Cauliflower soup

Creamy and flavorful cauliflower soup

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Cauliflower soup is a comforting dish, packed with nutrients, that reminds us of warm meals at home on chilly days. This simple and healthy dish is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a delicious meal without compromising on ingredient quality. Over time, cauliflower soup has been appreciated not only for its delicious taste but also for its versatility, being adaptable to individual preferences.

Ingredients for cauliflower soup:
- 1 medium cauliflower (approximately 500g)
- 1 large carrot
- 1/2 celery root
- 1 medium onion
- 1/2 bell pepper
- 1 parsley root
- 1/2 bunch of fresh dill, chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or sunflower oil
- Salt and ground pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 liters of water

Preparing the cauliflower soup:

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables
Start by peeling and washing all the vegetables. A good soup begins with fresh ingredients. Therefore, I recommend choosing seasonal vegetables that will ensure an intense flavor. Grate the carrot, parsley, and celery, which will help release the flavors and make the soup creamier. Chop the onion and bell pepper into small cubes to incorporate them evenly into the soup.

Step 2: Sautéing the vegetables
In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the onion and bell pepper. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. This step is essential as sautéing the vegetables enhances their flavor and gives a hint of sweetness.

Step 3: Adding the remaining vegetables
Add the grated carrot, celery, and parsley to the pot. Continue to sauté the vegetables for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You will notice how the aroma blends and fills your kitchen with an inviting scent.

Step 4: Boiling the soup
After the vegetables have been sautéed, pour the 2 liters of water into the pot. Put the lid on and let the soup reach a boiling point. Once the water starts to boil, add salt, pepper, and ground cumin. These spices will give a delicious taste to your soup. After it starts boiling, add the cauliflower broken into florets. Ensure that the cauliflower florets are of uniform size to cook evenly.

Step 5: Cooking the cauliflower
Let the soup boil over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower becomes tender. You can check if it’s done by piercing a floret with a fork; if it goes in easily, it’s ready.

Step 6: Finishing the soup
Once the cauliflower is cooked, add the chopped dill and mix well. Turn off the heat and let the soup cool slightly before blending it, if you prefer a creamier texture. You can use an immersion blender or a regular blender. If you like the soup with chunks, you can skip this step.

Serving and variations
Serve the cauliflower soup warm, garnished with a few fresh dill leaves and, if desired, a drizzle of olive oil on top for extra flavor. This soup pairs perfectly with toasted bread or flavorful croutons.

To add a personal touch, you can experiment with various ingredients. For example, add a grated potato for an even heartier soup or a splash of cream at serving for a richer taste.

Nutrition and benefits
Cauliflower soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cauliflower is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, while carrots provide a significant amount of beta-carotene, essential for eye health. This soup is low in calories, with approximately 130 calories per serving, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables are a quick and convenient alternative. Make sure to thaw them before adding them to the soup.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
If you like a spicier taste, you can add a hot pepper or a little cayenne pepper.

3. How can I store the soup?
You can store the soup in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for later consumption.

4. What can I pair with cauliflower soup?
This soup pairs excellently with a fresh green salad or a grilled cheese sandwich.

This cauliflower soup is a perfect choice for a quick and healthy dinner. With each spoonful, you will enjoy an explosion of flavors and the nutritional benefits of fresh vegetables. Enjoy your meal!