Brazilian recipe
Baked cauliflower with Requeijão (Couve-flor gratinada com requeijão)
A simple and comforting oven-baked cauliflower dish, featuring a rich, creamy sauce and a golden parmesan crust. This vegetarian side is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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Ingredients
1 medium cauliflower
Water and salt to taste, for boiling
1 tub (approx. 200g) of Requeijão
Grated parmesan cheese to taste
Crispy shoestring potatoes (batata palha) to taste
Water and salt to taste, for boiling
1 tub (approx. 200g) of Requeijão
Grated parmesan cheese to taste
Crispy shoestring potatoes (batata palha) to taste
Where to find ingredients
Cauliflower, herbs, and cheese can be found at any major supermarket produce and deli aisles. Requeijão is a specific Brazilian creamy processed cheese; look for it in the international fridge section of local specialty grocers or independent delis. If unavailable, a thick, full-fat cream cheese mixed with a splash of milk or double cream can be used as a substitute, though the flavour profile will differ.
Preparation method
- Boil the cauliflower in salted water until it is al dente, being careful not to overcook it, then set aside.
- Place the cooked cauliflower in the centre of a baking dish and arrange the shoestring potatoes around the edges.
- In a small saucepan, gently warm the Requeijão over low heat.
- Season the warmed Requeijão with herbs such as finely chopped parsley and spring onions, stirring well to combine.
- Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the cauliflower in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese liberally over the top.
- Place the dish in a preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Observations
This baked cauliflower dish, featuring a creamy sauce made with Requeijão, is a classic vegetarian choice that offers a perfect balance of textures and flavours. The cauliflower is cooked until just tender, ensuring it retains a slight bite, while the luscious, savoury Requeijão sauce and the golden, bubbly parmesan topping create an irresistible combination. It makes for an excellent side dish to round out a main meal or can stand alone as a satisfying light lunch.
Preparing this dish is straightforward and requires no complex techniques, making it an excellent option for both busy weeknight dinners and special gatherings. By parboiling the cauliflower before assembly, you ensure that it is cooked through perfectly once it finishes in the oven. The final result is a beautifully browned, bubbling dish that is sure to impress.
Preparing this dish is straightforward and requires no complex techniques, making it an excellent option for both busy weeknight dinners and special gatherings. By parboiling the cauliflower before assembly, you ensure that it is cooked through perfectly once it finishes in the oven. The final result is a beautifully browned, bubbling dish that is sure to impress.
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