Steaming Cauliflower: Using A Pressure Cooker For Quick, Easy Veggies

Yes, you can steam cauliflower in a pressure cooker! It's a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook this versatile vegetable. The pressure cooker takes about 5 minutes to preheat and come up to pressure, and then you can cook the cauliflower for as little as 0 minutes for a crunchier texture, or up to a few minutes for a softer, more tender result.

How to prepare cauliflower for steaming

Preparing cauliflower for steaming is a simple process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Firstly, you will need to cut the cauliflower into florets. To do this, start by removing any leaves from the outside of the cauliflower head. Then, cut the head in half and remove the core using a knife. Cut the cauliflower into florets of roughly equal size, leaving the head of the florets intact to prevent crumbling. Try to ensure the florets are bite-sized, as this will help them cook more evenly.

Next, you will need to set up your steamer basket or colander by placing it inside a large pot and adding water. The water level should be just enough to cover the bottom of the basket or colander, typically around 1/2 inch to 1 inch. If you are using an Instant Pot, you can use the trivet that comes with it instead of a steamer basket.

Once your equipment is ready, it's time to add the cauliflower. Place the florets into the steamer basket or colander, ensuring they are in a single layer for even cooking.

Now, you are ready to begin steaming. Cover the pot with a lid and place it on the stove over high heat. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. For softer cauliflower, cook for 7-9 minutes. If you prefer your cauliflower to be tender-crisp, 5-6 minutes of steaming should suffice. You can test for doneness by piercing the cauliflower with a fork; it should pierce easily when done.

Finally, remove the lid carefully, being cautious of the hot steam. Serve the cauliflower immediately, or season it with herbs, salt, and pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavour.

With these simple steps, you can easily prepare cauliflower for steaming and enjoy a healthy and tasty side dish.

How to steam cauliflower in an Instant Pot

Steaming cauliflower in an Instant Pot is an easy, quick, and healthy way to cook this versatile vegetable. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving perfectly steamed cauliflower every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Start by rinsing the cauliflower head under cold running water. Remove any leaves, especially those at the bottom, as dirt can hide behind them. You can also peel off any outer leaves, although this step is optional.

Step 2: Cut the Cauliflower

For even cooking, it is best to cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. To do this effectively, first, cut the cauliflower head into two pieces from top to bottom through the centre. Then, take each piece and cut it into two again, so you have four quarters.

Lay each quarter on a cutting board, angling your knife to cut out the core. You can now easily pull apart the florets. If any florets are large, cut them into smaller, even-sized pieces.

Step 3: Set Up the Instant Pot

Add water to the Instant Pot. The amount of water will depend on the size of your pot and the amount of cauliflower you are cooking. As a guide, use 1/2 cup to 1 cup of water for a standard-sized Instant Pot.

Place a steamer basket or the trivet that came with your Instant Pot into the pot. If using a steamer basket, ensure it fits properly.

Step 4: Cook the Cauliflower

Place the cauliflower florets into the steamer basket or on the trivet. Close the lid and ensure the venting knob is in the sealing position.

For 2-3 cups of cauliflower florets, pressure cook on high for 0 minutes, then do a quick release. For a crunchier texture, try 0 minutes at low pressure. For 1 cup of florets, cook for 1 minute at high pressure for a crunchy texture, or 2 minutes for a tender texture.

The Instant Pot will take about 5 minutes to preheat and come up to pressure. Once the timer beeps, carefully turn the venting knob to the venting position to release the pressure.

Step 5: Serve the Cauliflower

Once the pressure is released, open the lid and remove the cauliflower. It is now ready to be served! You can keep it whole, slice it into steaks, or separate the florets.

If you want to add flavour, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, Italian seasoning, lemon zest, salt, and/or pepper. You can also add sauce or seasoning to the florets, or just add salt and pepper.

How long to steam cauliflower for

Steaming cauliflower in a pressure cooker is a quick and easy way to prepare this healthy vegetable. The cooking time will depend on the size of the cauliflower and your desired texture. Here is a step-by-step guide on how long to steam cauliflower in a pressure cooker:

Preparation:

First, rinse the cauliflower and remove any leaves. You can leave a few leaves intact, but make sure to peel them back and rinse well to remove any dirt. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. You can also steam a whole head of cauliflower, which is great for slicing into steaks, chopping into florets, or drizzling with sauce.

