Creamy Cauliflower and Cheddar Soup

1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Chop the cauliflower into small florets and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Cauliflower: Add the chopped cauliflower to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
4. Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
5. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate small pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it forms a paste. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until smooth. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the Cheese: Remove the small pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Combine and Season: Pour the cheese sauce into the blended soup and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, you can add more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Immersion blender or regular blender
• Small pot
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

Tips and Tricks

• Consistency: If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest with the cauliflower pieces intact.
• Cheese: Use a good quality sharp cheddar for the best flavor. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or a mix of different cheeses.
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrition.

Variations

• Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with olive oil, use a plant-based milk, and replace the cheddar with a vegan cheese.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Broccoli and Cheddar: Replace half of the cauliflower with broccoli for a different but equally delicious soup.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. This soup also freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

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