Description
Comfort meets elegance in this creamy Cauliflower Cheese Soup, a luxurious blend of roasted cauliflower and sharp cheddar. Warm spices and smooth textures create a hearty bowl that welcomes you into a world of delicious satisfaction.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, broken into florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 medium onion, chopped
Liquid Ingredients:
- 1 can (14.5 ounces/412 grams) chicken broth
- 1 chicken bouillon cube
Seasoning and Thickening Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne
- 1/8 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/8 teaspoon white pepper
- minced fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine cauliflower florets, diced onions, vegetable broth, and bouillon cube. Simmer over medium heat for 15-20 minutes until vegetables become tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Meanwhile, create a roux in a separate saucepan by melting butter over low heat and gradually whisking in flour until smooth and golden.
- Slowly pour milk into the roux, continuously whisking to prevent lumps and create a creamy base. Cook until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and incorporate shredded cheese, stirring until completely melted and integrated into the sauce. Add salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings for enhanced flavor.
- Gently fold the cheese sauce into the cooked cauliflower mixture, ensuring even distribution and maintaining a consistent texture.
- Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together and reach a perfect serving temperature of 160°F.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a side of crusty bread for a complete, comforting meal.
Notes
- Swap regular milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version that’s creamy and light.
- Roast cauliflower beforehand to enhance its nutty flavor and add depth to the soup’s overall taste profile.
- Use aged cheddar or a blend of cheeses like gruyère and sharp cheddar for a more complex, rich cheese flavor.
- For extra texture, sprinkle crispy bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs on top just before serving to add a delightful crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg