08 Sep 2025
Cook time 120 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
5 cups vegetable broth
1 cup brown rice
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cauliflower
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
4 fl oz white wine
3 tbsp butter
1 tsp salt
1 dash black pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper (spice)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 tsp fresh thyme
The Citrusy Cauliflower Risotto is a delightful and aromatic dish that combines creamy risotto with the zesty notes of lemon and the comforting flavors of roasted garlic and Parmesan. Perfect as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
Instructions:
1. Prep Work:
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Separate the cauliflower into small florets.
- Grate the Parmesan cheese and set aside.
- If you're using fresh thyme, finely chop it.
2. Roast the Cauliflower:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the cauliflower florets on a baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil. Toss to coat.
- Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through until the florets are golden brown and tender. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Broth:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a gentle simmer. Keep it warm over low heat.
4. Start the Risotto:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Cook the Rice:
- Add the brown rice to the pot, stirring well to coat each grain with oil and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine and stir until it has mostly evaporated.
6. Add the Broth:
- Begin adding the warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition of broth to be absorbed before adding another ladleful.
- Continue this process until the rice becomes al dente and creamy, which should take about 30-40 minutes.
7. Add Flavors and Finish:
- Once the rice is cooked, stir in the roasted cauliflower, grated Parmesan cheese, butter, lemon juice, fresh thyme, red pepper flakes, and the remaining salt and black pepper.
- Mix well until the butter and cheese have melted into the risotto.
8. Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the risotto and adjust seasoning if necessary with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice.
9. Serve:
- Remove the pot from heat and let the risotto sit for a few minutes.
- Serve the citrusy cauliflower risotto warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips:
- Prep all your ingredients before starting to cook to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Roast the garlic ahead of time for an added depth of flavor.
- Use warm vegetable broth when cooking the risotto to help the rice absorb the liquid more quickly.
- Stir the risotto frequently to prevent it from sticking to the pan and to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Adjust the seasoning (salt and pepper) to taste before serving.
- If you prefer a creamier risotto, you can add more butter or a splash of heavy cream at the end.
- Finish with a garnish of fresh thyme and a sprinkling of extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
This Citrusy Cauliflower Risotto is a flavor-packed dish that combines the creaminess of risotto with fresh, zesty citrus notes. Enjoy your deliciously comforting meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. Bon appétit!