Cauliflower Cheese Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 litre vegetable broth
• 250ml milk
• 200g cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onions and garlic, and stir well to create a roux. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the roux turns golden brown.
3. Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Add the chopped cauliflower florets to the pot, and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
5. Once the cauliflower is tender, remove the pot from heat.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
7. Return the pot to low heat and stir in the milk, grated cheddar cheese, and dried thyme. Continue to heat the soup until the cheese is melted and the soup is warmed through.
8. Season the Cauliflower Cheese Soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
9. To serve, ladle the creamy soup into bowls, and if desired, garnish with fresh chives.

Enjoy your rich and creamy Cauliflower Cheese Soup, a delightful and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days!