1Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). In a large bowl, toss cauliflower pieces with olive oil, garlic and shallots. Spread out in a roasting pan or baking sheet with sides.
2Roast in the preheated oven until toasted and tender, about 30 minutes.
3When the cauliflower is done, transfer to a soup pot and pour in the chicken broth and water. Season with thyme and the bay leaf and bring to a boil. Cook over medium heat for 30 minutes. Remove and discard the bay leaf.
4Puree the soup in the pot using an immersion blender, or transfer to a blender and puree in batches, then return to the pot. Stir in the cream and season with salt and pepper. Heat through before serving but do not boil.
Footnotes
Tip
Aluminum foil can be used to keep food moist, cook it evenly, and make clean-up easier.