Description
Creamy Ham & Cauliflower Soup that is rich and hearty, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 Tbsp vegetable or avocado oil, for cooking
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3/4 lb ham, diced
- 4–5 garlic cloves, pressed
- 2 lb head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 Tbsp all purpose flour
- 1 tsp dried sage
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 1/2 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 oz sharp white cheddar cheese, grated
Instructions
- Cook Ham & Veggies: Start by placing your diced ham, onions, and garlic in a large pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally to avoid any sticking. You will smell savory aromas filling the kitchen.
- Add Cauliflower & Stock: Stir in your cauliflower florets and pour in the chicken stock. As it bubbles, this step adds depth and is crucial for achieving the right consistency. Be mindful not to let it boil over.
- Simmer & Taste: Let everything simmer for about 25 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender. Taste at this point; it should be rich and a bit creamy. Adjust seasoning but do not oversalt, as you can always add more later.
- Blend It Smooth: Carefully blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender. This will transform it into a creamy texture. If using an upright blender, blend in batches to avoid splashing.
- Stir in Cream & Cheese: Once blended, gently stir in the cream and cheese until well combined. Keep it on low heat to avoid curdling, and enjoy the lovely cheesy aroma as it melts.
- Adjust Seasoning & Serve: Taste your soup again and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For freezing, do not add cream and cheese before freezing; add them after reheating.
- Expert Tips: Use fresh cauliflower without dark or soft spots. Thaw frozen cauliflower completely before using. When reheating, use 30-second intervals in the microwave to maintain texture. If the soup is too thick, gradually add more chicken stock or water until desired consistency. If flavor is too mild, increase seasoning or add more ham.
- Reheating Instructions: Reheat leftovers in the microwave using 30-second intervals to avoid overheating.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal, or top with croutons for added crunch. Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
- Recipe Variations: Replace ham with turkey or chicken for different meat flavors, or add diced potatoes for heartiness. Mix in spinach or kale for added nutrition. Use gluten free all-purpose flour as a substitute for regular flour, one-to-one. To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with lactose-free half and half and consider dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Ingredient Notes: Select fresh, firm cauliflower and avoid any that appears wilty. You may substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, although chicken stock is preferred.
Nutrition
- Calories: 536
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 1710mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 108mg