Perth Naturopathic Nutrition Expert Perth Western Australia | Women`s Health | Weight Loss | Detox Programs | Counselling

A warming soup rich in calcium can help soothe tense muscles and encourage sound sleep. Most people know that calcium is important for bone health and strength but did you know that broccoli is a good source of this important mineral? Broccoli also provides vitamin C, some iron and potassium as well as dietary fibre. Broccoli also helps protect against cancer due to the indoles it contains. Celeriac gives a rich celery-like flavour and provides dietary fibre too. Fibre is important to prevent constipation and bowel cancer.

Serves: 4 as an entrée or light meal   Prep: 15 mins   Cooking: 40 mins

1 tbs extra virgin olive oil
1 large brown onion, chopped
1 large garlic clove, chopped
1 tsp caraway seeds
300g celeriac, peeled, finely chopped
600g broccoli, cut into small pieces
500ml (2 cups) salt reduced (or preferably home-made) chicken or vegetable stock
750ml (3 cups) reduced fat milk, or calcium enriched oat milk or soy milk
Freshly ground black pepper
2 tbs finely grated parmesan (optional)
1 tbs finely chopped fresh chives

1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and seeds and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes or until onion is soft and beginning to brown slightly. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the celeriac, stock and milk and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low and cook, partially covered, for 20 minutes or until celeriac is tender (the milk may appear curdled at this stage). Add the broccoli and cook, partially covered, for a further 15 minutes or until broccoli is just tender.
3. Puree soup in the pan using a hand blender or puree in batches in a jug blender until smooth and pour into a clean saucepan. Season with salt (if using home-made stock) and pepper to taste and heat through gently without boiling.
4. Ladle the soup into serving bowls and sprinkle with parmesan, if using, and chives before serving.