For those looking for a bold and exciting plant-based meal, these Harissa Spiced Cauliflower Steaks deliver both flavor and elegance. With a golden-browned sear, a smoky, slightly sweet harissa glaze, and the perfect balance of creamy mash and lemony chickpeas, this dish is a complete sensory experience. The warm spices add depth to the cauliflower, while the chickpeas and greens bring freshness and texture. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner for two, but it’s easy to scale up for a dinner party or meal prep. Whether you’re new to plant-based cooking or a seasoned pro, you’ll love how simple yet impressive this recipe is. Pair it with a glass of wine and some good company, and you have a restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
Cauliflower Steaks and Mash:
- 1½ lb head of cauliflower
- ¾ cup + 2 teaspoons water, divided
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- ¼ + ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt, divided
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- ¾ teaspoon paprika
- ¾ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¾ teaspoon ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne
- Tahini (for drizzling, optional)
Warm Lemon Chickpeas:
- 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and patted dry
- 1 cup finely chopped lacinato kale
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons currants
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Trim cauliflower leaves, keeping the stem attached. Slice cauliflower into two thick steaks (1½-inch thick).
- Start the mash: Chop remaining cauliflower bits. Steam them in a small saucepan with ¾ cup water over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook uncovered until soft and water evaporates, about 2-3 minutes.
- Blend the mash: Transfer cooked cauliflower and garlic to a food processor. Add lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Blend until creamy, adding water as needed.
- Sear the steaks: Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear cauliflower steaks for about 3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Make the harissa glaze: In a small bowl, mix 2 teaspoons water, ⅛ teaspoon salt, maple syrup, paprika, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and cayenne.
- Bake the steaks: Transfer seared steaks to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush both sides with harissa glaze. Bake for 5-8 minutes, until the cauliflower stem is tender.
- Prepare chickpeas: Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chickpeas and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Stir in kale and lemon juice, cooking until wilted (1-2 minutes). Add currants and warm through. Remove from heat, stir in parsley, and season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the dish: Spread cauliflower mash onto plates, top with lemon chickpeas, and place the harissa-glazed steaks on top. Drizzle with tahini, if using.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes Kcal: 516 kcal | Servings: 2
What Makes This Dish Special?
This dish is more than just a roasted cauliflower recipe; it’s a carefully balanced combination of bold spices, smooth and creamy elements, and nutritious plant-based ingredients. Here’s why it stands out:
1. Harissa for a Flavor Boost
Harissa is a North African spice blend known for its deep, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor. Traditionally, harissa is made with a combination of chili peppers, garlic, coriander, cumin, and caraway seeds. It’s often mixed with olive oil to create a thick, aromatic paste that can be used as a marinade, sauce, or seasoning.
In this recipe, rather than relying on store-bought harissa paste which can vary greatly in heat and intensity we use a homemade blend of spices that mimic harissa’s signature flavors. This allows for better control over the spice level, making it suitable for those who prefer a milder heat. The slight sweetness from maple syrup in the glaze balances out the smokiness and spice, ensuring that each bite is rich but not overpowering.
2. A Complete and Balanced Meal
Many cauliflower steak recipes focus solely on the roasted cauliflower itself, but this one goes further by incorporating two complementary sides: creamy mashed cauliflower and warm, lemony chickpeas.
- Cauliflower Mash: Instead of letting any cauliflower go to waste, the extra bits from cutting the steaks are transformed into a silky, mashed puree. This provides a smooth and comforting base for the dish while reinforcing the overall cauliflower theme. The mash is lightly seasoned with garlic and lemon juice, giving it a bright and fresh taste that balances the richness of the harissa glaze.
- Lemon Chickpeas: Chickpeas add protein and fiber to this meal, making it more filling and satisfying. Sautéed with kale, lemon juice, and a touch of sweetness from currants, the chickpeas bring a slightly nutty and tangy contrast to the dish. They also add a bit of crunch, making each bite interesting and well-rounded.
3. A Stunning Plant-Based Presentation
Food is as much about aesthetics as it is about taste, and this dish does not disappoint in that department. The vibrant red harissa glaze caramelizes beautifully on the cauliflower steaks, giving them a rich, deep color. The bright green kale and parsley add freshness and contrast, while the creamy white cauliflower mash serves as a neutral base that allows the other colors to pop.
For extra visual appeal, a drizzle of tahini can be added on top, creating a creamy and nutty finishing touch that ties all the elements together. Served on a stylish plate, this dish wouldn’t look out of place at a high-end restaurant.
Why Cauliflower Steaks Are a Great Meat Alternative
As more people embrace plant-based eating, there’s been a growing demand for creative ways to prepare vegetables that feel hearty and satisfying. Cauliflower steaks have become a popular alternative to traditional meat-based dishes because they:
- Mimic the experience of a real steak: While they don’t have the exact texture of meat, cauliflower steaks provide a thick and meaty bite that feels substantial and satisfying.
- Absorb flavors exceptionally well: Cauliflower has a mild taste on its own, making it the perfect canvas for bold seasonings like harissa.
- Are packed with nutrients: Cauliflower is a great source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants that support overall health.
This recipe is especially appealing to those following vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets. It proves that plant-based eating doesn’t have to be boring or repetitive by using the right techniques and seasonings, you can create a meal that’s every bit as indulgent as a traditional steak dinner.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
One of the great things about this dish is its versatility. While it’s a complete meal on its own, you can pair it with additional sides or beverages to enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas:
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a medium-bodied red like Grenache would complement the spices in the harissa glaze beautifully.
- Extra Sides: If you’re serving this dish for a special occasion, consider adding a side of roasted sweet potatoes or a fresh Mediterranean salad with cucumbers and tomatoes.
- Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread would be perfect for soaking up any leftover harissa glaze and mashed cauliflower.
Tips for Perfect Cauliflower Steaks
If you’ve ever tried making cauliflower steaks before, you may have run into some common challenges, such as the steaks falling apart or not getting a good sear. Here are some tips to help you nail this recipe:
- Choose a large, sturdy cauliflower: The key to cutting perfect steaks is to select a head of cauliflower with a thick core. Smaller or looser heads tend to fall apart.
- Use a sharp knife: A dull knife can cause the cauliflower to crumble. A sharp chef’s knife will make it easier to cut clean, even steaks.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: When searing the cauliflower, make sure the pieces have enough space in the pan. This allows for even browning and prevents steaming.
- Adjust spice levels to taste: If you prefer a spicier steak, add extra cayenne or red pepper flakes to the harissa glaze. If you want it milder, reduce the paprika and cumin slightly.
Conclusion:
This Harissa Spiced Cauliflower Steak recipe is a perfect example of how plant-based food can be both exciting and deeply satisfying. By combining the bold flavors of harissa with the creamy comfort of cauliflower mash and the bright, tangy taste of lemon chickpeas, this dish offers a well-balanced and nutrient-packed meal that’s as enjoyable to eat as it is to look at.
Whether you’re trying to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, hosting a dinner party, or simply looking for a quick and flavorful meal to enjoy on a busy weeknight, this recipe is sure to impress. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, it proves that healthy, plant-based food doesn’t have to be complicated it just has to be made with love and the right combination of spices.