Vegan Cauliflower Soup With Perfect Ingredients For Your Winter Menu

Immerse in a soothing voyage to a world of pure culinary delight with our Vegan cream of cauliflower soup recipe. Embrace the elegance of simplicity, where the humble cauliflower transcends its ordinary roots, evolving into a lush symphony of flavors.

Each spoonful unveils a velvety-rich texture, embodying the wholesome freshness of garden-grown ingredients. This delightful brew, while plant-based, teems with nutrients and unexpected hearty warmth. 

Savor the gentle sweetness, subtly contrasted by a whisper of earthy undertones that tickle your palate. This vegan indulgence is more than a meal—it celebrates nature’s bounty. 

An ode to healthy choices that never compromise on taste. Indulge in the enticing allure of Vegan Cauliflower Soup, a tasteful journey to nourish both body and soul.

Explore our recipe, embrace the green lifestyle, and let your taste buds revel in an experience they will never forget.

What Is Vegan Cauliflower Soup?

Vegan Cauliflower Soup is a delightful dish. It uses simple cauliflower to craft rich flavors. Dairy isn’t needed to make it creamy. It’s perfect for vegan and lactose-intolerant diets. 

Cauliflower, the star, brings a soft, nutty sweetness. Ingredients like garlic, onions, and spices often join the mix. You can personalize it with your favorite herbs or veggies. 

Each comforting bowl brings plant-based indulgence. It nourishes your body. It delights your palate. This is Vegan Cauliflower Soup.

History Of Vegan Cauliflower Soup

Cauliflower soup, with its roots, traced back to European cuisines, has long been a warming comfort dish. 

The vegetable’s versatility and availability made it a staple in many households. However, vegan versions of this classic dish, including Vegan Cauliflower Soup, are a more recent innovation, aligning with the rising global trend towards plant-based diets and increased health consciousness. 

These newer renditions often utilize creative plant-based alternatives like cashews and non-dairy milk to achieve the creaminess of traditional versions derived from dairy. 

The incorporation of diverse species reflects the blending of culinary influences, demonstrating how traditional recipes continue to evolve.

Interesting Facts About Vegan Cauliflower Soup

• Versatile: Vegan Cauliflower Soup is a fantastic base for various herbs, spices, and additional vegetables, allowing creative customization.
• Nutrient-Rich: Cauliflower is a powerhouse of nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, making this soup a nutritious choice.
• Low Calorie: The soup is low in calories yet filling, making it ideal for weight management.
• Creamy without Dairy: Blended cauliflower gives the soup a creamy texture, eliminating the need for dairy products.
• Quick and Easy: The soup can be prepared and cooked within an hour, making it a convenient meal option.
• Freezer-Friendly: Vegan Cauliflower Soup freezes well, allowing easy meal prep and storage.
• Allergy-Friendly: The soup is naturally gluten-free and can be made nut-free, catering to various dietary restrictions.
• Digestive Health: The high fiber content in cauliflower promotes good digestive health.
• Anti-Inflammatory: Cauliflower contains choline, an essential nutrient known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Warming: Despite being light, it’s a warming dish, perfect for colder months.

What Makes The Vegan Cauliflower Soup Special? 

• Dietary Friendliness: Its vegan, gluten-free nature caters to various dietary preferences and restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
• Nutrient-Dense: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, it offers a nutritional punch in every bite.
• Versatility: Its mild flavor pairs well with various ingredients, allowing multiple customizations.
• Easy to Make: It requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it a stress-free cooking experience.
• Creamy Texture: The soup achieves a rich, creamy texture without any dairy, a testament to the power of plant-based foods.
• Comforting: Its warmth and soothing texture make it the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any season.
• Eco-Friendly: By choosing a plant-based meal, you’re positively impacting the environment.
• Delicious: Above all, Vegan Cauliflower Soup is simply delicious, making healthy eating a joy, not a chore.

