Cream of Cauliflower Soup with Saffron

This quick and easy soup has a short ingredients list and can be made a day ahead of time for an instant meal when needed. Saffron has a warming flavor and lends beautiful color to the soup. The cauliflower base is high in vitamin C, folate, fiber, anti-inflammatory antioxidants and many other important nutrients. This soup is a tasty way to start the year off right!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 2 cups low-salt chicken broth
• 1/8 teaspoon coarsely crumbled saffron threads
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups chopped onions
• 1 ½ pounds cauliflower, cut into ½- to ¾-inch pieces
• ¾ cup half and half
• Thinly sliced fresh chives

Preparation:

1. Combine 2 cups water and 2 cups low-salt chicken broth in medium saucepan.
2. Bring mixture to a simmer.
3. Remove from heat and add saffron threads.
4. Cover and steep 20 minutes.
5. Melt butter in heavy medium pot over medium-low heat.
6. Add chopped onions and sauté until very tender but not brown, about 10 minutes.
7. Add cauliflower pieces; stir to coat.
8. Add saffron broth.
9. Bring to a simmer over high heat.
10. Reduce heat, cover and simmer until cauliflower pieces are tender, about 20 minutes.
11. Working in batches, puree cauliflower mixture in a food processor until smooth.
12. Transfer puree to a large saucepan.
13. Stir in half and half; bring to a simmer.
14. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
15. Ladle soup into bowls.
16. Garnish with sliced fresh chives and serve.

Source: Bon Appétit