Cauliflower Soup: Mmm Mmm Satisfying

Super-tasty and soul-satisfying cauliflower soup. Yep, I just love the rich and creamy consistency. You would almost think that cream was in the recipe!

Got pent-up frustration? Take it out on the cauliflower as you chop away!

However, if you are using your dehydrated cauliflower, you'll remain calm, cool, and collected!

Want to Use Fresh Ingredients?

If you want to use fresh ingredients that you may have on hand, do this:

Exchange the dry ingredients in the recipe, above, for these fresh ingredients listed below!

• 3/4 to a whole head of cauliflower - remove outer leaves and break down into florets - wash if needed
• 1/4 large onion, peeled and diced
• 1 celery stalk, sliced
• 2 slices fresh elephant garlic, or 1 small clove of "regular sized" garlic

Why ARE There Different Colored Cauliflowers?

The color of the vegetable is determined by the presence of certain pigments in the plant. For example, anthocyanins are responsible for the blue and purple coloration in purple cauliflower. These pigments are also found in other blue and purple fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries and eggplant.

Carotenoids are responsible for the orange coloration in cauliflower. These pigments are also found in other orange fruits and vegetables, such as carrots and sweet potatoes.

The white color of cauliflower is due to the absence of these pigments!

How to Grow Cauliflower

Here are some tips on how best to grow cauliflower:

• Choose early-maturing cauliflower varieties best suited for your climate. Popular varieties include Snow Crown, Candid Charm, Graffiti, and White Sails.
• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost. Place the seedlings outdoors a week or two after the last frost when they have 3-4 true leaves.
• Cauliflower needs full sun (at least 6 hours per day) and nutrient-rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 - 7.5. Amend soil with compost or fertilizer before planting.
• Space plants 18-24 inches apart in rows 2-3 feet apart. Plant seedlings at the same depth that they grew in - inside their starter pots.
• Water cauliflower regularly, about 1-2 inches per week. Drought stress will cause heads to be small and taste bitter.
• When heads start forming, tie their outer leaves over the head to protect it from sunlight which can cause discoloration.
• Side dress with nitrogen-rich fertilizer when heads start developing to promote growth.
• Harvest cauliflower when the heads reach full size and are compact. Cut the head along with a few attached leaves.
• Cauliflower is cold hardy but matures best with temperatures between 60-70°F. Time plantings for maturity during cooler fall weather.

With proper sowing, spacing, sunlight, and irrigation, home gardeners can grow cauliflower.

The best cauliflower-growing regions in the US:

• California
• Arizona
• Oregon
• New York
• Washington
• Texas

Cauliflower thrives in cooler temperatures, ranging between 60-70°F, and requires consistent moisture. Early fall planting for winter maturation is ideal in most parts of the country.

Is Millet Good For You?

Millet is a very healthy gluten-free grain with several benefits:

• Highly nutritious - Millet is high in protein, fiber, antioxidants, magnesium, phosphorous, and other minerals. It contains no gluten.
• Digestible - Since millet is alkalizing, non-acidic, and easy to digest, it is considered one of the least allergenic and most digestible grains out there. This makes it gentle on the stomach.
• Prebiotic benefits - The non-digestible carbohydrates in millet serve as food for good gut bacteria which promotes overall gut health.
• Gluten-free - For those with Celiac disease or gluten intolerance, millet provides a nutritious gluten-free alternative to wheat and other grains.

Is Quinoa Good For You?

Quinoa is very good for you due to its exceptional nutritional profile:

• Complete protein - Quinoa contains all NINE essential amino acids making it a complete protein. This is rare among grains. The protein content is also relatively high at around 4 grams per 1/4 cup uncooked.
• High fiber - Quinoa contains 5 grams of fiber per 1/4 cup. The fiber helps regulate digestion and promotes feelings of fullness.
• Complex carbohydrates - Quinoa is mainly composed of slow-digesting complex carbs rather than fast-digesting carbs. This gives you steady energy.
• High iron - Quinoa contains much more iron than other grains. This helps transport oxygen around the body and helps prevent anemia.
• Rich antioxidants - Quinoa is very high in antioxidants including quercetin, kaempferol, and ferulic acid which are said to help eliminate free radicals and reduce inflammation.
• Low glycemic index - The glycemic index of quinoa is around 53, meaning it won't cause big spikes in blood sugar levels. This is important if you're a diabetic.
• Gluten-free - Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, providing a grain option if you have Celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
• Versatile - Quinoa has a mild, nutty flavor that works well in both sweet and savory dishes - from breakfast to dinner.

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