Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the cauliflower roasts perfectly, achieving a golden-brown exterior with a slightly crispy edge.

Step 2: Prepare and roast the cauliflower

Toss the cauliflower florets in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, making sure they’re evenly coated. Spread the florets out on a baking sheet, making sure they are in a single layer to ensure even roasting. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. The cauliflower should become tender and golden brown, with some caramelized spots.

Step 3: Sauté the aromatics

While the cauliflower is roasting, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to avoid burning.

Step 4: Add the spices

Now it’s time to add the spices to the pot. Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, turmeric, and red pepper flakes. Allow the spices to cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to release their flavors. This step is crucial as it gives the soup its depth of flavor and warmth.

Step 5: Add roasted cauliflower and broth

Once the cauliflower has finished roasting, add it to the pot with the sautéed onions, garlic, and spices. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Blend the soup

After simmering, remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend only half the soup and leave the rest as is. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can also transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, but be careful when blending hot liquids.

Step 7: Stir in the coconut milk or cream

Once the soup is blended to your desired consistency, stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream. This adds a luxurious creaminess to the soup while balancing the spiciness. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 8: Simmer and serve

Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to let the flavors fully combine. Once it’s ready, ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, and serve with a side of croutons or toasted bread for dipping. For an extra burst of freshness, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the top.