Whole roasted cauliflower makes for a stunning and flavorful dish. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe to prepare it:
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Remove the leaves from the cauliflower head and trim the stem so it sits flat. Rinse the cauliflower head and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Make the Seasoning Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric (if using), salt, and pepper to create a spice paste.
- Coat the Cauliflower:
- Place the cauliflower head in a baking dish or on a lined baking sheet. Brush or rub the spice paste all over the cauliflower, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Roast the Cauliflower:
- Place the seasoned cauliflower in the preheated oven. Roast for about 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of the cauliflower head, or until it’s tender when pierced with a knife.
- Check and Baste:
- Check the cauliflower occasionally while it roasts. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil. You can also baste it with any excess spice mixture or olive oil to keep it moist.
- Finish and Garnish:
- Once the cauliflower is cooked and has a nice golden color, remove it from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
- Serve:
- To serve, you can cut the whole roasted cauliflower into wedges or simply place it on a platter as is. It’s a striking centerpiece for any table and can be served as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.
This whole roasted cauliflower is flavorful, tender, and makes a beautiful presentation. Feel free to adjust the spices and seasoning according to your taste preferences. Enjoy the wonderful flavors and textures of this impressive dish!