Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy, and delicious soup that combines the goodness of cauliflower with the irresistible flavor of cheese, Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup is the perfect recipe to try. It’s simple, hearty, and absolutely satisfying, especially for chilly days.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup

Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup is a rich and velvety soup that marries the mild flavor of cauliflower with a cheesy, creamy base. Inspired by the classic cauliflower cheese dish, this soup is a twist on the traditional comfort food, offering a smooth, indulgent experience with every spoonful.

The recipe uses wholesome ingredients like cauliflower, onions, garlic, and a blend of cheeses to create a soup that is as comforting as it is nutritious. It’s an easy-to-make, one-pot wonder that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread for a fulfilling meal.

Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 medium cauliflower – The star of the dish, providing that rich, earthy flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the onions and garlic.
• 1 onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the soup base.
• 2 cloves garlic – For a punch of aromatic flavor.
• 750 ml vegetable stock – A good base for the soup’s liquid that enhances its savory taste.
• 200 ml milk – To help create that creamy consistency.
• 100 g mature cheddar cheese – The star cheese that gives the soup its distinctive tang and richness.
• 50 g Parmesan cheese – For an extra layer of umami and depth of flavor.
• Salt and pepper – For seasoning to taste.
• Optional: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of extra olive oil – To garnish and add a finishing touch of freshness.

Equipment Needed

Making Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup is a simple process and doesn’t require any fancy equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large pot or saucepan – To cook the soup and bring everything together.
• Knife and chopping board – For chopping the cauliflower, onion, and garlic.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the ingredients as you cook.
• Blender or immersion blender – To blend the soup until it reaches a creamy, smooth texture. An immersion blender is especially handy, as you can blend the soup directly in the pot.
• Cheese grater – To grate the cheddar and Parmesan cheese.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup?

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   Begin by chopping the cauliflower into florets and finely chopping the onion and garlic.

2. Cook the Vegetables:
   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Then, toss in the cauliflower florets and stir to coat them with the onion and garlic mixture.

3. Simmer the Soup:
   Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook the vegetables for about 15-20 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender when pierced with a fork.

4. Blend the Soup:
   Once the cauliflower is tender, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you’re using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches.

5. Add the Cheese:
   Return the soup to the heat, and stir in the grated cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until the cheese melts into the soup, creating a luscious and creamy texture. Add salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Ladle the soup into bowls, and optionally, garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Expert Tips

• Texture Tip: If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of the cauliflower mixture, leaving the rest of the soup with a bit of texture. This adds a nice contrast between creamy and chunky elements.
• Cheese Variations: While mature cheddar and Parmesan work perfectly, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Vegan Option: For a dairy-free version, replace the cheese with vegan cheese and use coconut milk or almond milk for the creamy texture. You could also add a spoonful of nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor.
• Make Ahead: This soup is perfect for meal prepping! You can make it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Simply reheat before serving.

Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup is a fantastic choice if you want to enjoy a bowl of comfort on a cold day. It’s quick, easy to prepare, and loaded with rich, cheesy flavor that will warm you from the inside out.

The creamy texture, coupled with the slight tang of mature cheddar and the earthiness of cauliflower, makes this soup a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this soup will surely be a hit. Try it today, and indulge in a bowl of cozy goodness that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup

Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup is a comforting and creamy dish that is perfect for those chilly days. However, it’s a flexible recipe that can easily be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Let’s dive into some easy and exciting variations to elevate this soup and bring a fresh twist to the table.

1. Vegan Cauliflower Cheese Soup:
   If you’re following a plant-based diet or have dairy sensitivities, making this soup vegan-friendly is a breeze. Substitute the regular cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives. Use dairy-free butter (such as coconut or olive oil) and swap out the cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast, which will provide a cheesy, savory flavor. For creaminess, opt for coconut milk or cashew cream.

2. Spicy Cauliflower Cheese Soup:
   If you’re a fan of bold flavors, add some heat to your soup. You can incorporate a bit of chili powder or cayenne pepper into the base. For more depth of flavor, try adding fresh chopped red chilies, smoked paprika, or a touch of hot sauce. The spice will pair wonderfully with the creamy richness of the cauliflower cheese.

3. Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Cheese Soup:
   Adding roasted garlic will give your soup a deeper, sweeter flavor. Simply roast a few garlic cloves in the oven until soft and golden brown, then blend them into the soup for an extra layer of flavor. This variation adds complexity to the soup without overwhelming the delicate cauliflower taste.

4. Cheese Lovers’ Cauliflower Cheese Soup:
   For those who want to take the cheesy aspect to the next level, consider mixing different types of cheese. Combine sharp cheddar with Gruyère for a nutty, melt-in-your-mouth texture. You can also incorporate some parmesan for that lovely umami boost. To really make it indulgent, sprinkle some extra cheese on top before baking the soup until golden and bubbling.

5. Cauliflower Cheese and Leek Soup:
   Adding leeks to your cauliflower cheese soup can introduce a delicate sweetness and depth of flavor. The leeks will also enhance the overall creaminess of the soup. Simply sauté the leeks along with the onions at the beginning, and blend them into the soup for an extra aromatic base.

