Ingredients

• 1 medium head cauliflower, broken into florets
• 1 medium carrot, shredded
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1 medium leek, cleaned and chopped
• 2-1/2 cups water
• 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon or 1 vegetable bouillon cube
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups 2% milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

• Start by washing and preparing your vegetables. Break the cauliflower into florets, shred the carrot, chop the celery, and clean and chop the leek. Make sure to remove any grit from the leek.

2. Cook the Vegetables:

• In a large pot, combine the cauliflower, carrot, celery, and leek. Add the 2-1/2 cups of water and the chicken or vegetable bouillon. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-15 minutes.

3. Make the Roux:

• In a separate saucepan, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the 3 tablespoons of flour to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is lightly golden and bubbly.

4. Add the Milk:

• Gradually whisk in the 2 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Combine the Mixtures:

• Once the vegetables are tender, carefully transfer them to a blender or use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. If using a traditional blender, you may need to do this in batches.
• Return the blended soup to the pot. Add the roux mixture to the soup, stirring until well combined.

6. Add Cheese and Seasonings:

• Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup. Season with salt, pepper, and hot pepper sauce if using. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more salt or pepper as desired.

7. Serve:

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional shredded cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy warm!

Cooking Tips

• Blending: For a smoother soup, blend it longer. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only part of the soup or leave it as is.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.
• Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or broccoli for extra nutrition.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra milk if needed.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approx. 1 cup)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 9 g
• Fat: 16 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugars: 4 g
• Sodium: 600 mg

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cauliflower works well in this recipe. Just add it directly to the pot with the other vegetables and adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. How can I make this soup dairy-free?
Substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free cheese options.

3. Can I add protein to this soup?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken or bacon can be added for extra protein and flavor.

4. What if I want a thicker soup?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, increase the amount of roux by adding more flour and butter.

5. Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s a great option for meal prep! Prepare in advance and reheat as needed throughout the week.

Conclusion

Creamy Cauliflower and Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also a comforting way to incorporate vegetables into your diet. This simple yet satisfying recipe can be easily customized to fit your preferences, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup is sure to become a beloved favorite. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy spoonful!