Delia Smith Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

Delia Smith's Cauliflower Cheese is a quintessential British dish that combines the hearty texture of cauliflower with the richness of cheese, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. This recipe, featured in Delia's Complete How to Cook, is a testament to Smith's approach to classic dishes with a twist, making it a staple for both vegetarians and cheese lovers alike.

Brief Description of the Recipe Delia Smith's Cauliflower Cheese Recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to enjoy cauliflower. By incorporating two types of cheese and half-fat crème fraîche, this dish elevates the humble cauliflower into a creamy, indulgent treat. It's perfect as a main course for two or as a side dish for four, pairing well with rice or penne pasta for a delightful blend of English and Italian cuisines.

Cultural or Historical Context Cauliflower cheese is a beloved British classic, often served as part of a Sunday roast or as a comforting meal on its own. Delia Smith, a respected authority in British cooking, has contributed significantly to popularizing this dish through her easy-to-follow recipes that emphasize flavor and simplicity.

Ingredients List

• 1 medium cauliflower, separated into florets
• 40 g Parmesan (Parmigiano Reggiano), finely grated, plus an extra heaped tablespoon for finishing
• 40 g Gruyère, finely grated
• 2 heaped tablespoons half-fat crème fraîche
• 2 bay leaves, torn in half
• Freshly grated nutmeg
• 2 spring onions, very finely chopped, including the green parts
• Pinch of cayenne pepper

Preparation Instructions

1. Steam the cauliflower florets and leaves with bay leaf, nutmeg, and salt until tender.
2. Simmer crème fraîche with a bit of the steaming water, then add the cheeses until melted, seasoning the sauce to taste.
3. Combine the cauliflower and cheese sauce in a baking dish, topping with spring onions, extra Parmesan, and cayenne.
4. Grill until the top is browned and the sauce is bubbling.

Storage and Reheating Cauliflower cheese stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated in the oven or microwave to maintain its texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information This dish is rich in calcium and vitamins from the cauliflower and cheese, providing a good balance of nutrients. The use of half-fat crème fraîche also makes it a slightly lighter option compared to traditional recipes.

FAQ about Delia Smith's Cauliflower Cheese

• Can I use regular crème fraîche instead of half-fat? Yes, though it will increase the dish's richness and calorie content.
• Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time? Absolutely, you can steam the cauliflower and prepare the cheese sauce ahead, then combine and bake when ready to serve.

Delia Smith's Cauliflower Cheese is a testament to the comfort and joy that simple, well-prepared dishes can bring to the table. It's a recipe that honors tradition while allowing for personal touches, making it a must-try for anyone looking to explore British cuisine.

Original recipe by Delia Smith, as featured on Delia Online.