Vichyssoise with Cauliflower and Buttermilk

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Servings:
6
Yield:
7 cups

Cauliflower enhances our version of this classic soup, traditionally made with just potatoes and leeks.

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter

  • 5 leeks, white and pale-green parts only, thinly sliced and rinsed well (about 3 cups)

  • 1 white potato (about 4 ounces), peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces

  • Freshly ground white pepper

  • Large pinch nutmeg

  • 1 small head cauliflower, cut into florets (about 4 cups)

  • Coarse salt

  • 3 ½ cups homemade or low-sodium store-bought chicken stock

  • 1 cup low-fat buttermilk

Directions

  1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add leeks, and cook, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes. Add potato, 1/8 teaspoon pepper, and the nutmeg, and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Stir in cauliflower, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 3 cups stock. Simmer, partially covered, until cauliflower has softened, 12 to 15 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove 2 florets, and transfer to a cutting board; thinly slice lengthwise. Set aside for garnish.

  2. Working in batches, puree vegetable mixture in a blender, filling no more than halfway each time. Return to pan. Stir in buttermilk and remaining 1/2 cup stock. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt, and season with pepper. Serve hot or cold, garnished with cauliflower slices.

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