Hairy Biker Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

Delve into the world of comfort food with the Hairy Bikers' Cauliflower Cheese recipe, a dish that's both comforting and satisfying, perfect for those cozy nights in or chilly days. This recipe not only offers a rich and creamy taste but also brings a hint of spice and a delightful crunch, making it a versatile dish that can easily be adapted to suit various tastes and preferences.

Ingredients for the Hairy Bikers' Cauliflower Cheese

To prepare this dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 large cauliflower, cut into florets
• 500 ml whole milk
• A selection of aromatic spices: 2 bay leaves, 1 mace blade, and a few peppercorns
• 30 g butter
• 30 g plain flour
• Seasonings: ½ tsp mustard powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, sea salt, and white pepper
• 100 g of either cheddar or gruyère cheese, grated
• For a spicy and crunchy topping (optional): 4 slices of bacon or lardons, chopped, and 2-3 jalapeño peppers, sliced

Preparation Instructions for Hairy Bikers' Cauliflower Cheese

1. Preheat and Prepare Cauliflower: Start by preheating your oven and boiling the cauliflower florets until tender yet firm. Then, arrange them in an ovenproof dish.
2. Infuse the Milk: Heat the milk with bay leaves, mace, and peppercorns to infuse it with aromatic flavors.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce: Create a smooth roux with butter, flour, mustard powder, and cayenne pepper, then gradually incorporate the infused milk. Add most of the cheese to this mixture, seasoning to taste.
4. Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, add the remaining cheese, and if you're using them, top with bacon and jalapeños. Bake until golden and bubbly.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. For reheating, choose either the oven or microwave to warm through, adding extra cheese on top if desired.

Nutritional Information

This dish provides a good source of calcium and protein, especially when made with high-quality cheese. However, the exact nutritional values will vary based on the specific ingredients used.

FAQ about the Hairy Bikers' Cauliflower Cheese

• Can I make it vegetarian? Yes, simply omit the bacon and ensure your cheese is vegetarian.
• What cheeses can I use? The recipe is flexible; cheddar or Gruyère are recommended, but feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses.
• Can this dish be prepared in advance? Yes, you can assemble it ahead of time and bake before serving, or fully cook and reheat later.

Embrace the warmth and richness of the Hairy Bikers' Cauliflower Cheese, a dish that promises to satisfy your comfort food cravings with its creamy texture, aromatic spices, and customizable toppings. Whether served as a main or a side, it's sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection​​​​​​.