Description
This cauliflower puree, called Snow Velvet with Chive Oil, is a simple yet satisfying side dish that elevates weeknight meals or impresses guests. It uses a special technique to create an unbelievably smooth, rich puree from humble cauliflower.
Ingredients
- 1 large head fresh cauliflower (about 2 lbs or 900g)
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil (15g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth (470ml)
- 0.25 cup heavy cream or milk (60ml)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 0.25 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp good quality olive oil (45ml)
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, for cheesy umami boost)
- Pinch nutmeg (optional)
- Small amount lemon zest (optional)
- A couple of tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Cauliflower: Wash and chop one large head of cauliflower into 1-2 inch florets for even cooking.
- Saute Aromatics: In a large Dutch oven, melt 1 tbsp butter (or olive oil) over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Simmer until Tender: Add cauliflower florets and 2 cups broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Blend to Smoothness: Transfer cooked cauliflower and liquid to a high-speed blender or use an immersion blender. Add 0.25 cup cream (or milk), salt, and pepper, then blend until perfectly smooth and creamy.
- Make Chive Oil: While the puree is blending, finely chop 0.25 cup fresh chives. In a small bowl, combine chopped chives with 3 tbsp good quality olive oil and stir well.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper for the puree. Serve hot, drizzled generously with the chive oil.
Notes
For quicker prep, use pre-chopped cauliflower florets. If the puree is not smooth, continue blending patiently, adding a little more liquid (broth or cream) if needed. If too thin, simmer gently to reduce. Consider low-sodium broth for healthier cooking. Almond milk or oat milk can be substituted for a dairy-free version of the cream/milk. Choose a good quality, fruity olive oil for the chive oil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop, Blending
- Cuisine: General
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 0.75 cup (180 g)
- Calories: 175 calories
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 17 mg
Keywords: cauliflower puree, snow velvet, chive oil, easy side dish, healthy, creamy, vegetable, quick, comfort food