheese (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

2. Cook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

3. Blend the Soup (optional for a creamy texture): Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step or blend just half of the mixture.

4. Thicken the Soup (optional): If you want a thicker soup, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the pot, then whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour. Stir for 1-2 minutes to cook off the flour taste, then slowly add the broth mixture back into the pot, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer again for a few minutes.

5. Add the Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, a little at a time, until the cheese is completely melted and the soup becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Add the nutmeg if desired for a hint of warmth.

6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese, croutons, or even a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Tips:
– You can make the soup even heartier by adding a cup of cooked potatoes or using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
– For extra flavor, try adding a bit of mustard or Worcestershire sauce.

This soup is perfect for a cozy, comforting meal! Would you like to modify anything in this recipe or try a variation?

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a nutritious and wholesome meal that provides many health benefits for pregnant women, women, children, and men. Here’s how it can support each group:

Benefits for Pregnant Women:
– High in Folate: Broccoli is an excellent source of folate, which is essential during pregnancy to support fetal development and prevent birth defects.
– Rich in Calcium: The cheddar cheese and cream provide calcium, which is important for the development of the baby’s bones and teeth, as well as for maintaining the mother’s bone health.
– Protein for Baby’s Growth: The cheddar cheese and broth contribute to protein intake, which is crucial for building the baby’s muscles and tissues.
– Vitamin C: Broccoli is packed with vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system, which is important during pregnancy when immunity may be lowered.

Benefits for Women:
– Supports Immune Health: The combination of broccoli (vitamin C) and garlic helps enhance the immune system, reducing the risk of infections.
– Promotes Digestive Health: Broccoli is rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps prevent constipation, a common issue during pregnancy and throughout adulthood.
– Bone Health: The calcium from the cheese and heavy cream helps support strong bones and teeth, which is especially beneficial for women as they age.
– Heart Health: The healthy fats in the cheese and cream, combined with the antioxidants in broccoli, support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Benefits for Children:
– Supports Growth and Development: The protein and calcium in the cheddar cheese are important for children’s growth, muscle development, and bone health.
– Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The vitamin C and other nutrients in broccoli support a healthy immune system and overall development.
– Brain Health: The nutrients in the soup, including vitamin C, calcium, and the fats from cheese, contribute to brain function and cognitive development.

Benefits for Men:
– Muscle Support: The protein from the cheese and broth helps men maintain and repair muscles, making it a good option after workouts or for active individuals.
– Supports Immune Function: The high levels of vitamin C from broccoli and garlic support the immune system and help protect against illness.
– Heart Health: The fiber in broccoli and healthy fats in the cream and cheese support healthy cholesterol levels and promote good cardiovascular health.
– Bone Health: Calcium from the cream and cheese helps in maintaining strong bones, which is important for overall health as men age.

General Health Benefits for All:
– Antioxidants: Broccoli is rich in antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
– Easy to Digest: The soup is smooth and easy on the stomach, making it suitable for people of all ages, including those with digestive sensitivities.

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a well-rounded, nutrient-packed dish that provides essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats to support overall health and wellness for everyone in the family. Would you like any tips on adjusting the recipe for specific dietary needs or preferences?