CAULIFLOWER is a vegetable that can be transformed into a variety of dishes. The vegetable’s ability to absorb flavours and provide a satisfying taste makes it a staple in many cuisines. Here are five delicious cauliflower recipes that highlights a unique way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable.
Cauliflower sambal
Cauliflower sambal is a spicy and aromatic dish, featuring cauliflower florets cooked in a rich, tangy sambal sauce made from chillies, garlic and other spices.
Ingredients
1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2-3 red chillies, chopped
1 tablespoon of tamarind paste
1 tablespoon of sugar
1 teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon of shrimp paste (optional)
2 tablespoons of water
Instructions
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and saute until they are soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped red chillies, cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp paste (if using) and cook for an additional minute.
5. Mix in the tamarind paste, sugar, salt and water, stirring well to combine.
6. Add the cauliflower florets and stir to coat them evenly with the sambal sauce.
7. Cover the pan and let the cauliflower cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender but still slightly crisp.
8. Serve hot as a side dish or over steamed rice.
Cauliflower varuval
This dish is a South Indian dry curry that combines cauliflower with aromatic spices. It is known for its deep flavours and crispy texture, making it an excellent accompaniment to rice or flat breads.
Ingredients
1 medium cauliflower, cut into small florets
3 tablespoons of oil
1 large onion, finely sliced
2 tomatoes, chopped
1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1 tablespoon of curry powder
1 teaspoon of chilli powder
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds and allow them to sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the sliced onions and saute until golden brown.
4. Stir in the tomatoes, turmeric powder, curry powder, chilli powder and salt.
5. Cook the paste until the tomatoes break down and the spices are well incorporated.
6. Add the cauliflower florets and stir to coat them with the spice paste.
7. Reduce the heat and cook and stir occasionally until the cauliflower is tender and slightly crispy.
8. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
Boiled cauliflower with garlic butter
This is a simple dish that highlights the natural taste of cauliflower. It is easy to make and perfect for a quick side dish or a light meal.
Ingredients
1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
3 tablespoons of butter
3 cloves of garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender but still firm.
3. Drain the cauliflower and set it aside.
4. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5. Add the minced garlic and saute for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Toss the boiled cauliflower in the garlic butter.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Creamy cauliflower soup
This is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for chilly days. This velvety soup is made with blended cauliflower and seasoned with herbs and spices for a deliciously smooth texture.
Ingredients
1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups of vegetable broth
1 cup of heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic and saute until soft and fragrant.
3. Add the cauliflower florets and vegetable broth to the pot.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the cauliflower is tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend it in batches.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Heat the soup gently until warm but do not boil.
8. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley before serving.
Cauliflower rice
This rice is a healthy alternative to traditional rice. This versatile dish can be used as a base for stir-fries, salads or served as a side with your favourite proteins. This healthy option is great way to reduce intake of carbohydrates.
Ingredients
1 medium cauliflower, grated or processed into rice-sized pieces
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh lemon juice (optional)
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Grate the cauliflower using a box grater or pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice grains.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and garlic and saute until soft and fragrant.
4. Add the cauliflower rice to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring, occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
