06 Mar 2025
Cook time 31 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1 cauliflower
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
2 cups milk (1% fat)
1/2 cup cheddar cheese
1/2 cup bread crumbs
Cauliflower Mornay is a delectable and creamy dish that combines the wholesome flavor of cauliflower with a rich and cheesy Mornay sauce. Perfect as a side dish or a main course for a light meal, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and taste.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Cut the cauliflower into florets and wash them thoroughly.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5 minutes or until just tender. You want them to be slightly undercooked as they will cook further in the oven.
- Drain the cauliflower and set it aside.
3. Make the Mornay Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the flour to the saucepan, stirring constantly to create a smooth paste. This mixture is called a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to stir continuously to avoid lumps.
- Continue to cook and stir the mixture until it thickens and starts to bubble (3-5 minutes).
- Reduce the heat to low and add the grated cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
4. Combine and Bake:
- Arrange the drained cauliflower florets in an even layer in a baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce (Mornay sauce) evenly over the cauliflower.
- Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the top of the sauce-covered cauliflower.
5. Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
6. Serve:
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious Cauliflower Mornay as a main dish or a side!
Tips:
- Ensure the cauliflower florets are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- Continuously whisk the sauce to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.
- For a healthier twist, use whole wheat flour and whole grain bread crumbs.
- To add extra flavor, sprinkle some nutmeg or mustard powder into the Mornay sauce.
Cauliflower Mornay offers a comforting and savory experience with its creamy cheese sauce and tender cauliflower. By following this recipe and incorporating the provided tips, you'll be able to create a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this easy-to-make, flavorful recipe with your loved ones!