Pin it
This cauliflower chicken soup has become my go-to anti-inflammatory meal whenever I need a quick reset or a comforting dinner that doesn't compromise on health benefits. The combination of ginger, turmeric, and fresh vegetables creates a healing bowl that's still hearty enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites.
I first created this soup during a particularly stressful month when my joints were feeling achy and I needed something nourishing yet quick. Now it's in my regular rotation because it's one of those rare recipes that feels like comfort food while actually supporting your health.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: cooked and diced provides lean protein that keeps you satisfied longer
- Cauliflower florets: offer a creamy texture without dairy plus cruciferous vegetables have powerful anti-inflammatory properties
- Fresh ginger: the star anti-inflammatory ingredient that gives this soup its healing properties
- Turmeric: contains curcumin which has been studied extensively for reducing inflammation
- Carrots: add natural sweetness and vitamin A
- Onion and garlic: build flavor while offering immune-supporting benefits
- Dried mint: brightens the flavor profile and aids digestion
- Olive oil: provides healthy fats and helps your body absorb the turmeric
- Black pepper: enhances turmeric absorption by up to 2000%
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté The Aromatics:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pot and add onion garlic turmeric and black pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onions begin to soften. This initial cooking releases the fat-soluble compounds in the turmeric and allows the flavors to bloom.
- Build The Soup Base:
- Add the cauliflower florets and 2 cups of chicken broth to the pot. Cover and cook at medium-high heat for about 7 minutes until the cauliflower begins to soften. The cauliflower will eventually create the creamy texture of the soup.
- Add Secondary Ingredients:
- Incorporate the grated ginger dried mint and chopped carrot. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the carrots have softened. The layering of ingredients at different times ensures each maintains its optimal flavor and texture.
- Create The Perfect Texture:
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. This key step thickens the soup without making it completely smooth giving you a perfect balance of creamy broth with chunks of vegetables for texture.
- Finish With Protein:
- Add the cooked chicken an additional cup of broth salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 5-6 more minutes allowing all the flavors to meld together. Finish with a tablespoon of olive oil drizzled on top right before serving for richness and to help absorb the fat-soluble nutrients.
Pin it
I always make a double batch of this soup because it actually tastes even better the next day. The ginger and turmeric flavors deepen overnight creating an even more therapeutic bowl for lunch the following day. My husband who typically avoids "healthy soups" requests this one regularly.
Make It Your Own
This recipe is incredibly flexible and forgiving. If you prefer a vegetarian version replace the chicken with a can of drained white beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You'll still get protein but from plant sources instead. For extra inflammation-fighting power add a handful of spinach or kale in the last two minutes of cooking.
Storage Secrets
This soup will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days making it perfect for meal prep. It actually tastes better the second day as the flavors have more time to develop. If the soup thickens too much in storage simply add a splash of broth when reheating. While you can freeze this soup I find the texture of the cauliflower changes slightly when thawed but the flavor remains delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup with a slice of grain-free bread for dipping or add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving to brighten all the flavors. For a complete meal consider adding a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. When I'm fighting a cold I sometimes add an extra teaspoon of ginger and a pinch of cayenne pepper for additional warming properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken for this soup?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works great and saves time. Simply shred it and add it during the final cooking step.
- → Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- → How can I adjust the soup's thickness?
To thicken the soup, blend more of the vegetables or use less broth. For a thinner consistency, add additional broth.
- → What can I use instead of cauliflower?
If you prefer, broccoli can be used as a substitute for cauliflower to achieve a similar texture and nutrient profile.
- → Are there other spices I can add?
You can add spices like cumin, paprika, or coriander for an extra flavor boost based on your preference.