Steaming Cauliflower: Using Your Breville Multi-Cooker

Steaming cauliflower is a great way to retain its nutrients, texture, and flavour. Using a Breville multi-cooker for steaming cauliflower is a convenient and efficient method. The following is a step-by-step guide to steaming cauliflower in a Breville multi-cooker.

How to prepare the cauliflower for steaming

To prepare cauliflower for steaming in a Breville multi-cooker, start by removing the leaves and stem from the head of cauliflower. Then, cut the cauliflower into evenly sized florets, about 1-2 inches each. Alternatively, you can steam a whole cauliflower, but breaking it up into florets ensures more even cooking.

If you want to cut your cauliflower into florets, start by washing the cauliflower and removing any leaves at the bottom. Then, make a cut from the top of the crown to divide the cauliflower into 2 pieces. Now take each of these pieces and divide them into 2 again, so you have 4 quarters. Lay each quarter on a chopping board with the knife angled to cut out the core. Now you can easily pull apart the florets. If any florets are larger in size, you can cut them down further as needed.

Once your florets are ready, give them a quick rinse under cold water or use an ice bath to remove any dirt or debris. Then, pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towel.

How to steam the cauliflower in the Breville multi-cooker

How to Steam Cauliflower in the Breville Multi-Cooker

Preparation

Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut the cauliflower into evenly-sized florets, about 1-2 inches each. If you prefer larger florets, keep in mind that they may need an extra minute or two to cook.

Cooking

Place your steamer basket or trivet in the bottom of your Breville Multi-Cooker. Add 1 cup of water to the pot. This will create the steam that cooks your cauliflower.

Next, add your cauliflower florets to the steamer basket. Make sure they're in an even layer so they cook evenly. If you have a lot of cauliflower, you may need to cook it in batches.

Secure the lid on your Breville Multi-Cooker and ensure the valve is set to "sealing". Set the cooking time and pressure level for your recipe. Use the ""steam" function and set the cook time for 0-3 minutes, depending on how tender you like your cauliflower.

When the cook time is up, carefully do a quick release by turning the valve to "venting". Be cautious, as the steam will be hot. Once the pressure is fully released, open the lid and check your cauliflower for doneness. It should be tender but still have a bit of bite to it. If it's not quite done, you can always put the lid back on and cook for another minute or two.

Seasoning and Serving

Now that your cauliflower is cooked, it's time to season it. You can keep things simple with just a sprinkle of salt and pepper, or get creative with your seasonings.

Try tossing your steamed cauliflower with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for an Italian-inspired side dish. Or, for a Mexican twist, sprinkle on some cumin, chili powder, and lime juice.

You can also use your steamed cauliflower as a base for other recipes. Mash it up with some butter and cream for a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, or blend it into a creamy soup with broth and your favorite spices.

How to serve the steamed cauliflower

Once you've steamed your cauliflower in your Breville multi-cooker, it's time to serve it. Here are some ideas on how to do that:

Keep it Simple

You can keep it whole and drizzle with sauce, or slice it into "steaks". You can also remove the florets and add some sauce, or just toss them with salt and pepper.

Seasoning

A popular combination is olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs. You can also add lemon zest or juice for a tangy element. Alternatively, season with salt and pepper before steaming, or toss the steamed cauliflower with a knob of butter or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil.

Sauces

You can make a cheese sauce to pour over the cauliflower, or, for a more decadent option, try a basil pesto.

With Other Ingredients

You can serve steamed cauliflower as a side dish with salmon, shrimp, or pasta. It also goes well with roasted or grilled poultry and meats. For a low-carb option, serve it with gravy as an alternative to mashed potatoes.

In a Bowl

Make a grain bowl with brown rice, quinoa, or farro, then top with chickpeas or lentils, baby greens, and a sauce such as tahini.

Get Creative

Try making cauliflower rice, or pulsing the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice grains. You can also roast the florets, or toss them in a mixture of hot sauce, melted butter, and spices, then finish by broiling in the oven until crispy.

How to store leftover steamed cauliflower

To store leftover steamed cauliflower, it is best to keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Steamed cauliflower will last in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it. Here are some tips for storing leftover steamed cauliflower:

• Allow the cauliflower to cool to room temperature before storing it in the fridge.
• Place the cauliflower in an airtight container or a container with a tight-fitting lid.
• If you plan to eat the cauliflower within a few days, you can store it whole in the container. If you want to extend its shelf life, it is best to cut it into florets.
• Add a paper towel or kitchen towel to the container to absorb any excess moisture and help keep the cauliflower dry.
• Label the container with the date and try to eat the cauliflower within 3-5 days.

If you want to freeze leftover steamed cauliflower, you can follow these steps:

• Place the cauliflower florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the freezer until they are frozen solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the florets to a freezer bag or airtight container.
• Label the bag or container with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 1 year.

Other recipes using steamed cauliflower as a base

• Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce: This decadent sauce is a fantastic way to elevate your pasta dishes.
• Mushroom Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta Bake: A comforting and hearty meal that combines veggies and penne.
• Cauliflower Rice: An excellent low-carb alternative to traditional rice, perfect for stir-fries or as a side dish.
• Teriyaki Cauliflower: A flavourful dish with an Asian twist, perfect as a main course or side.
• Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice: A zesty and refreshing take on cauliflower rice, ideal for a summer meal.
• Cauliflower Rice Burrito Bowl: A hearty and satisfying option for lunch or dinner, packed with flavour.
• Roasted Frozen Cauliflower: Bring your steamed cauliflower to life with some roasting action for a crispy texture.
• Cauliflower Piccata with Lemon Caper Sauce: A zesty and tangy dish, perfect for those who enjoy a burst of citrus.
• Kung Pao Cauliflower: An Asian-inspired dish that packs a punch.
• Roasted Cauliflower Tacos: A fun and tasty twist on traditional tacos, perfect for a casual dinner.

Frequently asked questions