Cauliflower and Potato Cream Soup

Name: Cauliflower and Potato Cream Soup - Lidia H.
Ingredients: 1 small cauliflower; 2 potatoes; 6 slices of pancetta (bacon); 1 leek (onion); 1 can of chicken stock; 1 bay leaf; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; 1 cup of cheddar cheese (110 g); chives; salt; pepper; 1 cube of vegetable broth

Soups - Cauliflower and Potato Cream Soup by Lidia H. - Recipia

To prepare a creamy cauliflower soup with potatoes and pancetta, start by peeling the potatoes and then cutting them into larger cubes. This step is essential, as uniformly sized cubes will ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture. Continue with the cauliflower, breaking it into small florets, making sure to remove the leaves as well. Start preparing the pancetta by slicing it thinly. Place the slices in a pot or saucepan with a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. When the pancetta becomes golden and crispy, remove it to a paper towel to drain excess fat. Instead of leeks, you can use a white onion, which will provide a sweet and aromatic flavor. Peel the onion and chop it finely, then add it to the saucepan with the remaining oil from the pancetta. Sauté the onion for 5-6 minutes until it becomes translucent, at which point the flavors will intensify. Now it’s time to add the potatoes and cauliflower to the saucepan, along with chicken broth, a bay leaf, a cube of bouillon, a pinch of salt, and a little pepper. Mix the ingredients well, cover the pot with a lid, and let them simmer for 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender. After the time is up, use a slotted spoon to remove the cauliflower and potatoes from the pot, transferring them to a blender. Add the remaining broth so that all the flavors combine perfectly. Blend the mixture for 1-2 minutes until you achieve a creamy and slightly liquid texture. Put the cream back in the pot and bring it to a boil. At this point, add the grated cheddar cheese, stirring well for it to melt evenly and integrate into the soup. Serving is a key moment, so pour the creamy soup into deep bowls, sprinkling crispy pancetta on top for a contrast of textures and an extra burst of flavor. You can finish with a little finely chopped chives, which will add a fresh and aromatic note. Enjoy this warm soup, perfect for cool days! Bon appétit!