Spiced Cauliflower Soup

Combine cumin, coriander and fennel seeds in a small skillet over medium heat. Toast, shaking the pan frequently, until fragrant and beginning to darken, about 3 minutes. Let cool. Grind to a powder with a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.

Heat oil in a large saucepan or soup pot over medium heat. Add leeks and cook, stirring frequently, until beginning to soften, 4 to 6 minutes. Add the ground spices, garlic, ginger, salt and cayenne. Stir to combine. Stir in cauliflower and cook, stirring, for 2 to 3 minutes. Add broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Partially cover, reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook until the cauliflower is tender, about 25 minutes.

Use a slotted spoon to remove about 1 cup of the cauliflower. Let cool slightly. Chop into small florets.

Working in batches, puree the rest of the soup in a blender and return it to the pot or puree in the pot with an immersion blender. (Use caution when pureeing hot liquids.) Gently heat over medium-low heat, stirring in as much milk as needed to adjust the consistency. Add a squeeze of lime juice to taste. Serve garnished with the reserved florets, almonds and chives (or cilantro).