mealsServes 2–4 · Ready in 20 min20 min totalapprox. 260 kcal per serving for 2 · approx. 130 kcal per serving for 4

Leftover Broccoli Stem Soup

August 31, 2026

I do not like throwing away a good broccoli stem just because it is not the pretty part of the vegetable. Once it is peeled and cooked until tender, it makes the loveliest smooth soup — simple, creamy, and exactly the kind of meal that feels good when the refrigerator is holding a few leftovers.

If you do not have fresh garlic, a small pinch of Simply Organic Garlic Powder is a practical alternative and use a light pinch of Simply Organic White Pepper to keep the flavor gentle and let the broccoli stay at the center of the bowl.

Broccoli is a naturally good source of fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate — and using the stems means you are getting all of that from a part of the vegetable that often goes straight in the bin. The fiber helps the soup feel genuinely satisfying, while the warm blended texture makes it an easy, comforting way to eat more vegetables without any effort. Garlic brings its own familiar depth and naturally occurring plant compounds, and the cream adds just enough richness to turn a simple pot of greens into something that feels like a proper meal. This is not a cure-all bowl of soup — it is simply a nourishing, practical way to use what you already have.

What you'll need

  • Leftover broccoli stems from about 500 g broccoli — peel if the skin is woody
  • A few leftover broccoli florets — optional
  • 8 dl (800 ml) saved salted water from steaming broccoli the day before, topped up with water if needed
  • 1 garlic clove, or Simply Organic Garlic Powder as a pantry alternative
  • A small pinch of white pepper
  • 1 dl whipping cream
  • Himalayan pink salt — only after tasting, the steaming water is already salted

How to make it

  1. 1

    Peel away any thick outer skin from the broccoli stems and cut them into small pieces.

  2. 2

    Bring the saved salted steaming water to a boil. Add the stems and cook for 8–10 minutes, until completely soft.

  3. 3

    Add any leftover florets for the last 4–5 minutes, pressing everything under the liquid with a spoon.

  4. 4

    Add the garlic and white pepper. Blend until completely smooth; broccoli stems need a little more blending than florets.

  5. 5

    Stir in the cream, taste before adding salt, warm through if needed, and serve.

Share