Cauliflower Soup with Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that's both satisfying and nutritious. The addition of cheese adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the mild cauliflower perfectly. Here’s a straightforward recipe for making this delicious soup:
Cauliflower Soup with Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup milk or cream (or a dairy-free alternative)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme if available)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnishes: additional shredded cheese, fresh chives, or croutons
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cauliflower:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 5 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Cook the Cauliflower:
- Add the cauliflower florets to the pot and stir to combine.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
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Blend the Soup:
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
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Add Cheese and Milk:
- Stir in the milk or cream and heat the soup over low heat until warm.
- Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring until melted and fully incorporated.
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Season and Serve:
- Season the soup with dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with additional shredded cheese, fresh chives, or croutons if desired.
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Optional Creaminess:
- For an extra creamy texture, you can blend a bit more after adding the cheese.
Optional Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley for varied flavors.
- Protein Boost: Stir in some cooked bacon bits or shredded chicken for added protein.
This cauliflower soup with cheese is perfect for a cozy meal and pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread. Enjoy!
