Description

Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese is a classic dish made by combining cooked cauliflower with a creamy cheese sauce, then baking it until golden and bubbly. It’s a rich and delicious way to enjoy cauliflower, and it can be served as a side dish or main course.

Ingredients

Scale

1 large cauliflower (cut into florets)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

500ml milk

150g cheddar cheese (grated)

50g Parmesan cheese (grated)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 2: Cook the Cauliflower

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5-7 minutes, until they are just tender but still firm. Drain the cauliflower and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Continue cooking the sauce for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until it becomes creamy.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Mustard

Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Cauliflower Cheese

Place the cooked cauliflower florets in a large ovenproof dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top, making sure all the cauliflower is well coated. If desired, sprinkle a little extra grated cheese on top for a golden crust.

Step 6: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve

Remove the cauliflower cheese from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired, and serve hot as a side dish or main course.