Hairy Bikers Cauliflower Cheese Recipe
If you crave ultimate comfort you must try this Hairy Bikers Cauliflower Cheese Recipe. Many home cooks wonder how to make Hairy Bikers Cauliflower Cheese perfectly every single time.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of fresh cauliflower cut into florets
- 50 grams of unsalted butter
- 50 grams of plain all-purpose flour
- 600 ml of whole milk room temperature is best
- 150 grams of strong cheddar cheese grated
- 1 teaspoon of English mustard for a little zing
- A pinch of fresh nutmeg
- 25 grams of Parmesan cheese for the crust
- 2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs optional for extra crunch
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Cauliflower
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5 minutes until just tender. Drain them well in a colander and set aside.
Make the Butter Roux
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in the flour with a wooden spoon. Cook this paste for 1 to 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Build the Creamy Sauce
- Slowly pour the milk into the pan while whisking constantly. Keep whisking over medium heat until the sauce becomes thick and smooth. This step prevents any lumps from forming in your cheese sauce.
Melt in the Flavor
- Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the cheddar cheese, English mustard, and nutmeg. Season with a bit of salt and pepper until the cheese is fully melted and luscious.
Combine in the Dish
- Place the drained cauliflower florets into your baking dish. Pour the rich cheese sauce over the top. Ensure every piece of cauliflower is tucked under a blanket of creamy sauce.
Bake to Golden Perfection
- Sprinkle the Parmesan and breadcrumbs over the top. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 200°C for 20 minutes. Bake until the top is bubbly, brown, and very crispy
Notes
- Dry the Cauliflower: Ensure the cauliflower is very dry after boiling. Excess water can make your cheese sauce too thin and runny.
- Add some Bacon: Fry some bacon bits and mix them in for a salty, smoky flavor.
- Try Different Cheeses: Mix Red Leicester or Gruyère with the cheddar for a deeper, more complex taste.
- Veggie Boost: Add some broccoli florets alongside the cauliflower for a "Co-op" style mixed vegetable bake.
- Low Carb Tip: Skip the breadcrumbs and flour roux by using a heavy cream and egg yolk base.