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Classic French Cauliflower Soup with Brown Butter

Maria KostoffMaria Kostoff
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Classic French Cauliflower Soup with Brown Butter1 / 2
Creamy cauliflower soup, often known as cauliflower velouté in French cuisine, is a refined yet simple dish that has become increasingly popular in both the US and the UK. Its smooth texture and naturally mild flavor make it a perfect comfort food, especially during colder months.
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Preparation
15 min.
Cooking
30 min.
Тotal
45 min.
Servings
4
French creamy cauliflower soup with butter and croutons - smooth, rich, and perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

  • For the soup
  • cauliflower - 700 g (24.7 oz)
  • potatoes - 200 g (7 oz)
  • onion - 120 g (4.2 oz)
  • garlic - 2 cloves (about 6 g / 0.2 oz)
  • vegetable broth - 900 ml (30.4 fl oz)
  • cooking cream - 150 ml (5.1 fl oz)
  • butter - 60 g (2.1 oz)
  • olive oil - 1 tbsp (15 ml / 0.5 fl oz)
  • salt - to taste
  • white pepper - to taste
  • nutmeg - 1 pinch
  • For the toasted slices
  • baguette - 1 small (about 200 g / 7 oz)
  • yellow cheese (cheddar style) - 120 g (4.2 oz)
  • butter - 20 g (0.7 oz)
measures

How to make

Start by preparing the vegetables. Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic. Cut the cauliflower into small florets and peel the potatoes, then dice them into medium-sized cubes.

In a large pot, heat the olive oil together with about 20 g (0.7 oz) of the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté gently until it becomes soft and translucent. Then add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Add the cauliflower florets and diced potatoes to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until all vegetables are completely tender.

Once the vegetables are soft, blend the soup until smooth and velvety using an immersion blender or a countertop blender. Return the soup to the pot if needed.

Add the cooking cream, salt, white pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir well and let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to fully develop its flavor.

In a small pan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Let it cook until it turns golden brown and develops a light nutty aroma - this is the classic French beurre noisette. Remove it immediately from the heat to avoid burning.

Slice the baguette into pieces, lightly butter them, and sprinkle with grated yellow cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) until golden and crispy.

Serve the soup hot, drizzled with the brown butter and accompanied by the cheesy toasted slices.

Give it a try and experience the elegance of French comfort food! Don’t miss our creamy vegetable milk soup, flavorful cauliflower steaks with salsa, and these light cauliflower patties.

Recipe FAQ

What is French cauliflower soup?

It is a smooth and creamy soup made with cauliflower, often enriched with butter and cream.

How do you make cauliflower soup creamy?

Blend it thoroughly and add cream for a rich and velvety texture.

Can I make this soup without cream?

Yes, but it will be less rich and slightly lighter in texture.

What is beurre noisette?

It is browned butter with a nutty aroma used in French cooking.

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, it will add a deeper flavor to the soup.

How long does cauliflower soup last in the fridge?

Up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I freeze cauliflower soup?

Yes, but it is best to freeze it without the cream and add it after reheating.

What goes well with cauliflower soup?

Croutons, cheese toasts, or fresh herbs complement it perfectly.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, just adjust cooking time slightly.

Why add nutmeg to the soup?

It enhances the natural sweetness and depth of the flavor.

How do I reheat creamy soup properly?

Heat it gently on the stove, stirring frequently to maintain texture.

French Cauliflower Soup Tips

Sauté the onion slowly for better flavor.

Cooking the onion gently until translucent builds a sweet and aromatic base for the soup.

Blend thoroughly for a silky texture.

A smooth consistency is key, so take time to blend until completely creamy.

Do not skip the brown butter.

It adds a deep, nutty flavor that transforms the soup from simple to gourmet.

Season gradually and taste often.

Adding salt and spices in stages helps achieve a perfectly balanced flavor.

Serve immediately while hot.

The soup tastes best fresh, with the contrast of warm soup and crispy toasts.

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