Roasted Cauliflower Purée is a delightful and savory treat that adds a new twist to your side dish recipes. This creamy recipe transforms simple cauliflower into a delicious purée, creating a smooth and flavorful dish perfect for any meal.
To create this savory dish, simply roast cauliflower until it’s tender and golden, then blend it with a touch of cream and seasonings for a velvety texture and rich taste. The result is a flavorful and beautiful side dish that’s sure to be loved by everyone.
Overview: How To Make Roasted Cauliflower Purée?
Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower
Cut cauliflower into small florets. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread out on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.
Step 2: Blend the Cauliflower
Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a blender or food processor. Add a splash of vegetable broth or cream and blend until smooth. You may need to add more liquid to reach your desired consistency.
Step 3: Season and Serve
Taste the purée and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm as a side dish or use it as a base for other recipes. Enjoy your creamy Roasted Cauliflower Purée!
Why I Love This Recipe?
I love this recipe because it takes humble cauliflower and transforms it into a luxurious, velvety purée that’s both comforting and elegant.
The combination of roasting some of the florets for a caramelized flavor and simmering the rest in milk creates a deep, rich taste. The added butter enhances the creaminess, while the chives bring a fresh, bright garnish that complements the dish perfectly.
This recipe is straightforward yet sophisticated, making it a great side dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
The flexibility to adjust the texture by adding reserved milk ensures it meets your personal preference, and the option to include roasted garlic or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds an extra layer of flavor.
It’s a versatile and delicious way to enjoy cauliflower, elevating it from a simple vegetable to a standout dish.
Roasted Cauliflower Purée
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- Medium saucepan
- Strainer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- ½ bunch bunch chives, minced for garnish
- 2 heads cauliflower, core removed, cut into florets
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a baking sheet, toss 1/4 of the cauliflower florets with oil and season with salt.
- Roast in the oven until caramelized, approximately 25 minutes.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining cauliflower florets, milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt over medium heat.
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until the cauliflower is tender, about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Strain the cauliflower from the milk, reserving both the cauliflower and the liquid.
- Place the cauliflower in a blender, adding the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and butter.
- Pour in half of the reserved milk.
- Secure the blender lid and blend until smooth.
- If the purée is too thick, add more of the reserved milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Season to taste.
- Serve the purée in a large bowl, garnished with the caramelized florets and chopped chives.
Notes
- If your purée is too thick, gradually add more of the reserved milk until you achieve your desired texture.
- For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a clove of roasted garlic to the blender.
- For a professional touch, drizzle a bit of high-quality olive oil over the finished purée.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 136 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 13 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Sugar | 9 g |
Tips You May Find Helpful!
- Cut Cauliflower Evenly: Cut the cauliflower into uniform pieces to ensure even roasting and cooking. This helps all the pieces cook at the same rate and develop a consistent flavor.
- Roast at High Heat: Roast the cauliflower at a high temperature (around 425°F or 220°C) to get a nice caramelization and enhance its natural sweetness.
- Season Well: Don’t forget to season the cauliflower with salt, pepper, and other spices before roasting. This helps bring out its flavor and makes the purée more tasty.
- Use a Food Processor: Blend the roasted cauliflower in a food processor or blender for a smooth, creamy texture. If the purée is too thick, add a little vegetable broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning: After blending, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes a bit more salt, pepper, or a dash of nutmeg can elevate the flavor.
- Add Extra Flavor: For added richness, mix in a splash of cream, a bit of garlic, or some grated cheese after blending. These ingredients can enhance the overall taste of your purée.
What To Serve With Roasted Cauliflower Purée?
- Grilled Meat (like chicken)
- Roasted Vegetables
- Pork Chops
- Fresh Herb Salad
Frequently Asked Questions for Roasted Cauliflower Purée!
Is Roasted Cauliflower Beneficial For Your Health?
Cauliflower is known for its cancer risk-reducing properties due to its unique antioxidants, anti-inflammatory benefits, and high fibre content.
What Makes Cauliflower Purée Grainy?
If your cauliflower is cut into uneven pieces, some small and some large, you might end up with a mix of overcooked and undercooked sections. This inconsistency can result in a grainy texture in your purée.
Is Cauliflower A Carbohydrate Or A Protein?
Like all vegetables, cauliflower is primarily a carbohydrate. However, it’s a non-starchy, complex carbohydrate, rich in fibre, and low in natural sugars.
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower Instead Of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower if fresh is not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain the cauliflower thoroughly before roasting it to avoid excess moisture. This will help you achieve a smooth and creamy purée.
How Can I Make The Purée Creamier?
To make the purée creamier, you can add a bit of heavy cream or milk while blending. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try adding a splash of vegetable broth or coconut milk. Adjust the amount to get your desired consistency.
How Do I Store And Reheat The Purée?
Store leftover Roasted Cauliflower Purée in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through. If the purée is too thick after reheating, you can stir in a little bit of broth or milk to adjust the consistency.