Cheesy Buffalo Cauliflower Soup With Bacon

Ingredients:

1 small cauliflower head cut into 1 inch pieces

5 pieces of bacon sliced into small strips

1-2 chopped leeks

1 tbsp fresh thyme

2 tbsp chopped chives

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar

3-4 ounces of cream cheese

1-2 tbsp blue cheese

≈7 tbsp Franks Hot Sauce

4 tbsp butter

≈4 tbsp flour

2 tbsp garlic powder

5 – 6 cups of chicken broth

salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1:

In a large soup pot crisp up the bacon on medium high heat.

Once bacon is browned and fully cooked, remove from pot and set aside on some napkins.

Step 2:

Add leeks and cauliflower to the bacon fat and cook, stirring frequently for about 5 minutes.

Add the flour and continue to cook stirring frequently for about another 8-10 minutes.

Scrape the browned bits of flour off the pot while stirring.

Add the garlic powder and fresh thyme then cook for a minute and add the chicken broth.

Step 3:

Bring up to a low boil then add the cheeses, bacon and chives leaving some for garnish at the end.

Also add about 2-3 tablespoons of Franks hot sauce and salt to taste.

Step 4:

In a small pot add the butter and the rest of the Franks hot sauce and warm.

Step 5:

Garnish and drizzle with the butter hot sauce and enjoy!

Notes:

Flavorful Base: Crisping up the bacon in the soup pot not only adds a delicious smoky flavor but also creates a flavorful base for the soup with the rendered bacon fat.

Vegetable Base: The combination of cauliflower and leeks provides a hearty and nutritious base for the soup. Cauliflower adds a creamy texture when blended, while leeks contribute a subtle onion flavor.

Thickening Agent: The addition of flour helps thicken the soup and create a creamy consistency. Cooking the flour in the bacon fat ensures a rich and flavorful roux, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.

Seasonings: Garlic powder and fresh thyme add depth of flavor to the soup, enhancing its savory profile. Adjusting the amount of Franks Hot Sauce allows for customization of the soup’s spiciness level to suit individual preferences.

Creamy and Cheesy: Incorporating shredded sharp cheddar and cream cheese adds creaminess and richness to the soup, while blue cheese provides a tangy and distinctive flavor. The combination of cheeses creates a velvety texture and indulgent taste.

Additional Garnishes: Garnishing the soup with crispy bacon strips and chopped chives adds texture, color, and freshness to the dish. Drizzling the butter and hot sauce mixture on top adds another layer of flavor and enhances the buffalo-inspired taste.

Versatile Dish: This soup can be served as a comforting meal on its own or as a starter for larger gatherings. It can be easily customized by adjusting the amount of hot sauce or adding extra toppings such as croutons or additional cheese.

Make-Ahead Option: The soup can be prepared in advance and reheated when ready to serve. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutritious and Filling: Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals, making this soup a wholesome option. The addition of protein from the bacon adds satiety, making it a satisfying meal choice.

Creative Twist: This recipe offers a creative twist on traditional cauliflower soup by incorporating the flavors of buffalo sauce and cheese. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that is sure to please both cauliflower and buffalo sauce enthusiasts alike.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use turkey bacon or another type of bacon as a substitute?

Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon or any other type of bacon according to your preference or dietary restrictions.

Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How can I adjust the spiciness level of the soup to my preference?

You can adjust the spiciness level by varying the amount of Frank’s Hot Sauce added to the soup.

Start with less and gradually add more until you reach your desired level of spiciness.

Can I omit the blue cheese if I’m not a fan of it?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can simply omit it from the recipe without compromising the overall flavor of the soup.

Is there a vegetarian or vegan alternative for the bacon in this recipe?

Yes, you can use vegetarian or vegan bacon alternatives made from plant-based ingredients as a substitute for traditional bacon in this recipe.

Can I use low-fat or reduced-fat cheese options to make the soup healthier?

Yes, you can use low-fat or reduced-fat cheese options to make the soup healthier, although it may affect the overall texture and flavor slightly.

How long does it typically take to cook the cauliflower until it’s tender?

It typically takes about 10-15 minutes for the cauliflower to become tender when cooked in the soup.

Can I use pre-made chicken broth or should I make it from scratch?

You can use either pre-made chicken broth or homemade chicken broth based on your preference and availability.

Both will work well in the recipe.

Can I use gluten-free flour as a substitute for regular flour in this recipe?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour as a substitute for regular flour to make the soup gluten-free. Just ensure to adjust the quantity as needed for thickening the soup.

Are there any alternative herbs I can use instead of fresh thyme and chives?

Yes, you can use alternative herbs such as parsley, rosemary, or oregano as substitutes for fresh thyme and chives, depending on your taste preferences.

Can I make this soup ahead of time and reheat it later? If so, what’s the best way to store it?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and reheat it later.

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through before serving.