When it comes to comforting, nutritious meals, roasted cauliflower soup stands out as a hearty and flavorful option. This soup combines the caramelized richness of roasted cauliflower with the fresh taste of vegetables and aromatic spices. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step recipe to help you create a delectable roasted cauliflower soup at home.
Why Roasted Cauliflower Soup is the Perfect Meal
Roasted cauliflower soup is not only packed with nutrients but also boasts a creamy texture and rich flavor. The roasting process intensifies the natural sweetness of cauliflower, making it the star of this dish. Paired with herbs, garlic, and a medley of vegetables, this soup is an excellent choice for lunch, dinner, or as a light appetizer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For Roasting the Cauliflower
- 1 medium-large head of cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons of oil (grapeseed oil is ideal, but olive oil, canola, or vegetable oil works well)
- Pinch of salt and pepper
For the Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon oil (grapeseed oil recommended)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 4 ½ cups water
- 1 ½ tablespoons Better Than Bouillon vegetarian no-chicken soup base
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- ¾ teaspoon celery salt
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (added at the end for a bright finish)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Roasted Cauliflower Soup
Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Cauliflower
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the cauliflower in half, remove the core, and break it into florets. Slice the florets into smaller, evenly sized pieces.
- Spread the cauliflower on the baking sheet, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of oil, and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Roast the cauliflower for 35 minutes, tossing halfway through for even browning. Once golden and tender, let it cool slightly before giving it a rough chop.
Step 2: Prepare the Soup Base
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, garlic, grated carrot, and diced celery. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Add the roasted cauliflower to the pot along with 4 ½ cups of water, bouillon, nutritional yeast, and the spices (celery salt, Italian seasoning, dried thyme, and additional salt).
- Stir well, then bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are completely tender.
Step 4: Blend and Finish the Soup
- Remove about 4-5 cups of soup and puree it in a blender until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids—blend in batches if necessary.
- Return the blended soup to the pot and stir well to combine. Adjust the consistency with a splash of vegetable broth if the soup is too thick.
- Stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavor, then taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your roasted cauliflower soup with a side of crusty bread, like homemade artisan no-knead bread, for a complete meal. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for an extra touch of flavor.
Tips for the Best Roasted Cauliflower Soup
- Roast to Perfection: Ensure the cauliflower is well caramelized for maximum flavor.
- Layer the Flavors: Sautéing the vegetables before adding liquids enhances the soup’s depth.
- Customize Your Texture: Blend more or less soup depending on whether you prefer a creamy or chunky texture.
- Boost Nutrition: Add a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra greens.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This roasted cauliflower soup is:
- Nutrient-rich and vegan-friendly
- Easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices
- Freezer-friendly, making it perfect for meal prep
- A cozy, satisfying dish for any season
If you’re looking for a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious, this roasted cauliflower soup ticks all the boxes.