Roasted Garlic Cheddar Cauliflower Soup
Gather the following ingredients to create this flavorful soup:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, chopped
- 1 head of garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives, for garnish (optional)
Directions
To prepare this creamy soup, follow these simple steps:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2: Cut the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with a little olive oil and wrap in aluminum foil. Roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the cloves are soft.
- Step 3: While the garlic is roasting, on a large baking sheet, toss the chopped cauliflower with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 25 minutes or until tender and slightly golden.
- Step 4: In a large pot, add the roasted cauliflower and squeeze the softened roasted garlic cloves out of their skins.
- Step 5: Pour in the broth and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Allow it to simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Step 6: Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the mixture to a regular blender in batches.
- Step 7: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 8: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped chives if desired.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers for up to three months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
2. Can I make it vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and the heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk.
3. What if I don’t have an immersion blender?
You can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, but be cautious with the hot liquid.
4. How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while blending to enhance the heat level.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to include vegetables like carrots or potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly until they are tender.
Conclusion
This Roasted Garlic Cheddar Cauliflower Soup is a delightful way to warm up on a cold day while enjoying the rich flavors of roasted garlic and cheddar cheese. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also nutritious and quite versatile. Whether you serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad, this soup is sure to be a hit. Enjoy it as a meal on its own or as part of a cozy dinner gathering!
