Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Soup Recipe

Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Soup offers a comforting, nourishing bowl of warmth perfect for any day of the year. This recipe transforms the humble cauliflower into a smooth, velvety soup that’s both simple and sophisticated, making it an excellent choice for a casual family dinner or a cozy meal with friends.

In this article, I will show you how to make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Soup step by step, with tips and tricks along the way.

What is Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Soup Recipe?

Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Soup is a variation of the traditional cauliflower soup, which is usually made with just cauliflower, onion, garlic, butter, flour, milk, and chicken or vegetable stock. Jamie Oliver adds some extra ingredients and steps to make this soup more flavorful and interesting. This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be prepared in approximately 30 to 40 minutes

Other Soup Recipes

• Mary Berry Cauliflower and Cheese Soup
• Nigella Cauliflower Soup
• James Martin Broccoli And Stilton Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons to love this recipe, such as:

• Ease of Preparation: The recipe requires straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients, ensuring a hassle-free cooking experience.
• Health Benefits: Cauliflower, the star of the dish, is a powerhouse of nutrients, offering a good source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, with potential anti-inflammatory and cancer-preventive properties.
• Customizability: The recipe encourages personalization, allowing cooks to tweak it based on dietary restrictions or taste preferences, including dairy-free and vegan options.
• Delicious Taste: The combination of roasted cauliflower with herbs, cheese, and a hint of nutmeg creates a deeply satisfying soup that’s both comforting and flavorful.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Soup

To make Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 large cauliflower, cut into small florets
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 4 cups of chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 cup of milk
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 sprig of rosemary
• A pinch of nutmeg
• 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese, plus extra for serving
• 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley, plus extra for serving

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Soup Recipe

To make this soup, follow these steps:

Step 1: Roast the cauliflower

• Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F (350°F fan).
• In a large baking tray, toss the cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, and cumin seeds, until well coated.
• Spread the cauliflower in an even layer on the tray, and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden and tender, turning halfway through.

Step 2: Cook the onion and garlic

• In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt the butter and cook the onion and garlic for 10 to 15 minutes, or until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
• Add the flour and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux.

Step 3: Add the stock, milk, and herbs

• Gradually whisk in the stock and milk, stirring well to avoid any lumps.
• Add the bay leaf, rosemary, and nutmeg, and bring the soup to a boil.
• Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Blend the soup

• Remove the bay leaf and rosemary from the soup, and discard them.
• Using a hand blender or a food processor, blend the soup until smooth and creamy, leaving some chunks of cauliflower for texture and bite. You can also leave the soup as it is, if you prefer a chunkier soup.
• Season the soup with salt and pepper, to taste.

Step 5: Serve the soup

• Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with some grated cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, if desired.
• Enjoy your Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Soup with some crusty bread, crackers, or croutons, or as a standalone meal.

What Do I Serve With Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Soup?

When serving Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Soup, the right accompaniments can transform it from a simple dish into a sumptuous meal.

Here are refined suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

• Bread: Enhance the soup with a selection of artisanal breads such as sourdough, baguette, ciabatta, or whole wheat. For added gourmet flair, lightly toast the bread and brush it with garlic-infused butter, offering a delightful blend of crunch and aromatic flavor.
• Crackers: Pair the soup with a variety of crackers—opt for classic saltines, buttery Ritz, or hearty wheat thins. Elevate the experience by topping the crackers with a smear of gourmet cheese, a dollop of artisanal jam, or a rich, flavorful hummus for a satisfying crunch.
• Croutons: Homemade croutons add a personalized touch to the soup. Cube your favorite bread and toss with olive oil, sea salt, cracked pepper, and your choice of herbs, then bake until golden. Alternatively, select high-quality store-bought croutons in an array of flavors to add a crunchy texture.
• Salad: A crisp green salad complements the creaminess of the soup beautifully. Mix fresh greens like lettuce, spinach, arugula, or kale with a light dressing of your choice. Embellish with toppings such as shaved parmesan, toasted nuts, fresh fruits, or roasted vegetables for a burst of color and nutrition.
• Sandwich: A well-crafted sandwich serves as a hearty companion to the soup. Consider classic combinations like ham and cheese, turkey and cranberry, tuna salad, or a melty grilled cheese. Alternatively, explore wraps, pitas, or quesadillas filled with your favorite ingredients and sauces for a satisfying meal.

Pro Tips to Make Perfect Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Soup

Achieving perfection in Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Soup involves attention to detail and a few culinary tricks:

• Evenly Cut Cauliflower: For uniform roasting and cooking, chop the cauliflower into consistent, bite-sized florets.
• Spacious Roasting: Use a large baking tray and avoid crowding to ensure the cauliflower roasts evenly, achieving a perfect caramelization.
• Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality olive oil for roasting and finishing, enhancing the soup’s flavor profile.
• Toasted Cumin Seeds: Lightly toast cumin seeds before adding them to the cauliflower. This step unlocks their full aromatic potential, adding depth to the soup.
• Stock Selection: Use low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock to control the soup’s salt content, or consider homemade stock for an even fresher taste.
• Dairy Choices: For a richer, creamier soup, use whole milk or a blend of milk and cream. Dairy-free alternatives like almond, soy, or oat milk cater to vegan preferences without compromising on creaminess.
• Herb and Spice Adjustments: Fresh or dried bay leaf, rosemary, and nutmeg add classic flavors, but don’t hesitate to experiment with thyme, sage, or curry powder for a unique twist.