Cauliflower Soup with Smoked Cheddar

Ingredients:

• 1 large cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 litre vegetable or chicken stock
• 150g smoked cheddar cheese, grated
• 250ml milk
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions: Cauliflower Soup with Smoked Cheddar

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent.
2. Add the cauliflower florets to the pan and stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Sauté for another 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock, covering the cauliflower. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, but be sure to allow it to cool slightly before blending.
5. Return the blended soup to the saucepan. Stir in the milk and grated smoked cheddar cheese. Heat the soup over low heat, stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more milk if desired.
7. Ladle the cauliflower soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh chives.
8. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious Cauliflower Soup with Smoked Cheddar!

This creamy and comforting Cauliflower Soup with Smoked Cheddar makes for a delightful appetizer or a satisfying main course.