Boiled cauliflower (8 min): perfectly cooked – Neary
Wondering how long to boil cauliflower so it's tender but not mashed? 🥦 Here's the super-easy method for cooking it successfully, retaining all its nutritional qualities, and enjoying it without the hassle. Boiled cauliflower is the perfect base for gratins, salads, or just a healthy snack! Discover our anti-waste tips, lots of recipe ideas, and the best times for each cut. 🥗
Tip: test with the tip of a knife, it should go in without resistance but the cauliflower should remain firm!
Cooking times for cauliflower in water
| Shape/cut | Quantity of water | Time | Trick | Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medium florets | Just cover | 8 min | Start with boiling salted water | Gratin, salad, pan-fried |
| Whole cauliflower | Water at height | 15 min | Prick the heart to check | Buffet, whole roast |
| Small bouquets (broken pieces) | Just cover | 6 min | Drain immediately after use | Puree, blend, soup |
| Stems & leaves | Just cover | 10 min | Simmering water departure | Creamy pesto soup |
How to cook cauliflower in water easily?
- Wash and separate the cauliflower into regular florets. Keep the stems and pretty leaves so nothing goes to waste 🌱.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (1 tsp of salt per liter is enough). Tip: add a dash of lemon juice or milk to keep the whiteness!
- Place the florets in boiling water. Stir to cover the entire cauliflower.
- Let it cook for 8 minutes at a low boil. For perfect cooking, test with the tip of a knife: it should sink in gently without crushing the floret.
- Drain immediately and run under cold water if you want to keep it crunchy (salad, appetizer) 🥒. Otherwise, use directly for gratin or pan-fried!
FAQ — Boiled Cauliflower
Why not overcook cauliflower in water?
To maintain a nice texture, prevent it from becoming mushy and preserve its vitamins 💪. Quick cooking also preserves the mild flavor and color of the cauliflower.
How to add more flavor to cooking?
Add a bay leaf, thyme, or a little curry powder to the water. You can also cook it in homemade broth for extra flavor 🔥!
Can cooking water be reused?
Yes! Use it for soup, a sauce base, or even to drizzle over other vegetables. It's full of minerals and zero waste 🌼.
Any ideas for leftover cooked cauliflower?
Of course! Blend them into a puree, slip them into a quiche, make a Parisian gratin , or roast them in a pan 🥘.
What varieties of cauliflower are there?
You can try purple, orange, or Romanesco cauliflower (green tip). Same cooking method, fun colors guaranteed!
Links to explore for cauliflower :
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