Creamy cauliflower soup recipe

This creamy cauliflower soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any time of the year. The rich, velvety texture and the subtle sweetness of the cauliflower make it a delightful treat. The addition of garlic, nutmeg, and Parmesan cheese elevates the soup to a luxurious level, making it a great option for both casual meals and special occasions. This recipe is also versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped (6 oz)
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic
• 1 quart reduced-sodium chicken broth (Pacific Natural brand)
• ¼ teaspoon white pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnishes: sautéed cauliflower florets, roasted chickpeas, fresh thyme leaves, extra Parmesan, and/or extra black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Remove and discard the outer leaves of the cauliflower. Trim off the stem and quarter the cauliflower by slicing it down the middle of the stem. Separate the core from the florets. Roughly chop the florets and thinly slice the core. Set aside.

2. Sauté the Onion: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes, until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.

3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for 1-2 more minutes, until fragrant.

4. Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped cauliflower, chicken broth, white pepper, and ground nutmeg to the stockpot. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and continue simmering for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender. Remove the thyme sprigs (if using).

6. Puree the Soup: Using an immersion blender or transferring the soup in batches to a traditional blender, puree the soup until smooth.

7. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season the soup to taste with salt and black pepper.

8. Serve Immediately: Serve the creamy cauliflower soup immediately, topped with your desired garnishes if desired.

Top Tips:

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients will make a significant difference in the flavor and texture of your soup.

2. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup as you go and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional nutmeg if needed.

3. Blend Carefully: When blending hot soups, be careful not to fill the blender too full to avoid splashing.

4. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can add a bright, fresh flavor to your soup.

5. Experiment with Spices: Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.

6. Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen for later use. Reheat gently before serving.

Variations:

1. Use Olive Oil Instead of Butter: For a lighter version, use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing the onion and garlic.

2. Add Other Vegetables: Mix in other vegetables like carrots, celery, or sweet potatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

3. Use Half-and-Half or Coconut Milk: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a different texture and flavor.

4. Add Bacon or Cheddar: For a heartier soup, add crumbled bacon or extra cheddar cheese for added richness.

5. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary for an herbal twist or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

6. Make It Vegan: Use a plant-based milk and skip the Parmesan cheese for a vegan version of the soup.

Nutritional Guide:

Additional Nutritional Notes: This creamy cauliflower soup is not only delicious but also relatively healthy. The cauliflower provides a good source of vitamins and antioxidants, while the heavy cream adds richness and creaminess. You can adjust the amount of cream to suit your dietary needs, making it a versatile option for various diets. Additionally, using reduced-sodium chicken broth helps keep the sodium content in check, making it a great choice for those watching their salt intake.