Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower (vegan)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower is a delightful vegan twist on a classic comfort food. This dish offers all the creamy goodness of traditional mashed potatoes, but with a lighter, healthier profile. The secret lies in the cauliflower, which, when steamed and blended, transforms into a velvety puree that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Add in roasted garlic for a depth of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.
Historically, cauliflower has been a staple in various cuisines for centuries, often celebrated for its versatility and health benefits. It’s believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region, and over time, it has made its way into countless dishes around the world. Today, it’s a favorite among those seeking lower-carb alternatives to starchy vegetables. With this recipe, you can enjoy the creamy texture and rich flavor without the guilt.
To make this dish even more appealing, we’ve added a touch of nutritional yeast, which not only enhances the flavor but also provides a cheesy, umami kick that’s perfect for vegan diets. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to indulge in something that tastes this good while still feeling virtuous? So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking. Just remember, if anyone asks, you can always say you’re just trying to “cauli-fy” your meals!
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Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower florets
- 6 cloves garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your cauliflower. Remove the leaves and stem from one head of cauliflower, then cut it into florets. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Next, peel 6 cloves of garlic and set them aside. You can roast them alongside the cauliflower for a sweeter, milder flavor.
- In a large pot, bring about 2 inches of water to a boil. Place a steamer basket in the pot, making sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the basket.
- Add the cauliflower florets and garlic cloves to the steamer basket. Cover the pot and steam for about 15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is fork-tender.
- While the cauliflower is steaming, prepare your blending equipment. A high-speed blender or food processor works best for achieving a creamy texture.
- Once the cauliflower and garlic are done steaming, carefully transfer them to the blender. Be cautious of the hot steam.
- Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk, 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper to the blender.
- Blend the mixture on high until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
- Taste the mashed cauliflower and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or nutritional yeast to suit your preference.
- Once blended to your desired consistency, transfer the creamy garlic mashed cauliflower to a serving bowl.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a lovely herbal note.
- Serve immediately while warm. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, from roasted vegetables to hearty vegan proteins.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Enjoy your creamy garlic mashed cauliflower, and remember, it’s not just a side dish; it’s a conversation starter!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 120
- Carbs g: 10
- Protein g: 3
- Fat g: 7
- Sugar g: 1
