Steaming Cauliflower: Using A Pressure Cooker The Right Way

Steaming cauliflower in a pressure cooker is a quick and easy way to cook this healthy vegetable. It's a great option if you're short on time and don't want to bother with active monitoring. This method also traps the cauliflower's strong smell almost entirely. You can steam a whole head of cauliflower or cut it into florets, depending on your preference. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and tenderness of the cauliflower, but it usually takes around 2 to 10 minutes.

How to prepare the cauliflower before steaming

Preparing cauliflower for steaming in a pressure cooker is simple and can be done in a few easy steps.

First, rinse the cauliflower head under cold running water. You can choose to remove the leaves or leave them intact. If you decide to keep the leaves, ensure you peel them back and rinse thoroughly to remove any dirt that might be hiding behind them.

Next, cut the cauliflower into florets. Start by cutting the cauliflower head from the top of the crown into two pieces. Then, take each piece and divide it into two again, so you have four quarters. Lay each quarter on a cutting board, positioning your knife at an angle to cut out the core. You can now easily separate the florets. If any florets are large, you can further cut them into smaller pieces.

Once you have the florets ready, you can proceed to steam them in your pressure cooker.

How long to steam the cauliflower for

The cooking time for cauliflower in a pressure cooker depends on the amount of cauliflower, the amount of water, and the desired texture.

For 2-3 cups of cauliflower florets, pressure cook on high for 0 minutes with a quick release. This will yield a tender texture. For a crunchier texture, pressure cook on high for 1 minute with a quick release. For 1 cup of cauliflower florets, pressure cook on high for 2 minutes with a quick release for tender cauliflower. For a crunchier texture, pressure cook on high for 1 minute with a quick release.

The pressure cooker takes about 5 minutes to "preheat" or come up to pressure before cooking. The cooking time for a whole head of cauliflower is 2 minutes for a tender head with a little texture. For a much softer texture, increase the cooking time to 3 minutes.

It is important to note that the cooking time for cauliflower in a pressure cooker is not a "one size fits all" and may vary depending on the specific cooker and the desired texture.

How to release the pressure

Releasing the pressure is an important step when steaming cauliflower in a pressure cooker. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

After the pressure cooker has finished steaming the cauliflower, it is crucial to release the pressure inside the cooker safely. The first step is to perform a quick release by moving the pressure release handle or vent to the "Venting" position. This will allow the steam to escape through the top valve. Make sure to use a towel or hot pad to cover your hand when doing this, as the steam is extremely hot. Do not put your hands or face near the vent when releasing the steam.

Once the quick release is done, you can open the lid of the pressure cooker. It is important to note that the cooker will still be hot, so use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves when handling it. After opening the lid, you can check the cauliflower for desired tenderness. If it is not tender enough, you can cook it for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute.

In some cases, you may want to stop the cooking process immediately to prevent overcooking. You can do this by placing the steamer basket with the cooked cauliflower under cold water for a couple of minutes or giving it an ice bath. This will quickly cool down the cauliflower and stop the cooking process.

Remember that the timing for releasing the pressure may vary depending on the size of your cauliflower and your desired level of doneness. Always refer to the user manual of your pressure cooker for specific instructions and safety guidelines.

By following these steps, you can safely release the pressure and enjoy perfectly steamed cauliflower as a healthy and delicious side dish.

How to serve the cauliflower

Now that you've steamed your cauliflower, it's time to serve it! Here are some ideas on how to do just that:

Seasoning

You can season your steamed cauliflower with a variety of herbs and spices. Try a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, along with some salt and pepper to taste. Fresh or dried herbs like basil, oregano, dill, tarragon, parsley, or thyme will add a nice flavour. You could also add some lemon zest and juice for a zesty twist.

As a Side Dish

Steamed cauliflower is a great side dish to serve alongside roasted or grilled meats and poultry. It pairs well with salmon, shrimp, or pasta.

As a Snack

Your steamed cauliflower can be enjoyed as a snack on its own or with a dipping sauce like ranch.

With Gravy

Surprisingly, steamed cauliflower goes well with gravy! It makes for a great low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes and gravy.

In a Bowl

Try adding your steamed cauliflower to a grain bowl! Start with a base of brown rice, quinoa, or farro, then add chickpeas or lentils, baby greens, and a tasty sauce like tahini.

As Mac and Cheese

For a cheesy treat, top your steamed cauliflower with your favourite mac and cheese sauce. You can also try mixing in some pesto or gouda for extra flavour.

Other Ideas

• Cauliflower is versatile and can be roasted, stir-fried, or made into soup.
• For a healthy option, cauliflower is a great alternative to potatoes or rice.
• You can also steam frozen cauliflower straight from frozen.

How to store leftover cauliflower

To store leftover cauliflower, you'll want to make sure it's properly stored so it doesn't go bad before you get a chance to eat it. Here are some tips to keep your cauliflower fresh and ready for your next meal:

Storing in the Fridge

Cauliflower can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days if kept properly. To do this, place the cauliflower in a shallow, airtight container or wrap it tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic wrap. Make sure to refrigerate the cauliflower within two hours of cooking.

It's also important to note that cauliflower needs air circulation, so don't seal the container or bag too tightly. You can also skip washing the cauliflower before storing it, as moisture can lead to discolouration or decay.

Storing in the Freezer

If you want to extend the shelf life of your leftover cauliflower, you can freeze it. First, cut the cauliflower into florets and blanch them for about three minutes in boiling water. Then, plunge the florets into an ice-water bath to stop the cooking process. Drain the cauliflower well and place the florets on a sheet pan. Freeze them until they are solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen cauliflower can last for 10 to 12 months in the freezer.

Signs That Your Cauliflower Has Gone Bad

If you're unsure whether your leftover cauliflower is still good to eat, there are a few signs you can look out for. The best way is to smell and look at the cauliflower. If it has an odd smell or appearance, it's best to discard it. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature, so if your cauliflower has been left out for more than two hours, it's best to throw it out.

Frequently asked questions