Mary berry Cauliflower Cheese Recipe: A Comforting Classic with Vegan Options

Mary berry cauliflower cheese recipe is a popular comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect for family meals. In this article, I will show you how to make this dish. I’ll also share its history and give you detailed nutritional information. Plus, I’ll include a vegan version with specific ingredient recommendations.

I. Introduction

Mary Berry is a well-known name in British cooking. She is famous for her simple and tasty recipes. Her cauliflower cheese is a favorite among many. This dish turns a plain vegetable into something special. It is rich in flavor and creamy in texture. Let’s explore how to make this classic dish.

II. The Unique Approach of Mary Berry

A. Techniques and Historical Context

Cauliflower cheese has been around for a long time. It became popular during the Victorian era. Back then, it was a way to make vegetables more appealing by adding cheese sauce. According to food historians, this dish dressed up what might seem like a boring vegetable (source: Historic UK).

Mary Berry focuses on quality. She believes in making the cheese sauce from scratch. This method makes the sauce creamy and flavorful. She also adds a touch of nutmeg, which enhances the taste without overpowering the cauliflower.

III. Ingredients

To make Mary Berry’s cauliflower cheese, you will need:

• Cauliflower: 1 large of head, cut into florets
• Milk: 600 ml (whole milk is best for creaminess)
• Butter: 50 g
• Flour: 50 g
• Grated cheddar cheese: 200 g (choose a good quality, aged cheddar)
• Grated parmesan cheese: 50 g
• Garlic: 1 clove, minced
• Nutmeg: a pinch
• Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste
• Breadcrumbs: Optional, for topping

IV. Preparation

A. Preparation Time and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

B. Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepping the Cauliflower: Boil or steam the cauliflower florets until they are tender (about 5-7 minutes). Drain the cauliflower well to remove excess water.
2. Making the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. After this,Stir in the flour to make a roux. Cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and parmesan cheese, minced garlic, nutmeg, and seasoning.
3. Combining Cauliflower with Sauce: Gently fold the cooked cauliflower into the cheese sauce until it is evenly coated.
4. Transferring to the Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Topping with Breadcrumbs: If you want, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.

V. Cooking

A. Oven Temperature and Baking Guidelines

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Bake Time: Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

B. Recommended Kitchen Tools

You will need a baking dish, a whisk, and a saucepan for this recipe.

VI. Flavor Profile and Nutritional Considerations

Mary Berry’s cauliflower cheese is creamy and rich. The nutmeg adds warmth, while the garlic gives it a savory touch.

A. Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Serving Size: 1/6 of the recipe
• Calories: Approximately 280
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Calcium: Approximately 250 mg (25% of daily value)
• Vitamin A: Approximately 500 IU (10% of daily value)
• Vitamin C: Approximately 50 mg (55% of daily value)

This dish is high in calcium and vitamins from the cauliflower.

B. Tips for a Perfect Sauce

To prevent a watery sauce, make sure to drain the cauliflower thoroughly. Using aged cheddar will also enhance the flavor.

VII. Vegan Alternatives

If you want a vegan version of Mary Berry’s cauliflower cheese, here are the ingredients and instructions:

A. Vegan Ingredients

• Cauliflower: 1 large head, cut into florets
• Plant-Based Milk: 600 ml (almond milk or oat milk works well)
• Vegan Butter: 50 g (or coconut oil)
• All-Purpose Flour: 50 g
• Vegan Cheese: 200 g (look for a good melting cheese like Violife or Daiya)
• Nutritional Yeast: 2 tablespoons (for added cheese flavor)
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon (or 1 clove, minced)
• Nutmeg: a pinch
• Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste
• Breadcrumbs: Optional, for topping (make sure they are vegan)

B. Vegan Preparation Instructions

1. Prepping the Cauliflower: Boil or steam the cauliflower florets until they are tender (about 5-7 minutes). Drain well.
2. Making the Vegan Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking for about approximately 1 minute, then gradually whisk in the plant-based milk to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the vegan cheese, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, nutmeg, and seasoning.
3. Combining Cauliflower with Sauce: Gently fold the cooked cauliflower into the vegan cheese sauce until it is evenly coated.
4. Transferring to the Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Topping with Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if you want.

C. Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Bake Time: Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

VIII. Culinary Tips

A. Storage and Meal Prep Ideas

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to approximately three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

B. Kid-Friendly Adaptations

Get kids involved in the cooking process. Let them help mix the cheese sauce or sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.

IX. Conclusion

Mary Berry’s cauliflower cheese recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish. It shows her unique approach to British cooking. By using quality ingredients and simple techniques, this recipe truly stands out. The vegan alternative ensures everyone can enjoy this classic dish.

Call to Action

Try this recipe, share your experiences, and explore more of Mary Berry’s delightful dishes. Bring warmth and flavor into your home!

X. Additional Resources

For more delicious recipes and tips from Mary Berry, check out her cooking shows or recipe books. Here are some helpful links:

• Mary Berry’s Official Website
• BBC Good Food – Mary Berry Recipes
• Mary Berry’s Cooking Show on BBC iPlayer
• Food Network – Mary Berry Recipes

This recipe is about enjoying the process of cooking. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, Mary Berry’s cauliflower cheese is sure to impress.

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