Cauliflower soup is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of year. This recipe combines the subtle flavor of cauliflower with vibrant carrots, celery, and a blend of cheeses for a rich and satisfying soup. Follow these easy steps to create a delicious cauliflower soup that will warm your soul.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, broken into small florets
- 2 cups carrots, shredded
- ¼ cup celery, chopped
- ¼ cup onion, chopped
- 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup Mexican blend cheese
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Cut the cauliflower head into florets. Shred the carrots, chop the celery, and chop the onion.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, combine the cauliflower florets, shredded carrots, chopped celery, chopped onion, and chicken or vegetable stock. Add the bay leaves and dried basil. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it reaches a rolling boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Carefully remove the bay leaves from the mixture and discard them, as they have served their purpose in infusing flavor.
- Make the Roux:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour to form a roux. Continue to whisk for about 2-3 minutes, until the roux is light golden brown and bubbly.
- Add Milk to the Roux:
- Slowly pour the milk into the roux while continuously whisking to ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture. Take your time to blend thoroughly for a creamy consistency. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Slowly pour the milk mixture into the pot with the cooked vegetables, stirring constantly to combine. Bring the soup back to a simmer and cook for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Blend the Soup:
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only a portion of the soup and leave some vegetables whole.
- As an alternative method, you can carefully transfer the soup in small batches to a blender, blending each batch until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. Be sure to handle hot liquids with care to avoid spills and burns.
- Add Cheese and Season:
- Stir in the Mexican blend cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- Adjust the seasoning of the soup by adding salt and pepper to your preferred taste. Taste and adjust as needed to ensure the flavors are well-balanced and to your liking.
- Serve:
- Ladle the hot cauliflower soup into bowls and garnish with additional shredded cheese, chopped fresh herbs, or croutons if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this creamy, comforting dish.
Conclusion
This velvety cauliflower soup offers a delightful blend of flavors, making it an ideal choice for a comforting meal. Its rich and creamy texture provides warmth and satisfaction, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re looking for a cozy lunch or a soothing dinner, this easy-to-prepare cauliflower soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Savor the harmonious flavors and the comforting warmth it brings to any day of the week. Bon appétit!