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Quantity
Cashews	55g (1⁄3 cup)
Cauliflower (cut into florets, stems sliced)	1 head (about 800g)
Olive Oil	2 tablespoons
Garam Masala	1 teaspoon
Leek (trimmed, halved, thinly sliced)	1 leek
Brown Onion (finely chopped)	1 small onion
Celery Sticks (sliced)	2 small sticks
Garlic Cloves (chopped)	2 cloves
Fresh Ginger (peeled, chopped)	3cm-piece
Massel Organic Vegetable Liquid Stock	1L (4 cups)
Unsweetened Almond Coconut Milk	500ml (2 cups)
Chilli Cashew Topping
Olive Oil	1 tablespoon
Cashews (chopped)	1 1⁄2 tablespoons
Long Fresh Red Chilli (thinly sliced)	1 chilli
Turmeric	1⁄2 teaspoon
Fresh Lemon Juice	2 tablespoons

Ingredient Tips 

• Cashews: Soak them in warm water before blending to achieve a smoother texture.
• Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower is best for flavor, but frozen can work in a pinch. Just thaw and drain it well.
• Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil can enhance the flavor profile of your soup.
• Garam Masala: Freshly ground spices make a more aromatic and flavorful soup.
• Leek & Onion: Rinse thoroughly to remove hidden grit, and always use fresh for best results.
• Celery: Opt for a firm, tightly packed celery stalks for the best flavor.
• Garlic & Ginger: Fresh is always best. Mince them finely for a more integrated taste.
• Vegetable Stock: Choose low-sodium stock so that you can control the saltiness of your soup.
• Almond Coconut Milk: If you prefer a nuttier flavor, increase the ratio of almond milk. For a creamier texture, increase coconut milk.
• Chilli Cashew Topping: Adjust the heat to your liking by adding or reducing the amount of fresh chili.
• Turmeric: It can stain, so handle it with care. Its flavor intensifies over time, so leftovers maybe even more flavorful.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed gives the best flavor. It brightens up the soup and enhances the other flavors.

Can You Vary The Vegan Cauliflower Soup With Other Ingredients? 

You can quickly adapt Vegan Cauliflower Soup to suit various dietary needs:

• Vegan: Already a vegan dish; try adding vegan protein sources such as tofu or chickpeas for extra heartiness.
• Vegetarian: All ingredients in this soup are vegetarian-friendly. For additional richness, consider adding a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Add some gluten-free croutons on top for a delightful crunch.
• Paleo: Replace the cashews with almonds, as cashews are not paleo-friendly. Swap the vegetable stock for a homemade bone broth for an extra nutrient boost.
• Keto: Remove the cashews and add healthier fats like coconut cream or oil to maintain ketosis. Ensure to use keto-friendly vegetable stock.
• Whole30: Avoid any form of added sugar in the vegetable broth. You should make your own to ensure compliance. Also, ensure that the almond coconut milk is unsweetened.

Recipe Directions 

• Soak cashews in cold water for 2 hours or overnight. Rinse and drain.
• Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan forced. Line baking tray. Reserve 3 cauliflower florets. Place the rest on the tray. Drizzle with oil. Sprinkle it with garam masala. Roast for 25-30 minutes.
• Heat oil in a saucepan. Cook leek, onion, and celery for 5 minutes. Add garlic and ginger. Cook for 5 minutes.
• Add roasted cauliflower and cashews to the pan. Add stock. Simmer for 15 minutes. Stir in milk. Blend until smooth.
• Make topping. Slice reserved cauliflower—heat oil. Cook cauliflower until golden. Add cashew, chili, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice.
• Serve soup with chili cashew topping and cauliflower florets.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

This versatile soup allows for numerous variations, add-ons, and toppings:

• Protein Boost: Add cooked lentils or chickpeas for a protein-rich twist.
• Herb Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or chives for a burst of freshness.
• Spicy Kick: Swirl in hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes for heat.
• Nutty Flavor: Top with toasted almonds or pecans for a crunchy, nutty note.
• Extra Creaminess: Swirl in some vegan cream or coconut milk before serving for an extra creamy texture.
• Veggies Galore: Roast additional vegetables like carrots or bell peppers along with the cauliflower for added flavor and nutrients.
• Crunch Factor: Add a handful of homemade vegan croutons for a contrasting crunch.
• Cheesy Note: Sprinkle nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
• Kale It Up: Stir chopped kale or spinach at the end for a greens boost.
• Tangy Twist: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving can brightly elevate the flavors.

Scaling The Recipe

Scaling a recipe like the Vegan Cauliflower Soup involves simple mathematics. The primary aspect to keep in mind is maintaining the ratio of ingredients to ensure that the flavor profile and texture of the soup remain consistent.

