This rich and velvety Creamy Vegan Cauliflower Soup combines the earthy flavors of cauliflower with the sweet depth of caramelized onions and the indulgent, silky texture of coconut milk. Completely dairy-free, this soup is both filling and nutrient-packed, offering a comforting, plant-based option for any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a light starter, pairing it with sides for a full meal, or making it a part of your meal prep, this soup will quickly become a favorite. Its simple ingredients and easy steps make it the perfect choice for cozy dinners or a weekly rotation of healthy dishes.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 large cauliflower floret (cut into small florets)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 sweet onion, chopped
- 5 garlic cloves, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 13 oz canned full-fat coconut milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Stovetop Method:
-
Prep the Cauliflower
- Wash the cauliflower and cut it into small florets.
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Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- Heat olive oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add chopped garlic and onion.
- Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onion is browned and fragrant.
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Cook the Cauliflower
- Add cauliflower florets, dried thyme, and vegetable broth to the pan.
- Simmer on low heat for 9-15 minutes until the cauliflower is tender.
-
Blend the Soup
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend to your desired consistency.
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Add Coconut Milk
- Stir in the coconut milk and cook for 2-3 more minutes.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Instant Pot Method:
-
Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- Turn on the Instant Pot and sauté garlic and onion in olive oil for 1-2 minutes.
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Pressure Cook the Soup
- Add cauliflower florets, thyme, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper.
- Seal the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 6-8 minutes.
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Blend and Serve
- Once the cooking time is complete, release the pressure.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Serve immediately.
Serving Ideas
- Toppings: For extra flavor and texture, top your soup with roasted cauliflower, fresh herbs, vegan cheese, or a sprinkle of paprika.
- Side Dishes: Pair it with crusty bread, a fresh vegan sandwich, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips
- Extra Flavor: For an added depth of flavor, consider roasting the cauliflower before adding it to the soup.
- Frozen Cauliflower: If fresh cauliflower isn’t available, frozen cauliflower works just as well in this recipe.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of vegetable broth slightly. If you want a thinner soup, simply add more broth.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 228 kcal
- Carbs: 15g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 19g
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of milk instead of coconut milk?
Yes, you can substitute coconut milk with other plant-based milks, such as almond milk, oat milk, or cashew milk. However, using coconut milk gives the soup its signature creamy and rich texture.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.
3. Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or parsnips to the soup for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is tender.
4. Is this soup suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. It is a great option for anyone following a gluten-free diet.
5. How can I make this soup spicier?
To add a bit of heat to the soup, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, a chopped fresh chili, or a dash of hot sauce when cooking. Adjust to your desired spice level!
Conclusion
This Creamy Vegan Cauliflower Soup is the perfect comfort food, combining the earthiness of cauliflower and the creamy richness of coconut milk into a hearty and satisfying dish. It’s not only delicious but also vegan and dairy-free, making it a versatile and healthy choice. Serve it as a light meal or pair it with your favorite sides for a more substantial dinner.