6. Cauliflower Cheese and Bacon Soup:
   If you enjoy the classic combination of cheese and bacon, consider adding crispy bacon bits to your cauliflower cheese soup. The salty, crispy bacon will provide a delightful contrast to the smooth, creamy texture of the soup. For an added touch, drizzle a little bacon fat into the soup for an even richer flavor.

These variations can help you tailor Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower cheese soup to your tastes, dietary needs, and preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment and combine different ingredients to create a personalized version of this delightful dish.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftover cauliflower cheese soup can be a comforting meal the next day, but proper storage is crucial to maintain its flavor and texture. Here are some best practices for storing leftovers:

1. Cool it down first: Allow your soup to cool to room temperature before storing it. Placing hot soup directly into the fridge can raise the temperature inside the fridge, which may encourage bacterial growth. Cooling the soup ensures it remains safe to eat and maintains its freshness.
2. Use airtight containers: To prevent the soup from absorbing other odors in the fridge and to keep it fresh, store it in airtight containers. Glass containers with tightly sealing lids work best, as they don’t retain odors or stains as plastic containers might.
3. Refrigeration: Cauliflower cheese soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply place the cooled soup in an airtight container and store it on the middle shelf of the fridge.
4. Freezing: If you have a large batch of leftover soup, freezing is an excellent option. However, keep in mind that the texture of the soup may change slightly once it’s frozen due to the cheese and cream. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
5. Reheating: When reheating your leftover soup, it’s best to do so slowly on the stove over medium heat. Stir it regularly to ensure it heats evenly. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of milk, broth, or water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.

By following these practices, you can extend the life of your cauliflower cheese soup and enjoy it multiple times without compromising on flavor or safety.

What Goes Well With Cauliflower Cheese Soup?

Cauliflower cheese soup is a rich and indulgent dish on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the meal. Here are some ideas for what goes well with cauliflower cheese soup:

1. Crusty Bread: The classic pairing! A thick slice of crusty bread, such as sourdough or a rustic baguette, is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. The bread helps soak up the soup and adds a satisfying crunch. You can even lightly toast it for an extra touch.
2. Garlic Bread: For a more indulgent side, garlic bread makes a flavorful pairing with cauliflower cheese soup. The garlic and butter flavors are a wonderful match for the cheesy richness of the soup. A sprinkle of parsley can add freshness to the dish.
3. Salad: A fresh, vibrant salad can balance the richness of the soup. Opt for a simple salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. You can also add roasted vegetables, such as carrots, beets, or sweet potatoes, for a hearty touch.
4. Roasted Vegetables: For a more filling side dish, roasted vegetables like brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or carrots can bring a slight sweetness and earthy flavor that complements the soup’s creamy texture.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: If you’re looking for something extra comforting, a grilled cheese sandwich alongside your cauliflower cheese soup is a perfect pairing. The crispy, buttery sandwich adds crunch and richness, making it a heartwarming combination.
6. Pickles or Chutneys: The tangy flavor of pickles or chutneys can cut through the richness of the soup and provide a delightful contrast. Opt for a sharp pickle, such as dill or cornichons, or serve a tangy apple chutney for a burst of sweetness.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower cheese soup is a warm, comforting dish that can be easily personalized through various recipe variations. Whether you’re looking to make it vegan, add a spicy kick, or boost the cheesy factor, the recipe can be adapted to suit every palate.

Properly storing leftovers ensures that you can enjoy the soup over several days, and pairing it with complementary sides-like crusty bread, fresh salad, or roasted vegetables-turns it into a full meal. With a little creativity and a few tweaks, this classic soup can remain a staple in your kitchen, offering endless possibilities for flavor and texture.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients For Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup?

The main ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower cheese soup include cauliflower, onion, garlic, butter, flour, milk, vegetable stock, and cheddar cheese. Additional seasonings like salt, pepper, and mustard may also be used for extra flavor.

How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup?

The total time to make Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower cheese soup is approximately 40 minutes. This includes around 10 minutes for prep work and 30 minutes for cooking.

Can I Use A Different Cheese In Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup?

Yes, you can use other types of cheese like Gruyère, Parmesan, or a mix of different cheeses. However, cheddar cheese is recommended for its rich, creamy flavor that complements the cauliflower well.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup Vegetarian?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower cheese soup can easily be made vegetarian by using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Ensure all other ingredients are plant-based as well, such as using a non-dairy butter or milk if preferred.

Is It Possible To Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply defrost it overnight in the fridge and heat on the stove. Be aware that the texture of the cheese may change slightly after freezing.

Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower Instead Of Fresh Cauliflower In Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh. Just be sure to thaw it first, and cook it slightly longer to ensure it softens properly.

What Can I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup?

Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower cheese soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even some garlic bread for a hearty meal.

How Do I Make The Soup Thicker If It’s Too Runny?

If the soup turns out too runny, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a few more minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can add a slurry of flour and water or blend some of the soup to create a thicker consistency.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can make Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower cheese soup in a slow cooker. Simply sauté the onion, garlic, and flour first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours until the cauliflower is tender. Finish with the cheese once it’s done cooking.

What Type Of Mustard Should I Use In Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Soup?

Jamie Oliver often uses Dijon mustard in his cauliflower cheese soup for a subtle, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the cheese. However, you can adjust the type of mustard to your preference, such as using wholegrain mustard for a more robust taste.