Scaling Up

• If you need to double the recipe, double every ingredient. For instance, if the recipe calls for 1 head of cauliflower, you would use 2 heads. If it calls for 1L of vegetable stock, you will use 2L, and so on.

Scaling Down

• Similarly, to make a half batch, you would halve each ingredient. So, if the recipe calls for 1 head of cauliflower, you would use half a head. If it calls for 1L of vegetable stock, you would use 500ml, and so on.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

The garnishing for this Vegan Cauliflower Soup recipe is a homemade chili cashew topping, which consists of thinly sliced cauliflower florets, chopped cashews, fresh red chili, turmeric, and fresh lemon juice. 

This garnish adds a delightful crunch and a kick of heat to the soup and brings a bright flavor with turmeric and lemon juice. It’s a great way to add depth and complexity to the dish, making it visually appealing and even more delicious.

Can I Make Vegan Cauliflower Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Yes, you can prepare Vegan Cauliflower Soup in both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot with minor adjustments to the recipe.

Slow Cooker

• Instead of roasting the cauliflower, add it directly to the slow cooker.
• Sauté leek, onion, celery, garlic, and ginger in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker for more depth of flavor.
• Add all other ingredients except milk and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• Stir in the milk towards the end of the cooking time, then blend the mixture until smooth.

Instant Pot

• Use the sauté setting to cook the leek, onion, celery, garlic, and ginger.
• Add the cauliflower, cashews, stock, and garam masala, then secure the lid.
• Please set it to manual high pressure for 10 minutes, then release it naturally.
• Stir in the milk and blend the mixture until smooth.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Both store-bought and homemade broths can be used in the Vegan Cauliflower Soup recipe. It primarily depends on your preference, dietary needs, and available time.

Store-Bought Broth

• This is a convenient and time-saving option. Ensure you choose a high-quality, low-sodium broth for the best results. Opt for an organic, vegan-friendly option if you are following a strict vegan diet. 
• Remember, store-bought broths can vary in taste, so choose one that suits your preference.

Homemade Broth

• Making your vegetable broth allows you to control the ingredients and the sodium content. It often provides a richer, fresher taste. Homemade broth can be made in large quantities and frozen in smaller portions for later use.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup?

Vegan Cauliflower Soup is a plant-based recipe without meat, fish, or dairy products. However, if you are not strictly adhering to a vegan diet, there are some variations you can consider:

• Meat/Fish: Adding cooked chicken, beef, or fish can boost the soup’s non-vegan protein. Just ensure these are cooked separately and added towards the end of cooking.
• Pasta: Small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini could be cooked separately and stirred for a heartier soup. Remember, many pastas aren’t gluten-free or vegan, so choose accordingly.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup. Carrots, potatoes, broccoli, or bell peppers all work well. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making The Soup

Here are some success tips for making Vegan Cauliflower Soup:

Prepping Tips

• Soak Cashews: Soaking cashews in water for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, will ensure a smoother blend.
• Chop Vegetables Evenly: Cut your cauliflower and other vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure they roast and cook evenly.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients as much as possible for the best flavor.

Cooking Tips

• Roast Thoroughly: Make sure your cauliflower is golden and tender when roasting. This will deepen the flavor of the soup.
• Low and Slow: Allow the soup to simmer on low heat. This will help the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to soften perfectly.
• Blend Well: For a smooth and creamy soup, blend well. Depending on the power of your blender, this may take a minute or two.
• Adjust Heat: The cooking times provided are guidelines. You know your stove best, so if you need to adjust the heat higher or lower to achieve the desired results, don’t hesitate.

Nutritional Values  

Vegan Cauliflower Soup serves as a nourishing treat. It’s low in calories yet high in vitamins C and K, courtesy of the cauliflower. The cashews add healthy fats and a protein punch. 

It also offers fiber from its vegetables, promoting digestive health. Though the soup is creamy, it’s dairy-free and low in saturated fat. This soup is a nutritionally balanced, wholesome choice for any meal.

What Are The Total Calories In The Soup?

On an average estimate, a Vegan Cauliflower Soup serving could contain around 100 – 150 kcal. This calculation, however, is a broad approximation, and the actual caloric content could differ based on specific ingredient quantities and brands used in your recipe.

