Spicy, Homestyle Cream of Cauliflower Soup

Homestyle Cream of Cauliflower Soup Recipe with a Spicy Twist from Egypt

Region / culture: Egypt | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spicy, Homestyle Cream of Cauliflower Soup

Cream of cauliflower soup is a comforting and creamy dish that is perfect for a cold day. This spicy, homestyle version adds a kick of flavor to the classic recipe.

History

Cream of cauliflower soup has been a popular dish for centuries, with variations found in many different cultures. This particular recipe adds a spicy twist to the traditional creamy soup, giving it a unique and flavorful taste.

Ingredients

2 cups chicken broth
1 small onion, chopped
2 cups chopped cauliflower
hot sauce to taste
2 tbsp butter or margarine (optional; omit for low fat)
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Ground pepper, salt to taste
1 cup low-fat milk

How to prepare

In a saucepan, combine the chicken broth, onion, cauliflower, and hot sauce.
Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer until the vegetable bits are tender.
Using a slotted spoon, remove the vegetables and transfer them to a food processor. Pulse until smooth.
Repeat the process until all the cauliflower is smooth. If you don't have a food processor, you can use a food mill or potato masher.
In a separate saucepan or small skillet, melt the butter. Add the flour and pepper to make a roux.
Add the roux to the milk and stir well.
Pour the milk mixture into the soup in the original saucepan. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly.
Be careful not to let the soup burn. Adjust the seasonings to taste.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Top with shredded cheese or fresh herbs for added garnish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to simmer the vegetables until they are tender before blending them into a smooth puree.

- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste preferences.

- Be careful not to let the soup burn while thickening it with the roux.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup hot with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Blending the vegetables into a smooth puree gives the soup a creamy texture.

- Thickening the soup with a roux made from butter and flour adds richness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

- Substitute almond milk for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, or a dollop of sour cream for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This spicy cream of cauliflower soup pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this spicy cream of cauliflower soup contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this spicy cream of cauliflower soup contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This soup contains approximately 8 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

Each serving of this soup provides about 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cauliflower is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. This soup also contains calcium and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk) and wheat (flour), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

This spicy cream of cauliflower soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is relatively low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This spicy, homestyle cream of cauliflower soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With its creamy texture and flavorful kick, it is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Spicy, Homestyle Cream of Cauliflower Soup. It was a cold winter day, much like today, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that belonged to my mother. As I turned the yellowed pages, I came across a handwritten note tucked in between the pages. It was a recipe for a creamy cauliflower soup with a spicy kick that caught my eye.

I had always been a fan of cauliflower, but I had never thought to turn it into a soup before. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try. I gathered the ingredients I needed and set to work in the kitchen, following the instructions carefully.

As the soup simmered on the stove, the aroma that filled the kitchen was absolutely divine. The combination of cauliflower, cream, and spices created a rich and comforting scent that made my mouth water. I couldn't wait to sit down and taste the finished product.

When the soup was finally ready, I ladled myself a bowl and took a cautious sip. The flavors exploded on my taste buds – the creaminess of the cauliflower, the heat of the spices, and the warmth of the soup all came together in perfect harmony. I knew right then and there that this recipe was something special.

I shared the soup with my family that night, and they all raved about how delicious it was. My husband even went back for seconds, which was a rare occurrence. From that moment on, Spicy, Homestyle Cream of Cauliflower Soup became a regular feature on our dinner table.

Over the years, I have made this soup countless times, tweaking and perfecting the recipe to suit my family's tastes. I have added extra garlic for a stronger flavor, swapped out the cream for coconut milk to make it dairy-free, and experimented with different combinations of spices to keep things interesting.

One day, while chatting with a friend at the grocery store, I mentioned my love for cauliflower soup. To my surprise, she told me that she had a similar recipe that had been passed down through her family for generations. Eager to compare notes, we arranged to meet for a soup-making session at her house.

As we worked side by side in her cozy kitchen, I marveled at the similarities and differences between our recipes. Her version of the soup included cumin and coriander, giving it a unique Indian twist that I had never thought of before. I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

When the soup was ready, we sat down at the table and dug in. The flavors of her recipe were bold and exotic, with a depth that I had never experienced before. I couldn't help but ask her for the recipe, knowing that it would become a new favorite in my repertoire.

As the years went by, I continued to collect recipes from friends, family, and even strangers that I met along the way. Each one had its own story and history, adding to the tapestry of flavors that filled my kitchen.

But no matter how many recipes I collected, Spicy, Homestyle Cream of Cauliflower Soup remained a constant favorite. It was a reminder of that cold winter day when I stumbled upon a handwritten note in an old cookbook and discovered a culinary gem that would become a cherished part of my family's mealtime traditions.

And so, as I sit here now, stirring a pot of cauliflower soup on the stove, I can't help but smile at the memories and stories that have brought me to this moment. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, but it is the connections and friendships that I have forged through sharing recipes that truly warm my heart.

As I ladle myself a bowl of the fragrant soup and take a sip, I am transported back to that first taste all those years ago. The flavors are just as bold and comforting as ever, a testament to the power of a good recipe and the joy that comes from sharing it with those you love. And for that, I am forever grateful.