This vegan roasted cauliflower soup is creamy, flavorful, and easy to make. Roasting the cauliflower enhances its natural sweetness and adds depth to the soup. Here’s how to prepare it:

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 pounds), cut into bite-size florets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 medium onion, chopped (yellow or red)
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup canned lite coconut milk (or any non-dairy milk)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley) for garnish
• Lemon juice to taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

Roast the Cauliflower:

• On a baking sheet, toss the cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Spread them out in a single layer and roast for about 20 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned. Add the garlic cloves for the last 10 minutes of roasting.

Sauté the Onions:

• In a large pot, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Ingredients:

• Add the roasted cauliflower and garlic (remove skins from garlic) to the pot with the onions.
• Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Blend the Soup:

• Remove from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer it in batches to a blender.

Add Creaminess:

• Stir in the coconut milk (or non-dairy milk) and smoked paprika if using. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.

Serve:

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Enhancements for Vegan Roasted Cauliflower Soup

Additional Vegetables for Extra Flavor

You can add various vegetables to enhance the flavor of your roasted cauliflower soup:

• Carrots: Sweetness and color.
• Leeks: Adds a mild onion flavor.
• Potatoes: For added creaminess and heartiness.
• Celery: Contributes a subtle crunch and flavor.
• Parsnips: Offers a sweet, earthy taste.
• Spinach or Kale: For added nutrition and color.

Substituting Coconut Milk

You can substitute coconut milk with other creamy ingredients. Some options include:

• Cashew Cream: Blend soaked cashews with water for a rich, creamy texture.
• Silken Tofu: Blend until smooth for a protein-rich alternative.
• Nut Butters (like almond or tahini): Mix with water to create a creamy consistency.
• Greek Yogurt: If not vegan, it can add creaminess and tang.

Making the Soup Thicker and Creamier

To achieve a thicker and creamier soup, consider these methods:

• Add More Vegetables: Incorporate starchy vegetables like potatoes or additional cauliflower.
• Blend in More Cashews or Silken Tofu: This increases creaminess without altering the flavor significantly.
• Use Cornstarch or Arrowroot Powder: Mix with a little water to create a slurry, then stir into the soup while it’s simmering until thickened.

Good Toppings for Vegan Roasted Cauliflower Soup

Here are some delicious toppings to enhance your soup:

• Toasted Pumpkin Seeds or Sunflower Seeds: Adds crunch and nutrition.
• Fresh Herbs (like parsley or cilantro): Brightens the flavor.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil or Truffle Oil: For richness.
• Croutons or Breadsticks: For texture and dipping.
• Chili Flakes or Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a kick.

Using Different Types of Broth

You can use different types of broth to create various flavor profiles. Consider:

• Mushroom Broth: Adds an earthy depth.
• Garlic Broth: Enhances the overall flavor with a garlic punch.
• Herb-infused Broth (like thyme or rosemary): Provides aromatic notes.
• Tomato Broth: For a tangy twist that complements the cauliflower.

This vegan roasted cauliflower soup is perfect as a comforting meal on its own or served alongside crusty bread for dipping! Enjoy!