Creamy Cheddar Cauliflower Soup

Warm up your winter evenings with a bowl of our Creamy Cheddar Cauliflower Soup. This delightful recipe combines the wholesome goodness of cauliflower with the rich, comforting taste of cheddar cheese, creating a velvety and satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this soup is both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 2 sizable cauliflower heads, chopped into small florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 green onions, white part only (reserve greens for garnish)
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 large carrot, shredded
• 1 stalk celery, sliced
• 1 quart (32 ounces) vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup milk
• ⅔ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Green onion for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Break the cauliflower heads into small florets.
   • Chop the white parts of the green onions and reserve the greens for garnish.
   • Shred the carrot and slice the celery.
2. Sauté the Base:
   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped green onions, garlic, shredded carrot, and sliced celery.
   • Continue to cook until the cauliflower is tender and develops a slightly golden color, approximately 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Cauliflower:
   • Add the cauliflower florets to the pot.
   • Pour in the vegetable broth and water. Stir to combine.
   • Season with salt and pepper.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
4. Create the Roux:
   • In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to form a roux.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
5. Blend and Combine:
   • Using an immersion blender, puree the cauliflower mixture until smooth and creamy. For a heartier consistency, consider only pureeing a portion of the soup while leaving the rest intact.
   • Stir the roux into the soup until well combined.
   • Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
6. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls.
   • Garnish with reserved green onion greens if desired.
   • Serve hot and enjoy!

Conclusion:

This velvety Cheddar Cauliflower Soup offers a delightful combination of savory flavors and smooth textures. Ideal for both entertaining and cozy nights in, this soup promises to satisfy your cravings for a rich, cheesy treat. Pair it with some artisan bread or a fresh green salad to round out your meal and enjoy a new household favorite.