Name: Curried Cauliflower Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower; 4 tbsp Melted coconut oil; 1 medium yellow onion; 2-3 tbsp Thai red curry paste; ½ tsp lemon zest; ½ cup unoaked white wine; 1 ½ cups vegetable broth or stock; 1 can light coconut milk; ½ tsp sugar; 1-3 tsp rice vinegar; salt and freshly ground black pepper; ¼ cup chopped green onions; 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil; Thinly sliced jalapeño,

This curried cauliflower soup is a delightful blend of warm spices and creamy textures, perfect for a cozy meal. Roasting the cauliflower adds a depth of flavor that complements the Thai red curry paste beautifully.

Photos of Curried Cauliflower Soup Recipe

Some of the ingredients you might not have at home include Thai red curry paste, coconut milk, and rice vinegar. These can usually be found in the international aisle of your supermarket. Make sure to pick up an unoaked white wine, as it has a lighter taste that won’t overpower the soup.

Curried Cauliflower Soup Ingredients

Cauliflower: The base of the soup, roasted for a rich, nutty flavor.

Coconut oil: Adds a subtle sweetness and helps in roasting the cauliflower.

Yellow onion: Provides a savory depth to the soup.

Thai red curry paste: Brings in the spicy, aromatic flavors.

Lemon zest: Adds a hint of citrusy brightness.

Unoaked white wine: Enhances the soup with mild acidity and fruity notes.

Vegetable broth: Forms the liquid base of the soup, keeping it vegetarian.

Coconut milk: Adds creaminess and a touch of sweetness.

Sugar: Balances the savory and spicy elements.

Rice vinegar: Adds a tangy finish.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth.

Green onions: Adds a fresh, slightly spicy finish.

Basil: Adds a sweet and slightly peppery flavor.

Jalapeño: Adds a kick of heat.

One reader, Crissie Stubbs says:

This curried cauliflower soup is a delightful blend of flavors! The roasted cauliflower adds a wonderful depth, and the Thai red curry paste gives it a perfect kick. The creamy coconut milk makes it incredibly comforting. A must-try for any soup lover!

Crissie Stubbs

Essential Techniques for Making Curried Cauliflower Soup

How to roast cauliflower: Toss the cauliflower with coconut oil and spread it on a baking sheet. Roast at 400 degrees F until golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes. How to sauté onions: Warm coconut oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat, add the onion with a dash of salt, and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. How to incorporate curry paste and lemon zest: Add curry paste and lemon zest to the sautéed onions and stir to combine. How to deglaze with wine: Raise the heat to medium-high, add the wine, and cook, stirring frequently, until most of the wine has evaporated. How to blend soup: Let the soup cool for a few minutes, then use an immersion blender to blend until smooth.

How To Make Curried Cauliflower Soup

This vegan cauliflower soup is made tasty by Thai red curry paste and coconut milk. White wine, lemon zest, and different herbs provide the umami flavor.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

1largehead of cauliflowerbroken into small florets, stems chopped
4tbspmelted coconut oildivided
1mediumyellow oniondiced
2-3tbspThai red curry paste
½tsplemon zest
½cupunoaked white wine
1 ½cupsvegetable broth or stock
1canlight coconut milk
½tspsugar
1-3tsprice vinegar
salt and freshly ground black pepper
¼cupchopped green onions
1tbspchopped fresh basil
Thinly sliced jalapeño,

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Toss the cauliflower with enough coconut oil to lightly coat it.
Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a large baking sheet and roast until the tips of the cauliflower are golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes.
In a Dutch oven over medium heat, warm coconut oil until shimmering. Add the onion and a dash of salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is turning translucent, about 3 minutes.
Add the curry paste and lemon zest and stir to incorporate. Raise the heat to medium-high, add the wine, and cook, stirring frequently, until most of the wine has evaporated.
Add all of the roasted cauliflower stems and half of the florets to the pot. Add the vegetable broth, coconut milk, and sugar.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Continue simmering for 5 to 10 more minutes to meld the flavors, reducing heat as necessary to maintain a gentle simmer. Remove the pot from the heat.
Let the soup cool for a few minutes, then carefully use an immersion blender to blend until smooth.
Stir in vinegar, salt, and pepper, to taste.
Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each with cauliflower florets, a sprinkle of basil, chives, and hot peppers.

