Imagine a side dish so luxurious, so packed with deep, complex flavors that it transforms an ordinary vegetable into a culinary masterpiece. This Caramelized Onion and Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower isn't just a recipe—it's a flavor revolution that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your dining experience. With the rich sweetness of caramelized onions, the mellow depth of roasted garlic, and the silky smoothness of perfectly mashed cauliflower, this dish promises to be the star of your next meal.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower
- 2 onions
- 1 whole garlic bulb
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the whole garlic bulb in half horizontally, exposing the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and wrap loosely in aluminum foil.
- Slice onions into thin, uniform rings. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat and add 1 tablespoon butter. Slowly caramelize onions, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown and soft (approximately 20-25 minutes).
- While onions are caramelizing, chop cauliflower into medium-sized florets. Place garlic packet and cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast garlic and cauliflower in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until cauliflower is tender and slightly golden, and garlic is soft and fragrant.
- Remove roasted garlic from oven. Squeeze roasted garlic cloves from their skins into a large mixing bowl.
- Steam cauliflower florets until very tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and pat dry.
- Add steamed cauliflower to the bowl with roasted garlic. Add remaining butter and cream.
- Mash cauliflower using a potato masher or immersion blender until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in caramelized onions, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with additional caramelized onions if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Patience is key when caramelizing onions - use low, slow heat to develop those deep, sweet flavors.
- For the most luxurious texture, thoroughly drain and pat dry your steamed cauliflower to prevent watery mashed cauliflower.
- Use a high-quality cream and butter for maximum richness and flavor.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender instead of a potato masher.
- Don't skip roasting the garlic - it transforms the cloves into a sweet, mellow flavor bomb.
- For extra indulgence, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh chives or grated Parmesan on top before serving.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and gently reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
