I made this Iowa Girl Eats Cauliflower Chowder a few weeks back and it is perfect for cold weather like we are currently having right now in Dallas. This chowder was delicious right out of the pan, but I can’t say the same for the leftovers unfortunately.
This was my first time to try an Iowa Girl Eats recipe and it turned out so good! I had to borrow my mom’s food processor in order to make this recipe but it was definitely worth it!
Iowa Girl Eats’ Cauliflower Chowder
8 slices center-cut bacon, chopped (use half for a garnish)
1/2 small onion, chopped (or 1 teaspoon onion powder)
1 celery stalk, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
salt & pepper
4 cups shredded or grated cauliflower (1/2 large head)
2 Tablespoons water
2 Tablespoons flour
2 cups chicken broth, divided
2 cups 2% milk (I used skim milk)
3-4 dashes hot sauce (or more or less)
2-1/2 cups (12oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (use half for a garnish)
2 green onions, chopped (optional garnish)
I started by cooking all the bacon. While the bacon was cooking I shredded the cauliflower until I had 4 cups. I chopped up the onion and the celery but used the food processor to mence the garlic. When they were cooked I set them on a paper towel to cool off and measured out 1 tablespoon of the bacon drippings.
I switched pots to make the cauliflower chowder and poured the tablespoon of drippings into it and then added the chopped vegetables. Then I pitched the remaining drippings. Let the veggies cook for 4-5 minutes until tender.
Add the cauliflower and water to the pot then cover. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes but stir occasionally. While this is cooking, whisk together the flour and a 1/4 cup of chicken broth then set aside. Once the cauliflower is tener add the broth and milk and bring the pot to a boil.
Once boiling, slowing whisk in the broth and flour mixture. Then turn down the heat and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes or until the chowder has thickened. Then turn off the heat and mix in the shredded cheddar until smooth, then crumble half of the bacon and add it to the pot. Add salt, pepper and hot sauce to your taste and serve. Garnish with remaining cheddar, bacon and the green onion.
I can’t wait to make this Iowa Girl Eats’ Cauliflower Chowder again. Thanks for sharing the great recipe Iowa Girl! I can’t wait to try out more of her recipes.
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