Nutrition

Calories: 518.39kcal
Fat: 21.81g
Saturated Fat: 17.32g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.18g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.57g
Carbohydrates: 36.25g
Fiber: 8.64g
Sugar: 16.04g
Protein: 7.15g
Cholesterol: 0.74mg
Sodium: 2160.41mg
Calcium: 179.35mg
Potassium: 1198.19mg
Iron: 3.79mg
Vitamin A: 67.07µg
Vitamin C: 126.49mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting This Recipe

When roasting the cauliflower, make sure to spread it out in a single layer on the baking sheet. This ensures even roasting and prevents steaming, which can result in a soggy texture. For extra flavor, you can sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper on the cauliflower before roasting.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Pre-roast cauliflower: Roast the cauliflower in advance and store it in the fridge. This will save you time on the day you make the soup.

Use pre-chopped onions: Buy pre-chopped onions to cut down on prep time.

Ready-made curry paste: Opt for store-bought curry paste to avoid making it from scratch.

Immersion blender efficiency: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to save time on transferring and cleaning.

Batch cooking: Make a larger batch and freeze portions for quick meals later.

Substitute Ingredients For Curried Cauliflower Soup Recipe

cauliflower - Substitute with broccoli: Broccoli has a similar texture and can absorb the flavors of the curry paste well.
coconut oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a similar fat content and can withstand the heat required for cooking.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a similar flavor profile and can be used interchangeably in most recipes.
thai red curry paste - Substitute with yellow curry paste: Yellow curry paste offers a different but complementary flavor that still provides the necessary spice.
lemon zest - Substitute with lime zest: Lime zest offers a similar citrusy brightness that complements the soup.
unoaked white wine - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth provides a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol content.
vegetable broth - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can add a richer flavor, though it will make the dish non-vegetarian.
light coconut milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk provides a similar creamy texture with a slightly different flavor.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a slight floral note that complements the curry flavors.
rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a similar acidity and tanginess.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.
fresh basil - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the curry.
jalapeño - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers offer a similar heat level and can be used interchangeably.

How to Beautifully Present Curried Cauliflower Soup

Use a shallow, wide bowl: This allows the curried cauliflower soup to spread out, showcasing its creamy texture and vibrant color.
Garnish with roasted cauliflower florets: Place a few of the reserved roasted cauliflower florets in the center of the bowl to add texture and visual appeal.
Drizzle with coconut milk: Use a spoon to drizzle a small amount of coconut milk in a circular pattern around the soup for a touch of elegance and added creaminess.
Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs: Top with a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil and chopped green onions to add a burst of color and freshness.
Incorporate thinly sliced jalapeño: Place a few thin slices of jalapeño on top for a pop of color and a hint of heat.
Finish with a touch of lemon zest: Lightly sprinkle lemon zest over the soup to enhance the aroma and add a zesty brightness.
Serve with a side of artisan bread: Pair the soup with a slice of artisan bread to complement the flavors and provide a satisfying texture contrast.
Use a clean, white napkin: Place a neatly folded white napkin under the bowl to frame the dish and add a touch of sophistication.
Present with a polished spoon: Serve with a polished silver spoon to elevate the dining experience and add a touch of luxury.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Curried Cauliflower Soup

Oven: Used to roast the cauliflower until golden brown, enhancing its flavor and texture.
Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to spread the cauliflower in a single layer for even roasting.
Dutch oven: A heavy-duty pot used to cook the soup, allowing for even heat distribution and retention.
Immersion blender: Blends the soup directly in the pot to achieve a smooth consistency without transferring to another container.
Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients like coconut oil, curry paste, lemon zest, and sugar.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the vegetable broth, coconut milk, and wine accurately.
Knife: Essential for chopping the cauliflower, onion, green onions, basil, and jalapeño.
Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for chopping vegetables.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients in the Dutch oven without scratching its surface.
Ladle: Used to serve the soup into bowls neatly.
Mixing bowl: Useful for tossing the cauliflower with coconut oil before roasting.
Zester: Used to zest the lemon, adding a burst of citrus flavor to the soup.

