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How to Make Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the top off the bulb of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with a little olive oil, wrap it in aluminum foil, and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until the garlic is soft and golden brown.
- Once roasted, let the garlic cool slightly before squeezing the cloves out of their skins. Set them aside.
Step 2: Cook the Cauliflower and Onion
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cauliflower florets and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help bring out the natural sweetness of the cauliflower.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Simmer
- Add the roasted garlic (squeezed out of its skins) to the pot with the cauliflower and onion.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
- Once the cauliflower is tender, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender.
- Blend until you reach a creamy, velvety texture. You can leave some small chunks if you prefer a bit of texture in the soup.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Cream
- Return the soup to the heat and stir in the milk or heavy cream for a rich and creamy consistency.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and fully incorporated.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using) to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Once the soup is creamy and well-seasoned, ladle it into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the creamy soup.
- Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness!
Tips for Perfect Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup
- Use Sharp Cheddar: For the best flavor, opt for sharp cheddar cheese. It adds a stronger, more pronounced cheese flavor that pairs beautifully with the roasted garlic and cauliflower.
- Make It Vegan: To make this soup vegan, simply swap the cheddar cheese for a plant-based cheese and use coconut milk or almond milk instead of dairy cream. You’ll still get a creamy, satisfying soup.
- Add a Protein Boost: If you’d like to add a protein element, consider adding cooked chicken or crispy bacon bits on top for extra flavor and texture.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend it less for a chunkier texture. Alternatively, if you like a thinner soup, add a bit more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Why This Soup is a Must-Try
Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup is the perfect combination of creamy indulgence and nutritious vegetables, making it a wonderful dish for any occasion. The roasted garlic gives it a rich, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the mellow taste of cauliflower and the sharp, creamy cheddar. It’s a warm, comforting meal on its own or can be served as a starter to a hearty dinner.
This soup is a great way to get your family or guests to enjoy the health benefits of cauliflower without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a cozy meal to enjoy on a cold night, this Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup will surely hit the spot. Give it a try today and experience the creamy, cheesy goodness for yourself!
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