Welcome to a culinary adventure that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds! This delightful Cauliflower and White Cheddar Soup is not just any ordinary soup; it’s a creamy, dreamy bowl of comfort that promises to be the star of your dinner table. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 35 minutes of your time, you can whip up a velvety concoction that’s perfect for chilly evenings or as a luxurious starter for your next gathering. Ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s both wholesome and indulgent? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chives for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables by washing the cauliflower and chopping it into uniform florets. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Add the chopped cauliflower florets to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the pot, ensuring that the cauliflower is mostly covered. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the cauliflower is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a standard blender in batches.
- Return the pot to low heat and stir in the milk, gradually adding the shredded white cheddar cheese while stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy texture.
- Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped chives for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally accompanied by crusty bread or croutons for added texture.
Tips
- Choosing the Cauliflower: Look for a fresh head of cauliflower with tightly packed florets and vibrant green leaves. This ensures maximum flavor and texture in your soup.
- Sautéing the Aromatics: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Allow the onions to become translucent and the garlic to release its aroma—this step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
- Blending for Creaminess: For the smoothest texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. If using a standard blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches to avoid splattering.
- Cheese Quality Matters: Opt for high-quality white cheddar cheese for a richer flavor. Grate it yourself for better melting and a creamier consistency.
- Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend it less; for a thinner soup, add a bit more vegetable broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish for Flair: Fresh chives not only add a pop of color but also a mild onion flavor that complements the soup beautifully. Feel free to experiment with other toppings like croutons or a drizzle of olive oil.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this soup with crusty bread or homemade croutons for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
