Baked Saxon Cauliflower

Oven-Baked Saxon Cauliflower: A Delicacy of Flavor and Aroma

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

In a world where vegetables are often overlooked, cauliflower proudly rises as a culinary star. This recipe for oven-baked Saxon cauliflower, with enticing aromas of sautéed onions and chicken pastrama, transforms a simple ingredient into a special dish, perfect for a light dinner or as a side at a festive meal. It is a straightforward recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends, and we will guide you step by step to achieve the best results.

Ingredients:

- 400 g of cauliflower: Choose fresh cauliflower with compact florets and no spots.
- 200 g of chicken pastrama or kaiser: This adds extra flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, go for smoked chicken breast.
- 100 g of cheese: We recommend cow cheese for a more intense flavor, but you can also use feta or telemea cheese.
- 100 g of sour cream: Choose full-fat sour cream for a creamy texture.
- 100 g of onion: Onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 1 bell pepper (optional): This is a colorful addition that provides a fresh note.
- 2 eggs: The eggs will help bind the ingredients together.
- 30 ml of oil: Use olive oil for a more sophisticated flavor, or sunflower oil.
- 4 cloves of garlic: Garlic adds an intense, aromatic flavor.
- 20 g of salt: Adjust the amount of salt according to your preference.
- 2 g of white pepper: This is milder and pairs perfectly with cauliflower.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the cauliflower:
Start by removing the leaves from the cauliflower and breaking it into evenly sized florets. It is important to wash each floret well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Then, place the florets in a pot of cold water, add a little salt and a tablespoon of milk. The milk helps maintain the white color and firm texture of the cauliflower. Boil for about 5-7 minutes until the cauliflower is slightly tender, then drain well.

2. The onion and garlic:
Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic. In a frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat and add the onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, then add the chopped garlic. Fry for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it, as garlic can become bitter.

3. Chicken pastrama:
Cut the chicken pastrama or kaiser into thin strips, then add them to the pan with the onion and garlic. Season with white pepper and continue to sauté until the pastrama becomes slightly crispy. Once ready, remove the mixture from the pan and set aside.

4. Assembling the dish:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a heat-resistant dish, add the boiled cauliflower florets. On top of these, add the mixture of pastrama with onion and garlic. In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream with the two beaten eggs. Pour this mixture evenly over the cauliflower and pastrama.

5. Finishing:
Grate the cheese over the dish. This will form a golden, appetizing crust during baking. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and has started to brown.

Serving and Variations:

Once the cauliflower is ready, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. It can be enjoyed on its own or alongside a fresh vegetable salad for a crunchy contrast. Additionally, a bottle of white wine or a fruit cocktail will perfectly complement the meal.

Practical Tips:
- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, to change the flavor. Also, adding vegetables like carrots or zucchini can enrich the dish.
- Creaminess: If you want an even creamier dish, add a bit of cottage cheese to the sour cream mixture.
- Spices: Feel free to add spices like sweet paprika or oregano to customize the flavors.

Nutritional Benefits:
Cauliflower is a vegetable rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is low in calories, with about 25 calories per 100 g, and is an excellent source of vitamin C and fiber. Chicken pastrama provides protein, while sour cream adds healthy fats. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, frozen cauliflower is a convenient option. Make sure to completely thaw it and drain it well before using.

2. What else can I add?
You can add olives, mushrooms, or even a few slices of tomatoes for extra flavor.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Oven-baked Saxon cauliflower keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

In conclusion, this recipe for oven-baked Saxon cauliflower is not only easy to prepare but also brings an extra touch of flavor to everyday life. Experiment with the ingredients and find the perfect combination for your tastes. Bon appétit!