Storing and Freezing Curried Cauliflower Soup

Let the curried cauliflower soup cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag.
If using a container, leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze the soup, place the container or bag in the freezer and store for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a little vegetable broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional curry paste if needed.
Serve the reheated soup hot, garnished with fresh basil, green onions, and sliced jalapeño as desired.

How To Reheat Leftover Curried Cauliflower Soup

Reheat the curried cauliflower soup in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method ensures even heating and prevents the soup from scorching or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
If the soup has thickened during storage, add a small amount of vegetable broth or water to thin it out while reheating. Stir well to incorporate the added liquid and achieve a smooth consistency.
For a quicker reheating option, transfer individual portions of the soup to microwave-safe bowls. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the soup is heated through. Be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it may be hot.
To enhance the flavors of the reheated soup, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil, or a pinch of curry powder. These additions can help brighten the taste and aroma of the soup.
If you have leftover roasted cauliflower florets, reserve them to use as a garnish when reheating the soup. This will add texture and visual appeal to the dish.
When reheating the soup, be sure to stir it frequently to prevent hot spots and ensure even heat distribution. This is especially important if you are using the stovetop method.
If you have a large batch of leftover soup, consider reheating only the portion you plan to consume. This will help maintain the quality and freshness of the remaining soup for future meals.

Interesting Fact About Curried Cauliflower Soup

A unique aspect of this curried cauliflower soup recipe is the use of thai red curry paste, which adds a distinct and flavorful twist to the traditional cauliflower soup.

Is Making Curried Cauliflower Soup at Home Cost-Effective?

This curried cauliflower soup recipe is quite cost-effective. The main ingredient, cauliflower, is generally affordable, and other components like coconut milk, vegetable broth, and onions are pantry staples. Specialty items like Thai red curry paste and rice vinegar might be a bit pricier but are used in small quantities. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20. Considering the flavor and nutritional value, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10.

Is Curried Cauliflower Soup Healthy or Unhealthy?

The curried cauliflower soup recipe is a relatively healthy option, offering several nutritional benefits:

Cauliflower is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense vegetable rich in fiber, vitamins (C, K, and B6), and minerals (folate and potassium).
Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that may boost metabolism and support weight loss.
Onions and garlic provide prebiotics, which support gut health.
Thai red curry paste adds flavor without excessive calories and contains anti-inflammatory spices like ginger and turmeric.

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved:

The recipe calls for light coconut milk, which often contains additives and thickeners. Opting for full-fat coconut milk would provide more beneficial fats and fewer processed ingredients.
White wine adds flavor but also contributes to the overall alcohol and sugar content. Reducing or omitting it could make the soup healthier.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this soup, consider the following suggestions:

Increase the variety of vegetables by adding carrots, bell peppers, or leafy greens like spinach or kale to boost the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content
Replace white wine with vegetable broth or water to reduce alcohol and sugar content
Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for added flavor and antioxidants
Use homemade vegetable broth instead of store-bought to control sodium levels and ensure a clean ingredient list
Experiment with different spices and herbs, such as cumin, coriander, or lemongrass, to enhance flavor without relying on salt or sugar

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Soup

This curried cauliflower soup recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the earthiness of roasted cauliflower with the vibrant kick of Thai red curry paste. The addition of coconut milk lends a creamy texture, while the lemon zest and rice vinegar provide a refreshing tang. The use of light coconut milk keeps it lighter, and the unoaked white wine adds depth. Garnishing with fresh basil, green onions, and jalapeño slices not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds layers of flavor. Overall, it's a well-balanced, aromatic dish that's perfect for a cozy meal.

