Spiced Cauliflower and Almond Soup
Description:
This hearty and aromatic soup blends meaty cauliflower with a rich combination of spices and harissa, creating a warming, satisfying dish perfect for a light, low-fat dinner. The addition of whole almonds brings a delightful texture, while the North African-inspired flavors add an exotic twist. If you’re seeking a healthy yet flavorful meal, this Spiced Cauliflower and Almond Soup will tick all the boxes. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread, making it a complete meal for any night of the week.
Cuisine: North African
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cauliflower (gobi) | 1 head |
| Whole Almonds (Badam), blanched | 1/2 cup |
| Harissa paste | 3 tablespoons |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon powder (Dalchini) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Vegetable stock | 2 cups |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Black pepper powder | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by washing and rinsing the cauliflower thoroughly. Once cleaned, chop the cauliflower into rough florets. If you haven’t already done so, blanch the almonds by soaking them in hot water for a few minutes, then peeling the skins off. -
Sauté the Cauliflower:
In a large saucepan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped cauliflower florets to the pan and sauté them until they begin to brown slightly and develop a roasted aroma. This will enhance the flavor of the soup. -
Add the Spices and Harissa:
To the pan, add the harissa paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, cinnamon powder, and salt to taste. Stir the mixture for about a minute, allowing the spices to coat the cauliflower evenly and infuse their flavors. -
Incorporate the Almonds:
Toss in the blanched almonds and sauté for another minute. The almonds will add both texture and a subtle nutty flavor to the soup. -
Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the vegetable stock, ensuring the cauliflower and almonds are well-covered. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 20–25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is completely tender. -
Blend the Soup:
Once the cauliflower is cooked through, use a hand blender (immersion blender) to blend the soup until it becomes smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. -
Season the Soup:
After blending, return the soup to the heat, if necessary, and stir in black pepper powder. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or spices if needed. -
Serve:
Ladle the smooth, creamy soup into bowls, and serve immediately while hot. For a complete meal, pair the soup with warm herbed garlic bread.
Serving Suggestions:
For the perfect dinner, serve this flavorful Spiced Cauliflower and Almond Soup alongside a crispy, garlic-infused bread. The crunchy garlic bread complements the creamy texture of the soup, making for an irresistible meal. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this soup is sure to delight everyone at the table.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 200 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
This recipe is a great option for anyone following a vegetarian or low-fat diet while still craving a meal that’s both comforting and packed with flavor. The combination of cauliflower, almonds, and aromatic spices creates a rich, satisfying soup that’s perfect for dinner.