Cooking Time:

The cooking time will depend on the amount of cauliflower and your desired texture. Here are some general guidelines:

• For 2-3 cups of cauliflower florets, use high pressure for 0 minutes with a quick release.
• For 1 cup of florets, use high pressure for 1 minute for a crunchy texture, or 2 minutes for a tender texture, followed by a quick release.
• For a whole head of cauliflower, 1 minute of cooking time will result in a crisp texture, while 2 minutes will produce a tender head with a little texture. For a softer texture, increase the cooking time to 3 minutes.

Additional Tips:

• The amount of cauliflower and the amount of water used will affect the overall cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
• For a crunchier texture, try using 0 minutes at low pressure.
• Always use the quick-release function to prevent overcooking.
• Place the cooked cauliflower under cold water or in an ice bath to stop the cooking process and retain the desired texture.

Serving:

Season the steamed cauliflower with salt and pepper, or try mixing it with olive oil, Italian seasoning, and lemon zest for a Mediterranean-style side dish. You can also use the steamed cauliflower in recipes such as cauliflower soup, curry, or mash.

By following these guidelines, you can easily steam cauliflower in a pressure cooker to your desired texture and enjoy it as a healthy and tasty side dish or ingredient in your favourite recipes.

How to flavour cauliflower after steaming

Yes, you can steam cauliflower in a pressure cooker. Here are some ways to flavour it after steaming:

With herbs and seasoning

Drizzle steamed cauliflower with extra-virgin olive oil and add herbs and seasoning to taste. A blend of 2 teaspoons of chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon each of dill and tarragon, or 1 tablespoon of chopped basil and 1 teaspoon of chopped oregano are recommended combinations.

With lemon and salt

Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a pinch of flaky sea salt to your steamed cauliflower. You can also add freshly cracked black pepper.

With lemon zest and Italian seasoning

Mix steamed cauliflower with olive oil, Italian seasoning, and lemon zest.

With butter

You can also prepare steamed cauliflower with butter instead of olive oil.

With parmesan cheese

For a more decadent option, sprinkle steamed cauliflower with grated or shredded parmesan cheese.

How to store leftover cauliflower

Yes, you can steam cauliflower in a pressure cooker. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Wash the cauliflower and cut it into equal-sized florets.
• Add water to the pressure cooker and place a steamer basket inside.
• Put the cauliflower florets into the basket.
• Seal the pressure cooker and cook for 0-2 minutes, depending on the desired texture.
• Perform a quick release of the steam and open the lid.
• Carefully remove the basket and serve the cauliflower.

Now, onto storing leftover cauliflower. Here are some detailed instructions on how to do this:

Storing Leftover Cauliflower in the Fridge

Leftover cooked cauliflower should be stored in the fridge within two hours to maintain its safety and quality. Use shallow airtight containers or wrap the cauliflower tightly with heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic wrap. When properly stored, cooked cauliflower will last for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Storing Leftover Cauliflower in the Freezer

To extend the shelf life of cooked cauliflower, you can freeze it. Use covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, or wrap the cauliflower tightly with foil or freezer wrap. Frozen cauliflower will maintain its best quality for 10 to 12 months but will remain safe to eat beyond that.

Thawing Frozen Cauliflower

If you're thawing frozen cauliflower in the fridge, it can be kept for an additional 3 to 4 days before cooking. However, if you thaw it in the microwave or cold water, it should be eaten immediately.

Storing Fresh Cauliflower Heads in the Fridge

When storing fresh cauliflower heads in the fridge, use a loosely closed or perforated plastic bag. Keep the cauliflower stem-end up to prevent condensation from forming. Do not wash the cauliflower before storing, but make sure to wash it before use. Fresh cauliflower can last for 3 to 7 days in the fridge.

Storing Pre-Cut Cauliflower Florets in the Fridge

Pre-cut cauliflower florets should be stored for no more than 4 days in the fridge.

Frequently asked questions