Cauliflower cheese

Cauliflower Cheese

A serving of cauliflower cheese

Cauliflower cheese is a traditional British dish that consists of cooked cauliflower florets covered with a rich cheese sauce, typically made from cheddar cheese. It is often served as a side dish but can also be enjoyed as a main course.

History

Cauliflower cheese has its origins in the United Kingdom, where it became popular in the early 19th century. The dish is believed to have been inspired by the French dish "gratin de chou-fleur," which also features cauliflower baked in a cheese sauce. Over time, cauliflower cheese has become a staple in British households and is often served during Sunday roasts and festive occasions.

Preparation

The preparation of cauliflower cheese involves several steps:

1. Cooking the Cauliflower: The cauliflower is first cut into florets and then boiled or steamed until tender.
2. Making the Cheese Sauce: A classic cheese sauce is made by creating a roux with butter and flour, then gradually adding milk to form a béchamel sauce. Grated cheddar cheese is then melted into the sauce, along with seasonings such as mustard and nutmeg.
3. Combining and Baking: The cooked cauliflower is placed in a baking dish, covered with the cheese sauce, and then baked in the oven until the top is golden and bubbly.

Variations

While the traditional recipe uses cheddar cheese, variations of cauliflower cheese can include other types of cheese such as Gruyère, Parmesan, or Stilton. Some recipes add breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch, while others incorporate additional ingredients like bacon, leeks, or broccoli.

Nutritional Information

Cauliflower cheese is a rich and hearty dish. It is a good source of calcium and protein due to the cheese, and it provides dietary fiber and vitamins from the cauliflower. However, it can also be high in fat and calories, depending on the amount of cheese and butter used.

Serving Suggestions

Cauliflower cheese is versatile and can be served in various ways:

• As a side dish alongside roast beef, chicken, or lamb.
• As a vegetarian main course, accompanied by a green salad or crusty bread.
• As part of a buffet or potluck spread.

Related Pages

• Cheese sauce
• Gratin
• British cuisine
• Sunday roast