Ingredients:

1 large cauliflower, chopped into florets

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 carrots, peeled and chopped

1 celery stalk, chopped

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

4 cups vegetable broth

1 cup coconut milk

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish

For the Spice Blend:

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.

2. Add Cauliflower and Spices:

Add cauliflower florets to the pot and sprinkle with ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the vegetables with the spices.

3. Create Spice Blend:

In a small bowl, mix together ground turmeric, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and ground cardamom to create the spice blend. Add the spice blend to the pot and stir well.

4. Simmer:

Pour in vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.

5. Blend:

Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.

6. Add Coconut Milk:

Stir in coconut milk, adjusting the consistency to your liking. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

7. Adjust Seasoning:

Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, black pepper, or cayenne pepper if desired.

8. Serve:

Ladle the Spicy Cauliflower Soup into bowls.

Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Optional Tips:

For added richness, finish the soup with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dollop of yogurt.

Toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts can add a delightful crunch as a garnish.

A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving can brighten the flavors.