Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 pounds, chopped into florets)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 medium carrots (diced)
- 2 stalks celery (diced)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (e.g., almond or oat milk)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or coconut oil)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Juice of 1 lemon (for added brightness)
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Roasted chickpeas (for protein and crunch)
- Croutons (for added texture)
- Drizzle of olive oil (for extra richness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop the Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into uniform-sized florets after removing leaves and stem.
- Dice the Aromatics: Dice the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the Aromatics: Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onions turn translucent.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Add Cauliflower and Broth
- Combine Ingredients: Add cauliflower florets to the pot and stir with the sautéed vegetables.
- Pour in Broth: Add 4 cups of vegetable broth.
- Season the Soup: Sprinkle in thyme, rosemary, and add salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Cook Until Tender: Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until cauliflower is tender.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
- Cool Slightly: Remove the pot from heat and allow it to cool a bit.
- Blend: Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth. If using a countertop blender, blend in batches.
- Adjust Consistency: Stir in 1 cup of plant-based milk for a creamier texture.
Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice
- Brighten the Flavor: Stir in the juice of 1 lemon. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle into Bowls: Serve hot.
- Add Toppings: Garnish with parsley, roasted chickpeas, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil as desired.
Step 8: Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
Customization Options
- Flavor Variations: Add spices like cumin or paprika for a different flavor profile.
- Extra Vegetables: Incorporate spinach or kale for added nutrients.
- Creamier Texture: Use coconut milk or add blended soaked cashews.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, serves 4)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 3g
This comforting and creamy Vegan Cauliflower Soup is perfect for a cozy meal and is packed with nutrients. Enjoy! 😊