Lunch: Creamy Broccoli-Cheese Soup

Recipe by Sidney Fry, MS, RD We like our version extra chunky, so we only puree about a third of the broccoli mixture in step 3. For a thinner, smoother consistency, add more soup to the blender.

This recipe includes fertility superfoods such as:

Broccoli, Brown Rice

Health and fertility benefits of Creamy Broccoli-Cheese Soup

Broccoli is one of the non-starchy vegetables that has a very low glycemic index (GI), which is beneficial for reducing blood sugar levels. Broccoli is also a source of DIM (Diindolymethane). Diindolymethane is very effective in reducing the testosterone levels in the body, an action that would automatically curb male dominant features and regulate the estrogen levels in the system. Brown rice is a natural source of Inositol, a derivative of Vitamin B (which is often prescribed in the form of supplements for women with PCOS). Inositol can effectively control the symptoms of PCOS by reducing insulin resistance and improving insulin sensitivity.

Ingredients

4 cups unsalted chicken stock, divided
1/2 cup uncooked instant brown rice
1 cup 1% low-fat milk
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup chopped onion
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/4 pounds broccoli florets, coarsely chopped
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
5 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided (about 1 1/4 cups)

Instructions

Combine 2 cups stock and rice in a small saucepan over medium-high heat; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 25 minutes. Remove from heat; let stand 5 minutes. Place rice mixture and milk in a blender. Remove center piece of blender lid (to allow steam to escape); secure blender lid on blender. Place a clean towel over opening in blender lid (to avoid splatters). Blend until smooth.
Heat a large saucepan over medium heat. Add oil to pan; swirl to coat. Add onion; sauté 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds. Add broccoli and salt; cook 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add remaining 2 cups stock; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes or just until broccoli is tender. Add rice mixture; simmer 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Place 2 cups soup in blender; process until smooth. Return pureed soup to pan. Add pepper and 4 ounces cheese; stir until cheese melts. Divide soup evenly among 6 bowls; sprinkle evenly with remaining 1 ounce cheese.

Add a review for Creamy Broccoli-Cheese Soup