We don’t have a fireplace. Not to worry, we found out this season that North Carolina is actually much warmer than Missouri in January. Who knew! Still, it’s winter, and we’ve been craving cold weather meals despite the mild temps. This healthy and flavorful soup is perfect to warm a chilly (..or not so chilly) winter night. It works great as a side or as a meal of it’s own. We recommend making this soup with a Cuisinart smart stick. If you don’t own one, working in batches with a blender or food processor should do the trick. Try subbing 4 cups of vegetable stock for the liquid in this recipe for an easy vegetarian option.

Ingredients:

1 head cauliflower, florets removed

2 leeks, chopped (use only white and light green parts)

4 cloves garlic, sliced

2 cups chicken stock

2 cups water

1 chicken bouillon cube

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparation:

Preheat oven to 350°. Place cauliflower florets, leek, and garlic on a sheet pan. Drizzle olive oil over vegetables and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Gently toss vegetables on the pan to coat.

Roast for 30-40 minutes until all vegetables are golden brown. Be sure to move the vegetables around on the pan once or twice during the roasting process to ensure even browning.

While vegetables are roasting, place the stock, water, and bouillon in a small saucepan and heat over medium heat until bouillon dissolves. Turn heat off once dissolved.

When the vegetables are golden brown, remove from oven and carefully place in the stock. Using the smart stick, blend until all large pieces are smooth. Turn heat up to medium. Season again with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve warm with a drizzle of olive oil and freshly cracked black pepper.

Makes 4 large bowls.

The Newlywed Chefs

We’re St. Louis food bloggers who love to cook! Join us on our culinary adventures as we keep a fresh outlook on life, love, and food.