Cauliflower was one of the first vegetables we actually liked as kids, and we're still eating them today! Despite their rather impenetrable-seeming appearance, cauliflowers are actually pretty easy to break down into bite-sized florets. Here's how we do it:
Basic Technique: How to Cut Cauliflower
First of all, we usually wash cauliflower after cutting it. There are so many nooks and crannies that we think it's easier to get any grit washed out once it's broken into pieces.
To do this, start by cutting the head of cauliflower in half and then into quarters through the core.
See how there's a central stem in the middle? All the florets are attached to this core by their own little stems. Separating them is a simple matter of running your knife between the florets and the stem to cut it out.
Once you've removed the stem, the cauliflower will naturally fall apart into large florets.
You can break these large florets down into smaller, bite-sized florets with your knife. Use the tip of your knife like a wedge to cut away the smaller florets growing off the sides. The big ones can just be cut into quarters. You can also use your fingers to snap apart the florets.
And that's all there is to it! A cauliflower of this size breaks down into 3-4 cups worth of florets, which is plenty for most side dishes serving 4 people.
The stems are edible, though very fibrous. If you want to cook them, start steaming or roasting them a little ahead of time to give them a jumpstart on cooking before you add the florets.
Is this how you cut cauliflower, or do you have another way?
Related: Recipe Round-Up: Roasted Cauliflower
(Images: Emma Christensen for the Kitchn)
Comments (4)
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I usually core it. Cut out that one big stem, then break up the florets by hand. Then roast 'em!
view mangabanga's profile
I usually turn it upside down, chop off the stem from the bottom and any leaves then use a knife to cut up the florets at their stem from the bottom. Any big pieces I break up by hand. Then I rinse all of the florets.
Btw this is a great post b/c often times not knowing how to actually prep a vegetable can be the biggest roadblock to buying it! I felt that way about fennel and beets for the longest time :)
view nithya at hungrydesi's profile
Great post!
Now, the best way to eat this cauliflower is to roast at high heat. Drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper then place on a cookie sheet or pyrex or glass pan. Place in oven at about 400-watch closely so it does not burn. Cook until al dente or your preferred doneness. You'll never cook cauliflower any other way after you've tasted this!
view Robin P's profile
The lazy way to cook cauliflower is to wash the whole head and then steam it. It's actually impressive (in some circles; ok, mine) to present a whole steamed head of cauliflower. I like to cook it this way for myself and then keep it in the fridge and eat as needed--get all the cooking done at once, no muss, no fuss. My mom came up with this method.
view Pixie's profile