Saturday, February 27, 2010

Cauliflower Soup with Pecorino Romano and Truffle Oil

I used orange cauliflower, which added a little color. It was plenty cheesy already, so I didn't think it needed shavings on top, but maybe my cube was too big. It's cool how the cube of cheese flavors the cooking cauliflower and only gets shredded at the end. For the first time I really appreciated the flavor of the truffle oil in something I made.

From Bon Appetit. Serves 6.

2 oz (2 1/2 strips) applewood-smoked bacon, chopped
1 cup chopped onion
3/4 cup chopped celery
2 cloves garlic, chopped
6 cups 1-inch pieces cauliflower (cut from 1 large head)
3 1/2 cups (or more) low salt chicken broth
1 3/4-inch cube of pecorino romano cheese, plus more shavings for serving
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
white or black truffle oil (for drizzling)

Saute bacon in a heavy large saucepan over medium heat until golden brown and some fat renders. Add onion, celery, and garlic. Cover and cook until veggies are soft, stirring occasionally, about 7 minutes. Add cauliflower, 3 1/2 cups broth, and cheese cube. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until cauliflower is tender, about 20 minutes.

Puree soup in batches in blender. Return to the same pan. Add cream and bring soup to simmer. Thing with more broth by 1/4 cupfuls f desired. Season with salt and pepper.

Can be made 1 day ahead. Cool slightly, cover, and chill. Rewarm before adding cheese shavings and drizzling with truffle oil.

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