Nigella Lawson's Creamy Cauliflower Soup Recipe

Exploring Nigella Lawson's Creamy Cauliflower Soup

Nigella Lawson's velvety cauliflower soup recipe is a classic for good reason - it's comforting, adaptable and full of flavor. This creamy, low-carb soup makes a nourishing meal or appetizer that even cauliflower skeptics adore.

An Overview of Nigella's Recipe

True to Nigella's unfussy cooking style, this soup comes together with minimal effort. Here's an overview:

• The base is sauted cauliflower florets cooked until golden brown
• Chicken or vegetable broth, milk and seasonings create a flavorful, creamy broth
• Blitzing half the soup gives it a silky texture while retaining some cauliflower pieces
• Garnishes like fresh chives or crispy bacon liven things up

With 30 minutes active prep time, it's simple enough for busy weeknights but special enough for guests. Let's look at why this recipe shines.

Benefits of Cauliflower

This cruciferous vegetable brings valuable nutrients to the bowl:

• Packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, folate and more
• Delivers antioxidants and phytochemicals that support detoxification
• Provides insoluble fiber for digestive and heart health
• Low-carb alternative to starchy soups and sides

Roasting cauliflower concentrating its savory, nutty flavor - capitalized on further when blended into this velvety soup.

Why Nigella's Method Works

Browning the cauliflower florets first makes all the difference, achieving:

• Deeper, more complex cauliflower flavor
• Caramelized texture for excellent soup base
• Reduced grassy taste often disliked about cauliflower
• Natural sweetness balanced by savory umami notes

Blitzing only half the soup gives you the best of both worlds - sublimely smooth and still retaining definition from cauliflower pieces.

Tips for Making It Creamy

The combo of broth and milk makes this soup ultra-creamy without needing heavy cream. For best results:

• Use equal amounts broth and milk for perfect consistency
• Stir regularly to prevent milk proteins from burning
• Simmer, don't boil, once milk is added
• Consider half-and-half for even richer flavor

For a vegan soup, swap in unsweetened non-dairy milk and vegetable broth.

Inspired Flavor Variations

Change up this soup's flair with mix-ins like:

• Cheese: Grated cheddar, goat, parmesan or gouda
• Alliums: Sauted onion, garlic, leeks, shallots, chives
• Herbs: Chives, parsley, thyme, rosemary, sage
• Spices: Curry powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne

Swapping out other vegetables like potatoes, sweet potato or parsnips allows you to put your own spin by playing with flavors and textures while keeping cauliflower as the base.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Ready to whip up a batch of this fan-favorite cauliflower soup? Follow these simple steps:

Ingredients

• 1 large head cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced (optional)
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk
• Fresh parsley, chives, thyme, etc.
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Saut cauliflower florets for 3-4 minutes until browned.
2. Optional - Add diced onion and continue cooking for 2 minutes until softened.
3. Pour in broth and milk, adding any extra flavorings like herbs/spices. Bring to a simmer.
4. Let soup simmer for 15 minutes, or until cauliflower is very tender.
5. Remove pot from heat. Blitz half the soup in a blender or with an immersion blender until pureed and return to pot.
6. Adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot garnished with herbs, cheese or crispy bacon bits!

Recipe Variations

Once you master the original recipe, play around with different flavor combos using seasonal ingredients, veggies and garnishes.

Curried Cauliflower Soup

• 1 Tbsp curry powder
• 1 Granny Smith apple, diced
• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
• Cilantro, toasted cashews, lime wedges for serving

Cauliflower Leek Soup with Bacon

• 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Smoked paprika
• Thyme
• Croutons for serving

Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Soup

• 1 head roasted garlic, cloves separated
• 2 parsnips, chopped
• 14 cup dry sherry
• Chives

The possibilities are endless for putting your own stamp on this soup!

Serving Ideas and Pairings

Looking for ways to complete the meal or serve this soup in style? These ideas take this comfort food to the next level:

Garnishes That Up the Ante

• Chopped fresh herbs - chives, parsley, dill
• Shaved parmesan
• Crumbled bacon or pancetta
• Croutons or crusty bread
• Seeds or nuts - pepitas, pine nuts, walnuts
• Fried shallots or crispy onions

Hearty Accompaniments

• Warm crusty artisan bread
• Mixed green side salad
• Sandwiches - turkey, grilled cheese, croque monsieur

Elegant Starters

• Plated in a dramatic bowl with chives, lime zest, edible flowers
• Piped onto a long platter over a swipe of tangy creme fraiche
• Served in espresso cups or shot glasses for a first course
• Offered in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or acorn squash during fall

However you choose to serve it, this velvety cauliflower soup makes an excellent addition to any menu!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.