Dietary Restrictions Of Vegan Cauliflower Soup

Given its plant-based ingredients, Vegan Cauliflower Soup is generally suitable for most dietary restrictions. However, here’s a breakdown:

• Vegan and Vegetarian: This soup is entirely plant-based, making it perfect for vegans and vegetarians.
• Gluten-Free: The soup is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain wheat or other gluten-containing ingredients.
• Nut Allergies: The soup has cashews, so it’s unsuitable for people with nut allergies unless you omit the cashews or substitute them with a non-nut alternative.
• Soy-Free: As long as the vegetable broth used is soy-free, the soup should be suitable for those avoiding soy.
• Low FODMAP: The soup contains ingredients such as cauliflower, onion, and garlic, which are high FODMAP foods, so it may not be suitable for people following a low FODMAP diet.
• Paleo and Whole30: The soup might not be ideal for these diets due to the presence of legumes (cashews). Substituting with a compliant ingredient would be necessary.

Health Benefits Of Vegan Cauliflower Soup

Vegan Cauliflower Soup provides several health benefits due to its nutrient-rich ingredients:

• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Cauliflower is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, notably high in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate. It also contains essential antioxidants that can boost overall health.
• High in Fiber: Cauliflower, leeks, onions, and celery are high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes satiety, and helps maintain a healthy weight.
• Low in Calories: This soup is a low-calorie dish, making it an excellent choice for those watching their calorie intake.
• Heart Healthy: Using olive oil and cashews provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which can support heart health.
• Boosts Immunity: With high levels of Vitamin C from cauliflower, this soup may help strengthen the immune system.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Cauliflower contains choline and other anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help reduce inflammation.
• Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free: It’s an excellent choice for those with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivities.
• Protein Source: The cashews add a modest amount of plant-based protein to the soup.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Vegan Cauliflower Soup Lower In Sodium? 

If you’re following a low-sodium diet, there are several modifications you can make to the Vegan Cauliflower Soup recipe to reduce its sodium content:

• Use Low-Sodium Broth: Choose a low-sodium or unsalted vegetable broth. This can significantly reduce the sodium content of your soup.
• Skip Added Salt: Most recipes call for added salt for flavoring. You can skip this or reduce the amount. Remember, always add a pinch of salt to your bowl if needed.
• Spice It Up: Use more herbs and spices to enhance flavor without adding sodium. Fresh herbs, black pepper, garlic, onion, and spices like turmeric or cumin can add many flavors without the extra sodium.
• Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables instead of canned or preserved ones, which often contain added salt.
• Read Labels: If using store-bought ingredients, always read the labels to check the sodium content.

How Can I Make Vegan Cauliflower Soup Lower In Sugar?

As provided, the Vegan Cauliflower Soup recipe doesn’t contain any added sugars, making it already suitable for a diabetic-friendly diet.

The sugar content comes naturally from the vegetables used. However, if you want to reduce any potential sugars further, you can consider the following:

• Watch Your Milk Substitute: Some almond and coconut milk can contain added sugars, so use unsweetened versions.
• Use Low-Sugar Vegetables: While cauliflower, leek, and celery are already low in sugar, if you’re adding other vegetables, opt for those that are low in sugar, such as spinach, zucchini, bell peppers, or tomatoes.
• Avoid Sweet Spices: Some spices can add sweetness to the soup. Stick to savory spices like turmeric, black pepper, or paprika.
• No Added Sweeteners: Avoid recipes for added sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

How To Serve The Vegan Cauliflower Soup At Its Best?

Serving Vegan Cauliflower Soup is about more than just the soup itself. Here are some tips to present and serve this delicious dish in the best way:

• Bowl Selection: Serve in a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the soup’s creamy texture and vibrant garnish.
• Garnish: Don’t skip the chili cashew topping. It adds a contrasting texture and color that makes the soup more appetizing.
• Bread Pairing: Offer a side of crusty bread or a gluten-free alternative. It’s great for dipping and adds a satisfying crunch.
• Portion Size: Don’t overfill the bowls. A modest portion looks more elegant and leaves room for the bread on the side.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving for a color contrast and freshness.
• Serve Hot: Ensure the soup is served hot. It enhances the flavors and creates a comforting experience.
• Add Variety: If serving at a larger meal, pair with a colorful salad or hearty sandwich to provide a balanced and varied spread.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Vegan Cauliflower Soup Recipe

