A Very Tasty Slow Cooker Whole Roasted Cauliflower With Butter Sauce
Looking to transform a humble vegetable into a star dish? This slow-cooked whole roasted cauliflower with butter sauce is the answer. Perfectly tender and infused with aromatic herbs, this is a dish that promises to elevate your dining experience to a new level of comfort and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for cauliflower lovers and skeptics alike. The butter sauce adds a rich, savory depth that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the cauliflower. Not only is it incredibly flavorful, but it’s also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for both busy weeknights and special occasions.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Knife
- Pot
- Cast iron skillet or oven-proof pan
- Oven
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 head of cauliflower
- Fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable or chicken stock, more or less, depending on the size of the cauliflower
- 1/3 cup (70g) melted butter
- Fresh cracked pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200°C). Trim the bottom of the cauliflower, removing the leaves and stem without breaking it apart. Rinse and pat dry.
2. Place the cauliflower in a pot, cover with stock, and add fresh thyme and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 12 minutes.
3. Drain and transfer the cauliflower to a cast iron skillet or oven-proof pan. Ladle some of the cooking stock over it, then drizzle with melted butter. Sprinkle with fresh thyme and cracked pepper.
4. Roast in the oven for 10-15 minutes, until golden. Baste with the cooking juices occasionally. Check doneness with a knife; it should slide in easily. For extra color, broil for an additional 2 minutes, keeping a close watch to avoid burning.
5. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with more fresh thyme, slice, and serve with extra buttery juices drizzled on top.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cauliflower is fully submerged in stock for even cooking.
- Basting with the cooking juices helps to enhance the flavor and keep the cauliflower moist.
- Keep an eye on the cauliflower while broiling to prevent it from burning.
Additional Tips and Variations
Consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before roasting for a cheesy crust. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter sauce.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish is rich in fiber and vitamins, with a moderate amount of healthy fats from the butter. While butter is used, the quantity is small enough to keep the dish relatively light while still delivering a rich flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower?
A: Fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture and flavor.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can boil the cauliflower in advance and roast it just before serving.
Conclusion
This slow cooker whole roasted cauliflower with butter sauce is a delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative twists you’ve added.
