Ham Cauliflower Soup
Try this ham cauliflower soup recipe.
Try this ham cauliflower soup recipe.
- salt & pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup white cheddar shredded
- 1/2 yellow onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic sliced
- 1 leftover ham bone with 2-3 cups ham still attached
- 4 cups broth (i used bone broth in a slow cooker)
- 1 medium head of cauliflower (or 1/2 a very large head) cut into small florets
- 1 1/4 cups sour cream (2 tablespoons per serving)
- 1/2 cup green onions sliced (optional)
- Carbohydrate 10.8210000050061 g
- Cholesterol 281.680000207732 mg
- Fat 91.6819500604648 g
- Fiber 1.26000001457985 g
- Protein 31.4102500033018 g
- Saturated Fat 52.6672000355261 g
- Serving Size 1 1 (310g)
- Sodium 906.384500059397 mg
- Sugar 9.5609999904262 g
- Trans Fat 4.50518000301669 g
- Calories 981 calories
Step-by-step
- Set Instant Pot to sauté and add olive oil.
- When olive oil is heated, add onions and garlic.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir and cook for about 2 minutes or until garlic is fragrant.
- Add in ham bone and broth.
- Turn off heat.
- Place on lid and set valve to sealing.
- Cook on high pressure for 50 minutes.
- Quick release pressure and allow button to drop on lid.
- Remove ham bone and cut meat off the bone.
- Roughly chop the ham and return it to the pot.
- Add cauliflower florets and heavy cream.
- Season soup with salt and pepper; stir.
- Place on lid, set valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 5 more minutes.
- Quick release pressure and allow button to drop on lid.
- Stir in shredded cheddar and ladle soup into bowls.
- Top each bowl with 2 Tablespoons sour cream and a few green onions.
A Creamy Comfort: My Ham Cauliflower Soup Adventure
As a busy mom, finding time to cook a hearty and nutritious meal can sometimes feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are a whirlwind of homework, practices, and bedtime routines. But even amidst the chaos, I crave comfort food – something warm, satisfying, and preferably quick to prepare. That's where this Ham Cauliflower Soup recipe comes in. It's become a family favorite, a testament to the fact that delicious doesn't have to mean difficult.
The inspiration struck me during one of those particularly hectic weeks. I had a leftover ham bone, a beautiful head of cauliflower begging to be used, and a desperate need for a warm hug in a bowl. Instead of resorting to takeout (again!), I decided to experiment. The result? This incredibly creamy, flavorful soup that's both surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. The rich ham broth, combined with the tender cauliflower and a touch of heavy cream, creates a symphony of flavors that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And the best part? The prep time is minimal, making it the perfect weeknight meal solution.
The key to this soup's success lies in the ham bone. Don't discard it! That's where all the flavor magic happens. It imparts a depth and richness to the broth that you simply can't achieve with just ham pieces. I often use bone broth from a slow cooker for added depth, which complements the ham beautifully. But any broth will do! The cauliflower, on the other hand, adds a nice textural element and a subtle sweetness that balances the richness of the ham. I've experimented with different cauliflower cuts – some larger florets, some smaller – and honestly, it all works beautifully.
The simple seasonings, a pinch of salt and pepper, allow the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine. But feel free to customize it to your liking. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of nutmeg, or even a touch of Dijon mustard can add a delightful twist. And of course, the topping is crucial! A dollop of sour cream provides a delightful tang, while the green onions add a fresh, vibrant note. Imagine: you come home after a long day, the aroma of this soup filling your house, promising warmth and relaxation. You ladle a generous portion into a bowl, the creamy texture already tempting you. The first spoonful is pure bliss – a comforting hug in a bowl. This soup isn't just a meal; it's an experience.
This recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions; it's a story of resourcefulness, a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. It's a reflection of my commitment to nourishing my family with delicious and wholesome food, even amidst the whirlwind of daily life. This Ham Cauliflower Soup is a celebration of those busy weeknights, a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, there's always time for a warm, comforting, and truly delicious meal.
So, the next time you find yourself with a leftover ham bone and a craving for something comforting, give this recipe a try. I guarantee it will become a staple in your kitchen, a go-to meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your busy schedule. The simplicity, the flavor, the heartwarming experience – it's all there in this one perfect bowl of soup. And who knows, maybe it will even inspire you to create your own culinary adventures, transforming simple ingredients into extraordinary meals that nourish not just your body, but your soul.
