Mary Berry's Cauliflower Soup
Mary Berry's Cauliflower Soup stands out as a comforting and nutritious dish that perfectly embodies the simplicity and elegance of classic British cooking. This recipe, favored for its creamy texture and rich flavor profile, offers a delightful blend of roasted cauliflower, aromatic shallots, and garlic, all brought together with the warmth of thyme and the umami depth of miso paste. It's a testament to Mary Berry's philosophy of using simple ingredients to create heartwarming meals.
Ingredients for the Cauliflower Soup
To recreate Mary Berry's celebrated Cauliflower Soup, you'll need the following:
- Cauliflower (about 900g or 2 lbs), including the stem, for a full-bodied flavor.
- Shallots and garlic, to add a layer of depth and warmth.
- Extra-virgin olive oil for roasting and blending into the soup.
- Vegetable broth to form the soup base.
- Fresh thyme, white miso paste, and Dijon mustard for a complex flavor profile.
- Lemon juice for a hint of brightness.
- Seasonings: sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Optional: Microgreens for garnish.
Preparation Instructions
- Roasting the Vegetables: Begin by heating your oven and preparing a baking sheet for the cauliflower, seasoned and arranged for even roasting along with shallots and garlic.
- Simmering: Combine the roasted vegetables with vegetable broth and thyme in a pot, simmering to infuse the flavors.
- Blending: After cooling slightly, blend the mixture with lemon juice, mustard, and olive oil to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Seasoning: Adjust the taste with additional salt and lemon juice as needed, ready to be served with or without microgreens.
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Store in a sealed container for up to 4-5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in a suitable container.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring until heated through.
Nutritional Information
Each serving offers a balanced nutritional profile, emphasizing the health benefits of cauliflower:
- Calories: 129
- Fat: 5.5g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 5.4g
This dish is not only a celebration of flavors but also a source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
FAQ about the Cauliflower Soup
- Can I make it vegan? Yes, by ensuring all ingredients, including the miso paste and broth, are plant-based.
- What if my soup is too thick? You can adjust the consistency by adding a bit more broth or water during the blending process.
- Can I use frozen cauliflower? Fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but frozen can be used as a convenient alternative.
Mary Berry's Cauliflower Soup is more than just a meal; it's a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for any day of the year. Whether served as a starter or a main, its rich yet delicate flavors promise to delight and comfort. For those who appreciate recipes that blend simplicity with sophistication, this cauliflower soup is a must-try. Remember, the original recipe to Mary Berry adds an authentic touch to your culinary exploration, ensuring a delightful experience with every spoonful.