Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Easy Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, diced (approx. 1 cup / 150g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups (approx. 400g) broccoli florets (about 1 large head), chopped small
• 1 medium carrot, grated or finely chopped (approx. ½ cup / 75g)
• 3 tablespoons (25g) all-purpose flour
• 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk (or half-and-half for creamier texture)
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups (approx. 150g) shredded smoked Gouda cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika for added depth