Cauliflower Steak

❤️ Why you’ll love it

I love how this cauliflower steak recipe gives you a great meatless alternative that is not only delicious but also hearty and satisfying. The secret lies in the simple yet flavorful seasonings that add a meaty flavor to the cauliflower.

Plus, the cooking method used here results in a steak that is tender on the inside but crunchy on the outside. It’s a texture that you will love.

This is not your average cauliflower recipe. It takes a simple, often bland vegetable and turns it into a show-stopping dish that is perfect for a special dinner or when you just want to impress your family and friends.

🧾 Key ingredients

This cauliflower steak recipe calls for simple, easy-to-find ingredients that will bring out the best flavors in this dish.

Fresh cauliflower is the star of this dish. When sliced into thick steaks and roasted, it becomes tender with a delicate, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the savory seasonings.

Garlic and rosemary are the key to infusing the cauliflower steaks with amazing flavor. The garlic becomes caramelized during roasting, adding a deep, mellow flavor, while the rosemary lends a piney, earthy note that is truly delicious.

A blend of spices, including onion powder, sweet smoked paprika, cumin, and mustard powder, adds a depth of flavor to the cauliflower steaks that is both smoky and slightly sweet.

🛒 You can find detailed measurements for all ingredients in the printable version of the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

🥘 Equipment

To make these delicious cauliflower steaks, the most important piece of equipment you will need is a good quality cast-iron skillet. Its ability to distribute heat evenly will help the cauliflower cook to perfection, allowing it to caramelize and develop a wonderful depth of flavor.

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Preparing the cauliflower steaks

STEP 1
Start by removing the leaves of the cauliflower. Then, cut off the stem at the bottom, along with any remaining leaves.

STEP 2
Place the cauliflower with the stem side down and cut the head in half. Use a sharp knife to cut a 1-inch slice from both halves. If your cauliflower is large, you may be able to cut two 1-inch thick slices from each half.

STEP 3
In a large stockpot, bring water to boil on the stovetop. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Use tongs to gently place the cauliflower slices in the hot water. Cover the pot with a lid and cook the slices for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a plate to cool.

Making the cauliflower steaks

STEP 1
Prepare the spice mix for the cauliflower steaks. In a small bowl, combine onion powder, mustard powder, smoked paprika powder, black pepper, and salt.

STEP 2
Place the pre-cooked cauliflower steaks on a plate or cutting board. Sprinkle the spice mix on both sides of the steaks. Gently press the spices onto the steaks to make them stick.

STEP 3
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add vegan butter to the skillet. Then, add the garlic cloves and fresh rosemary twigs. Place the cauliflower steaks in the skillet.

STEP 4
Fry the cauliflower steaks for 5 minutes on each side. The steaks should be crunchy, not too soft. You can test the doneness by piercing the stem part with the tip of a knife. It should be tender but not mushy.

💡 Expert tip

The key to achieving the perfect cauliflower steak is the thickness of your slices. Aim for one-inch thick steaks to ensure they hold up during the cooking process. If your steaks are too thin, they might fall apart, and if they are too thick, the inside may not cook properly.

🔄 Variations

For a tangy twist, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the cauliflower steaks during the last few minutes of cooking.

You can also experiment with different spice blends. Try a Cajun-inspired version by adding some cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano to the spice mix. This will give your cauliflower steaks a spicy kick and a unique flavor profile.

If you are a fan of herbs, consider adding a tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme or oregano to the spice mix. These herbs will bring a refreshing and aromatic flavor to the dish, complementing the earthy cauliflower, and adding a pop of color to your plate.

🥣 Serving ideas

These vegan cauliflower steaks are a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. I love serving them with a side of vegan mashed potatoes and a drizzle of green peppercorn sauce for a comforting and hearty meal.

In addition to this classic combination, they also pair beautifully with a range of other side dishes. Consider serving them with roasted asparagus and mushrooms for a fresh and earthy twist, or with sautéed julienned carrots for a pop of color and crunch.

For a more traditional option, they can also be served with a range of potato dishes, such as vegan scalloped potatoes, roasted potatoes, or a creamy polenta. The options are truly endless, and you can mix and match to find your perfect combination.

❄️ Storing tips

Storing and reheating these cauliflower steaks is a cinch, and the great news is that the flavors only get better over time. The key is to separate the steaks from any accompanying sauce or side dishes.

To store, allow the steaks to cool completely. Once cooled, place them in separate airtight containers and pop them in the fridge. They should stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 or 4 days.

If you prefer to freeze them, you can do so in airtight containers or resealable freezer bags. They should be good in the freezer for about a month. Just be aware that the crispy crust may become a bit soggy upon thaw.

You can reheat the steaks in the microwave or a frying pan. Start with low heat, as you don’t want to burn the spices.

🤔 FAQs