Creamy Cauliflower Soup (Comfort-Style)

Creamy Cauliflower Soup (Comfort-Style)

🥦 Ingredients (4 servings)

Main

• 1 medium head cauliflower (about 700–800 g), cut into florets

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small carrot, diced (for sweetness + color)

• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil

• 3 cups vegetable stock (or chicken stock)

• 1 cup milk or light cream (adjust for thickness)

Seasoning

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)

• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional but very good)

• ½ tsp dried thyme or bay leaf

• Pinch of chili flakes or paprika (optional)

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley or chives

• Cracked black pepper

• Drizzle of cream or olive oil

• Toasted bread or croutons

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🔪 Preparation

1. Prep the cauliflower

   • Remove outer leaves and core.

   • Cut into small florets so they cook evenly.

2. Sauté the base

   • Heat butter or olive oil in a pot over medium heat.

   • Add chopped onion and carrot.

   • Cook 5–6 minutes until soft and slightly sweet (don’t brown).

   • Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Cook the cauliflower

   • Add cauliflower florets to the pot.

   • Stir well to coat with the butter and aromatics.

   • Season lightly with salt and pepper.

4. Simmer

   • Pour in the stock.

   • Add thyme or bay leaf.

   • Bring to a gentle boil, then lower to a simmer.

   • Cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until cauliflower is very tender.

5. Blend

   • Remove bay leaf if used.

   • Blend the soup using:

     • An immersion blender (easiest), or

     • A countertop blender (in batches).

   • Blend until smooth or slightly chunky, depending on preference.

6. Make it creamy

   • Return soup to low heat.

   • Stir in milk or cream gradually until desired thickness.

   • Add nutmeg and adjust salt & pepper.

7. Final taste check

   • Simmer 2–3 more minutes.

   • Taste and adjust seasoning.

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🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast

• Add roasted cauliflower florets on top for texture

• Finish with cracked pepper and a drizzle of olive oil

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🔁 Variations

• Vegan: Use olive oil + plant milk (oat or cashew works great)

• Extra rich: Add grated cheese (cheddar or parmesan)

• Spiced: Add cumin or curry powder

• Protein boost: Blend in white beans or serve with grilled chicken