Enhance Your Curried Cauliflower Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Spiced Lentil Salad: Spiced Lentil Salad: Imagine a vibrant salad bursting with the earthy flavors of lentils and a medley of spices. This dish adds a hearty, protein-packed punch to your curried cauliflower soup, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.

Garlic Naan Bread: Garlic Naan Bread: Warm, fluffy naan brushed with aromatic garlic butter is the perfect companion to your soup. Tear off a piece and use it to scoop up every last drop of that creamy, curried goodness.

Mango Chutney: Mango Chutney: A sweet and tangy chutney made from ripe mangoes and a hint of spices can elevate your meal to new heights. The fruity notes will complement the savory depth of the soup, creating a delightful contrast.

Cucumber Raita: Cucumber Raita: Cool and refreshing raita with finely chopped cucumbers and a touch of mint provides a soothing counterpoint to the warm, spicy flavors of the soup. It's like a breath of fresh air for your palate.

Roasted Chickpeas: Roasted Chickpeas: Crispy, spiced chickpeas add a delightful crunch to your meal. These little nuggets of flavor can be sprinkled on top of the soup or enjoyed on the side for an extra layer of texture and taste.

Similar Soup Recipes to Try

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Dive into the creamy goodness of roasted butternut squash soup. This velvety soup is infused with aromatic spices and a hint of coconut milk, making it a perfect comfort food for chilly evenings.

Spicy Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew: Warm up with a hearty bowl of spicy lentil and sweet potato stew. Packed with protein-rich lentils and nutrient-dense sweet potatoes, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing.

Thai Green Curry with Vegetables: Experience the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine with a green curry loaded with fresh vegetables. The fragrant curry paste and creamy coconut milk create a delightful harmony of tastes.

Carrot Ginger Soup: Savor the bright and zesty notes of carrot ginger soup. This soup combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the zing of fresh ginger, resulting in a refreshing and invigorating dish.

Chickpea and Spinach Curry: Indulge in a rich and flavorful chickpea and spinach curry. This vegetarian delight features tender chickpeas and vibrant spinach simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for This Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine portobello mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are then baked until golden and bubbly, creating a rich and creamy bite that pairs perfectly with a glass of unoaked white wine. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms combined with the creamy filling makes for an irresistible appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a burst of flavor. The combination of the crispy bread and the fresh, tangy topping is a perfect way to whet your appetite. Serve with a chilled glass of unoaked white wine to complement the fresh flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate center oozing out of a warm, decadent cake. This dessert is perfect for those who crave an indulgent treat. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry sauce for a delightful contrast of flavors and temperatures. The cake itself is a symphony of dark chocolate, butter, and sugar, creating a dessert that is both luxurious and comforting.

Lemon Meringue Pie: This classic dessert features a tangy lemon curd filling nestled in a buttery, flaky crust, topped with a cloud of golden-brown meringue. The lemon curd provides a zesty contrast to the sweet, airy meringue, making each bite a delightful balance of flavors. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal, and garnish with a few lemon zest curls for an extra touch of elegance.

Why trust this Curried Cauliflower Soup Recipe:

This curried cauliflower soup recipe is a must-try for several reasons. The combination of roasted cauliflower and thai red curry paste creates a rich, complex flavor profile. The addition of coconut milk adds a creamy texture, while lemon zest and rice vinegar provide a refreshing tang. The recipe is easy to follow and uses readily available ingredients, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors and straightforward instructions.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Curried Cauliflower Soup recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Join the conversation and let us know if you have any tips or variations to enhance this flavorful dish!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of curry paste?

Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use yellow curry paste. If you like it spicier, green curry paste works well too.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

What can I use instead of coconut oil?

You can use olive oil or any other neutral oil you prefer. It might slightly change the flavor, but it will still be delicious.

Can I freeze this soup?

Definitely! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Is there a substitute for the white wine?

If you don't want to use wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of vegetable broth or even water. The flavor will be slightly different but still tasty.