This recipe makes approximately 6 generous servings, making it ideal for family dinners or for batch cooking — it reheats beautifully the following day, and many people insist it tastes even better the second time around as the flavors continue to develop.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Load the Slow Cooker
Place the broccoli florets, chopped onion, and minced garlic directly into the bowl of your slow cooker. No pre-cooking or sautéing required — this is a true dump-and-go recipe. Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the vegetables, making sure there is just enough liquid to cover the contents. If you prefer a thicker final soup, err on the side of slightly less broth; if you like a thinner, more drinkable consistency, you can add a touch more.
Step 2: Cook Low and Slow
Place the lid on the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the broccoli is completely tender and the onion is soft and translucent. The long, gentle cooking time allows all the vegetables to become fully flavored and perfectly soft, which makes blending them into a smooth, creamy soup much easier and more effective.
