Looking for a unique and flavorful way to enjoy cauliflower? This cauliflower steak recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and taste, featuring a hearty cauliflower base topped with juicy tomatoes and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a fantastic option for a light yet satisfying meal, whether you’re a veggie lover or just looking to try something new. Here’s how you can make this delightful dish:

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

700 g Cauliflower: Choose a fresh, firm cauliflower head. It will be sliced into thick “steaks” for grilling or roasting.
2 Eggs: Beaten, used to help the coating stick to the cauliflower.

Salt: To taste, enhances the flavors of the cauliflower and toppings.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground, adds a bit of heat and flavor.
1 tbsp Sour Cream: Adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor to the cauliflower.

Dry Garlic: Adds a robust garlic flavor without the moisture of fresh garlic.
50 g Flour: Used to coat the cauliflower steaks, giving them a crispy texture.
2 Tomatoes: Sliced, will be layered on top of the cauliflower steaks for added juiciness and flavor.

200 g Mozzarella: Shredded or sliced, melted cheese adds a rich, gooey topping.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cauliflower:

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) or prepare a grill for medium-high heat.

Remove the leaves and stem from the cauliflower head. Cut the cauliflower into thick slices, about 1-1.5 cm (0.5 inches) thick. These will be your “steaks.”

2. Prepare the Coating:

In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, and dry garlic. Mix well.

In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the sour cream.

3. Coat the Cauliflower Steaks:

Dip each cauliflower steak into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s well coated.

Then, dredge the steak in the flour mixture, coating both sides thoroughly.

4. Cook the Cauliflower Steaks:

For Baking: Place the coated cauliflower steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle or spray lightly with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

For Grilling: Place the cauliflower steaks on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.

5. Add Tomatoes and Cheese:

Once the cauliflower steaks are cooked, top each steak with slices of tomato and a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese.

Return the cauliflower steaks to the oven or grill for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve:

Remove the cauliflower steaks from the oven or grill. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.

Tips for the Perfect Cauliflower Steak:

Choose Fresh Cauliflower: Look for a firm, white cauliflower head with no brown spots or blemishes.
Thickness Matters: Cut the cauliflower into thick slices to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.

Season Well: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper; they are crucial for enhancing the flavor.
Crispy Texture: If baking, ensure the cauliflower is well coated and spaced out on the baking sheet for a crispier result.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, for varied flavors.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):

Calories: 200
Protein: 12g
Fat: 12g

Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower steaks in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking or grilling. Simply reheat them in the oven or grill before adding the tomatoes and cheese.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a different taste.

Q: How do I ensure the cauliflower steaks are cooked evenly?
A: Ensure that the cauliflower steaks are of uniform thickness and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet or grill. This allows for even cooking and a crispy exterior.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: To make this recipe vegan, use a plant-based cheese alternative and replace the eggs with a mixture of flaxseed meal and water or a commercial egg replacer.

Conclusion:

This cauliflower steak with tomatoes and cheese recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious and satisfying meal. The combination of crispy cauliflower, juicy tomatoes, and melted mozzarella creates a delicious dish that’s both comforting and healthy. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a hearty side, this recipe is sure to impress and become a favorite in your meal rotation. Give it a try, and enjoy the savory flavors and satisfying textures!

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