The Vegan Cauliflower Soup can be a standalone meal. Still, it’s versatile enough to pair well with various side dishes, whether you like a sandwich, salad, or a light first course. Here are a few suggestions:

• Sandwiches: Try a grilled vegetable sandwich or a vegan chickpea salad sandwich for a hearty accompaniment.
• Salads: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette, an arugula and apple salad with a lemon dressing, or a tomato and cucumber salad would pair well.
• First Course: Consider lighter options such as bruschetta with various vegan toppings, stuffed mushrooms, or a simple avocado and tomato salad.
• Bread: Crusty whole-grain, gluten-free, or even garlic bread (made with vegan butter or olive oil) would be fantastic for dipping.
• Roasted Veggies: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes would complement the soup’s flavors.

How Long Can We Store The Soup?

Vegan Cauliflower Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. Let it cool down completely before storing it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.

It can be frozen for 2-3 months if you want to store it longer. To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space at the top of the container or bag, as the soup will expand when frozen.

To reheat, defrost overnight in the refrigerator and then warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If reheating from frozen, use a lower heat and allow extra time, stirring regularly to ensure even heating.

Can I Make Soup In Advance?

Vegan Cauliflower Soup is a great make-ahead meal. If you want to prepare it in advance, follow these steps:

• Follow the recipe instructions to make the soup. Let it cool entirely after blending.
• Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days, or freeze it for more extended storage (up to 2-3 months).
• When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated.
• Prepare the chili cashew topping fresh before serving and sprinkle it on top of the reheated soup.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

Leftover Vegan Cauliflower Soup can be incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas:

• Reheat and Eat: The easiest option is to reheat the soup on the stovetop or in a microwave, stirring occasionally, and enjoy it as is.
• Freeze for Later: You can freeze leftover soup in portions for quick, easy future meals. Remember to reheat thoroughly before eating.
• Use as a Sauce: Blend the soup until it’s smooth and use it as a sauce for pasta, grain bowls, or roasted vegetables.
• Add to a Stir-fry: Add the soup to a vegetable stir-fry as a sauce. It will add a delicious creamy flavor to your veggies.
• Mix into a Casserole: Use the soup as a base for a vegan casserole, adding in grains, vegetables, and perhaps some beans or tofu for protein.
• Use as a Base for Another Soup: Add different vegetables, legumes, or grains to create a new flavor profile.
• Create a Dip: Thicken the soup by reducing it on the stove and use it as a dip for raw vegetables or whole grain crackers.

Special Tools/Equipment Needed

Making Vegan Cauliflower Soup requires some essential kitchen tools and equipment. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• Large Baking Tray: This is necessary for roasting the cauliflower.
• Large Saucepan: A big pot is required to sauté the vegetables and simmer the soup.
• Blender or Immersion Blender: These tools are essential for pureeing the soup to the right consistency. An immersion blender (a stick blender) can blend the soup directly into the pot, making it convenient.
• Knife and Cutting Board: These are required for chopping vegetables.
• Bowls: You’ll need a bowl to soak the cashews and additional bowls for preparing the ingredients and serving the soup.
• Frying Pan: A small frying pan will prepare the chili cashew topping.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: These will ensure you’re using the correct amounts of each ingredient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower Instead Of Fresh Cauliflower For This Recipe?

Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used if fresh is not available. However, roasting times may vary as frozen cauliflower might contain more moisture.

Can I Replace Cashews With Any Other Nuts In This Recipe?

Cashews are preferred for their creamy texture when blended. However, blanched almonds could be a substitute. Bear in mind the texture and flavor may vary.

Is It Necessary To Use Both Almond And Coconut Milk?

The combination of almond and coconut milk adds a unique creaminess to the soup. However, you can use either one or substitute with another non-dairy milk if desired.

What If I Don’t Have Garam Masala?

Garam masala can be replaced with cumin, coriander, and a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg. Alternatively, curry powder could be used for a different but equally delicious flavor.

I Don’t Have A Stick Blender. How Else Can I Blend The Soup?

If a stick blender is not available, a regular countertop blender can be used. Cool the soup slightly before blending to avoid steam buildup, and blend in batches if necessary. Be cautious while handling hot soup.