Vegetarian Cauliflower Chowder

Vegetarian Cauliflower Chowder is a creamy, comforting dish brimming with fresh cauliflower, potatoes, carrots, and gentle seasonings. Perfect for a cozy meal, this vegetarian soup offers rich flavor and warmth without any meat.

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This easy-to-follow recipe yields four servings, making it an excellent choice for a family lunch or dinner. The combination of smoked paprika and dried thyme provides a subtle, savory depth that perfectly complements the tender vegetables.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into small florets
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup whole milk (or unsweetened plant-based milk)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp ground white or black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
• Optional: 2 tbsp fresh chives or parsley, chopped
• Optional: Shredded cheese or plant-based cheese

Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté 4–5 minutes until softened.

Step 2

Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Step 3

Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for 2 minutes to cook the flour.

Step 4

Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, ensuring no lumps remain. Add potatoes and cauliflower florets.

Step 5

Season with thyme, smoked paprika, pepper, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until vegetables are very tender.

Step 6

Stir in the milk and simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 7

For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the chowder directly in the pot, or transfer 2 cups to a blender and purée, then return to the pot.

Step 8

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 9

Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives, parsley, or shredded cheese if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To achieve the desired consistency, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the chowder directly in the pot. If you prefer a smoother soup, transfer two cups of the mixture to a countertop blender, purée until smooth, and stir it back into the main pot.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra depth, add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of white wine when adding the broth. To keep the chowder vegan, use plant-based milk and butter. For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free alternative. If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce.

Serviervorschläge

Garnish each bowl with chopped fresh chives or parsley for a bright finish. For added indulgence, top with shredded cheese or plant-based cheese. This chowder is best served hot alongside crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

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This Vegetarian Cauliflower Chowder is a wholesome and warming recipe that is sure to become a favorite for those seeking comfort in a bowl. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, it is the perfect solution for a nutritious and delicious meat-free dinner.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this chowder vegan?

Yes, simply substitute the whole milk with unsweetened plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk, and use vegan butter or olive oil instead of dairy butter.

→ How do I make this chowder gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free all-purpose flour or a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular wheat flour when making the roux.

→ Can I freeze leftover cauliflower chowder?

Yes, this chowder freezes well for up to 3 months. Store in airtight containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, a splash of white wine when adding the broth, or top with shredded cheese. For heat, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste.

→ Should I blend the entire chowder or leave it chunky?

For the best texture, partially blend the chowder using an immersion blender, or blend just 2 cups and return it to the pot. This creates a creamy base while keeping some vegetable chunks intact.

→ What vegetables can I substitute or add?

You can add corn, peas, or diced bell peppers. Parsnips work well in place of some potatoes, and broccoli can complement or substitute for cauliflower.