Thai Coconut Curried Cauliflower Soup is one of those soul-warming meals I crave when I want something creamy, flavorful, and nourishing. With roasted cauliflower, aromatic curry spices, and rich coconut milk, this soup delivers bold Thai-inspired flavor in every spoonful. It’s a simple, one-pot meal that’s both comforting and bright — and totally plant-based.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to make, yet tastes like something I’d order at a restaurant. The creamy texture, paired with warm curry, garlic, ginger, and the subtle sweetness of coconut milk, makes this soup feel indulgent while still being wholesome. Plus, it’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for meal prep or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cauliflower, chopped into florets
- Coconut oil or olive oil
- Yellow onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh ginger, grated
- Thai red curry paste
- Curry powder
- Full-fat coconut milk
- Vegetable broth
- Lime juice
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: chili flakes, roasted cashews, coconut cream drizzle
Directions
- Roast the cauliflower (optional but adds depth):
I toss cauliflower florets in a little oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until lightly golden. - Sauté the aromatics:
In a large pot, I heat coconut oil and cook the onion until translucent. I add garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant. - Add spices and curry paste:
I stir in the red curry paste and curry powder and cook for a minute to bloom the flavors. - Build the soup:
I add the roasted cauliflower (reserving a few florets for garnish if I want), coconut milk, and vegetable broth. I bring everything to a simmer and let it cook for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. - Blend until smooth:
I use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, I transfer it in batches to a blender. - Finish and serve:
I stir in lime juice, taste, and adjust salt and pepper. I ladle it into bowls and garnish with cilantro, reserved cauliflower, or chili flakes.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 and takes about 40 minutes total — 10 minutes to prep, 25 minutes to roast, and 5 minutes to finish.
Variations
Sometimes I add carrots or sweet potatoes along with the cauliflower for a deeper sweetness. If I want extra protein, I stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas after blending. I’ve also added a touch of peanut butter for richness or a splash of soy sauce for extra umami.
Storage/Reheating
I store the soup in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It thickens slightly as it sits, so I add a splash of broth or water when reheating. It also freezes beautifully — I let it cool completely, then freeze in individual portions for easy reheating on busy days.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes — I roast it straight from frozen or toss it directly into the soup. Roasting gives better flavor, but it still works without.
Is this soup spicy?
It’s mildly spicy depending on the curry paste. I adjust the heat by using more or less curry paste or adding chili flakes at the end.
Can I make it without curry paste?
If I don’t have Thai curry paste, I increase the curry powder and add turmeric, cumin, or a pinch of chili for flavor.
Do I need to roast the cauliflower?
Roasting brings out a nutty, caramelized flavor, but if I’m short on time, I skip it and just simmer the cauliflower in the soup until soft before blending.
What can I serve with this?
I love it with warm naan, jasmine rice, or a crunchy Thai-inspired slaw on the side. It also pairs well with a light cucumber salad.
Conclusion
Thai Coconut Curried Cauliflower Soup is creamy, comforting, and full of bold, bright flavor. It’s one of those recipes that proves plant-based meals can be both satisfying and crave-worthy. Whether I’m making it for a cozy lunch or prepping for the week, this soup always brings warmth, nourishment, and a little taste of Thailand into my kitchen.
Print
Thai Coconut Curried Cauliflower Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Thai Coconut Curried Cauliflower Soup is a creamy, plant-based soup made with roasted cauliflower, Thai red curry paste, and coconut milk. It’s packed with bold, warming flavors and perfect for cozy meals or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower, chopped into florets
- 2 tbsp coconut oil or olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp Thai red curry paste
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: chili flakes, roasted cashews, coconut cream drizzle
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tbsp oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20–25 minutes until lightly golden (optional but recommended).
- In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp coconut oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in Thai red curry paste and curry powder. Cook for 1 minute to release aromas.
- Add roasted cauliflower (reserve some for garnish if desired), coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches in a countertop blender.
- Stir in lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, reserved cauliflower, chili flakes, or cashews as desired.
Notes
- Roasting the cauliflower adds rich, nutty flavor.
- For a protein boost, add cooked chickpeas or lentils after blending.
- Adjust spice level by modifying the amount of curry paste or chili flakes.
- This soup thickens when chilled—add broth when reheating for desired consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
