Description
Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower and Broccoli Cheese is a classic British dish where cauliflower and broccoli florets are baked in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, topped with extra cheese for a golden, bubbly finish.
Ingredients
- 1 large cauliflower (cut into florets)
- 1 large broccoli (cut into florets)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons plain flour
- 500ml milk
- 150g cheddar cheese (grated)
- 50g Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: A handful of breadcrumbs for a crispy topping
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower and broccoli florets and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are just tender but still firm. Drain well and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce becomes creamy.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated cheddar, Parmesan, and Dijon mustard. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Place the boiled cauliflower and broccoli in an ovenproof baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the vegetables, making sure they are well coated. For an extra crispy topping, you can sprinkle breadcrumbs and a bit of extra cheese on top.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Once baked, remove the cauliflower and broccoli cheese from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it as a side dish or as a main course with a fresh salad or crusty bread.