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Enjoy the cooler weather with this Gourmet Cheesy Cauliflower Soup, elevated by a delicious crispy sage-onion topping. This recipe makes gluten-free cooking easy, as all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free! There is no need to hunt for specialty products because you can whip up this dish with everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
A Must-Try Indulgence: Creamy Cauliflower Cheddar Soup with Crispy Sage-Onion Topping
The star of this soup is the cauliflower, blended to creamy perfection with sharp cheddar cheese and a splash of cream, creating a wholesome and hearty dish elevated by a tasty crispy sage-onion topping that adds a burst of herby flavor with caramelized onions. It’s the perfect choice for cozy nights in or when entertaining guests.
Key Ingredients: Cheesy Cauliflower Soup with Crispy Sage-Onion Topping (Recipe details in recipe card)
Cauliflower
Onion
Garlic
Sage
Potato
Water, vegetable, chicken or mushroom broth
Cheese
Cream
Mustard
Olive oil
Is Mustard Gluten-Free?
Most mustard varieties are gluten-free, as they are typically made from mustard seeds, vinegar, and spices. However, it’s essential to check the label, as some brands may add ingredients or flavorings that contain gluten. I use this brand of mustard.
The Crispy Sage and Onion Topping
Crispy sage and onion topping brings exceptional flavor and crunch to cauliflower soup. You can serve it by drizzling the infused oil along with the crispy bits, or drain the fried onions and sage on paper towel for a lighter option.
Flavor Boosters for Cheesy Cauliflower Soup
Spices & Herbs: Add a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika for depth. Fresh thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor beautifully.
Vegetables: Consider adding diced carrots or celery for sweetness and texture.
Protein: Stir in cooked bacon, and ham, for added protein.
Add more flavor: A splash of gluten-free Worcestershire sauce or truffle oil to enhance the flavors.
Texture: Top with pumpkin or sunflower seeds for more crunch.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like Gruyère, smoked Gouda, for a more complex flavor.
To make your Cheesy Cauliflower Soup heartier, serve it with a slice of gluten-free bread. Here are some choices:
Common mistakes to avoid when making Cheesy Cauliflower Soup:
Overcooking the Cauliflower: Cooking it too long can make the soup mushy. Aim for tender but not falling apart.
Not Seasoning Early: Waiting until the end to add salt and pepper can lead to flavorless cauliflower. Season the broth while cooking.
Blending Too Quickly: If you blend while the soup is too hot, it can splatter. Allow it to cool slightly before blending, or use an immersion blender.
Using Low-Quality Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can lead to a grainy texture due to anti-caking agents. Freshly grated cheese melts better.
Skipping the Cream: If you want a creamy texture, don’t skip the heavy cream. Alternatively, use a blend of cream and milk for a lighter option.
Boiling soup after adding cream: High heat can cause the fat in the cream to separate from the liquid, resulting in a curdled appearance and texture. Gently heat the soup after adding cream and cheese, keeping it at a simmer rather than a boil.
Ignoring Texture: If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only part of the mixture and leave some cauliflower intact.
Not Tasting as You Go: Always taste during the cooking process to adjust flavors, especially after adding cheese.
Storing
Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation, then store in the fridge for 3-4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers. It can last for about 2 months in the freezer.
When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or microwave. You may need to add a splash of water, broth, or cream if the soup is too thick.
Why is This a Gourmet Cheesy Cauliflower Soup
This Cheesy Cauliflower Soup has a gourmet-style creamy texture with rich cheesy and herb flavors that make it addictively delicious. The velvety cauliflower base is enhanced by sharp cheddar cheese and fresh herbs, creating a comforting warmth perfect for chilly days.
Topped with crispy sage and onions, the soup has a satisfying crunch with a hint of herb flavor, adding another layer of deliciousness. And, it’s a go-to dish for any night of the week or for entertaining.
Cheesy Cauliflower Soup with Crispy Sage-Onion Topping
Sauté the onions and garlic in a large pot until translucent.
2.
Add the cauliflower, potato cubes, broth, and sage leaves. Season with salt and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer until the cauliflower is tender about 10 minutes.
3.
Blend using an immersion blender or blender until smooth or you reach the desired texture. Keep the soup at a simmer rather than a boil, then stir in cheese, cream, and mustard. Simmer until the cheese has melted, about 2 minutes, (do not boil the soup). Stir in chives and green onions if using. Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4.
Crispy Sage and Onion Topping:
5.
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the sliced onions in a single layer. Fry, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 10-15 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.
6.
In the last minute of frying, add the sage leaves to the skillet. Cook until they are crispy and fragrant.
7.
Drain or Not: I like to top my soup with the infused oil and the sage and onions. However, you can remove the fried onions and sage from the skillet, and drain them on a paper towel. Sprinkle with a little extra salt if desired.
8.
Sprinkle the sage and onions on top of the soup just before serving for a delicious crunch!
Nutrition Info
Nutritional Value Per Serving (1/6) | Calories: 320 g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 24g | Carbohydrates: 20g | Dietary Fiber: 3g | Sugars: 4g | Sodium: 800mg | Note: This calculation is approximate and can vary based on specific brands and variations in ingredient quantities.
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