Cauliflower Cheese is a classic British comfort dish, usually served as a side but hearty enough to be a main. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe:
🧀 Cauliflower Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 large cauliflower (cut into florets)
- 40g (3 tbsp) butter
- 40g (1/3 cup) plain flour
- 500ml (2 cups) whole milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, but adds depth)
- 150g (1 ½ cups) mature cheddar cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Extra grated cheese or breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F / Gas Mark 6.
- Blanch the cauliflower:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil.
- Add cauliflower florets and cook for 5 minutes until just tender.
- Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook until the sauce thickens (5–7 minutes).
- Add mustard, a pinch of nutmeg (if using), and most of the cheese.
- Stir until melted and smooth. Season to taste.
- Assemble:
- Place cauliflower in an ovenproof dish.
- Pour over the cheese sauce, making sure all the florets are covered.
- Sprinkle with remaining cheese or breadcrumbs for a golden topping.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
📝 Tips:
- Add-ins: Bacon bits, leeks, or chopped cooked broccoli for variation.
- Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate; bake when ready to serve.