Plain cauliflower is fulfilling on its own. But roasted? Entirely different. We all grew up eating steamed cauliflower, which is fine, but have you ever tried roasted cauliflower? It will transform you into a cauliflower addict. Hard to believe? Then, try this Jamie Oliver roasted cauliflower.
When our chef made this recipe, we hoped it would meet our expectations. As and when he presented it, it was more than yum. It was nutty, smokey, and buttery, with crispy edges. I’m sure you won’t avoid this veggie the next time.
But, before you jump down to the recipe, you need to make sure to coat the seasoning evenly with olive oil and spice mixture. It will help spices adhere to cauliflower and add flavor. Moreover, when serving, serve it hot while it’s crispy. It’s best enjoyed when hot and comes directly from the oven.
This post has everything you need to know about the roasted cauliflower recipe. All you have to do is go by the guide and enjoy the exact flavors at home. Give it a try today and elevate your dinner experience.
What's In The Post
Is This The Exact Jamie Oliver Roasted Cauliflower Recipe?
This recipe is very close to the original Jamie Oliver roasted cauliflower recipe. The only difference is our chef has used red wine vinegar instead of dry sherry to coat the cauliflower. Else, all the ingredients and the method are the same.
It was difficult to recreate this recipe, but the results were remarkable. It has smoky and tangy flavors when roasted. Besides this, it has a tender and golden brown exterior with a slightly crispy and moist interior. Overall, it is incredible and commendable.
Why You’ll Love This Jamie Oliver Roasted Cauliflower?
Roasting any kind of vegetable is delicious, but when it comes to roasting cauliflower, it is fun.
There are many reasons to love this recipe. Some of them are:
- It is perfect for those on a low-carb diet.
- When roasted, cauliflower yields nutty and buttery without the addition of nuts.
- You can pair it with any recipe you’re having for dinner.
Equipment Required For Jamie Oliver Roasted Cauliflower
- Oven – You’ll need an oven to roast the cauliflower. Preheat the oven to the specified temperature for the recipe before placing the baking sheet with the cauliflower.
- Baking Tray – Use a baking tray to roast the cauliflower.
- Baking Sheet – Take a flat baking sheet that you will use to place the cauliflower on while it roasts in the oven. Make sure to take a sheet with a rim, as it helps contain any juices or drippings that come out of the cauliflower while it cooks.
- Frying Pan – Toast the almonds in a frying pan until aromatic.
- Pestle And Mortar – Bash the spices to a rough paste with pestle and mortar.
- Bowl – Mix all the ingredients in the bowl.
- Cutting Board – Use a cutting board to chop the veggies on it.
- Knife – Get a chef’s knife to chop off the floret heads of the cauliflower.
- Spatula – You’ll use this utensil to toss the cauliflower with the marinade or seasoning and to turn the florets over while they roast.
- Kitchen Towel – Use a kitchen towel to remove the baking sheet from the oven when the cauliflower is roasting. The tray will be hot, so be cautious when handling it.
Jamie Oliver Roasted Cauliflower Ingredients
- Cauliflower – This is the key ingredient in this recipe. The florets are roasted in the oven to give a crunchy, smoky flavor.
- Olive Oil – Drizzle olive oil over roasted cauliflower to let the seasoning stick.
- Lime Juice – For the tangy approach to the dish, add lime juice on top of the cauliflower.
- Red Wine Vinegar – Add red wine vinegar for the vanilla and oak flavors to the cauliflower. It will add depth of flavors to the dish.
- Tomatoes – Roast tomatoes along with cauliflower for a tangy, flavorful cooking. They are high in Vitamin C and add nutritional value to this recipe.
- Garlic – Garlic adds a strong, aromatic flavor. It also adds many health benefits, like boosting your immune system.
- Almonds – Toast almonds in the frying pan for a rich, nutty flavor. Also, it adds a nice crunchy texture to the dish.
- Parsley – Top the whole roasted cauliflower with fresh parsley leaves for a refreshing note.
- Thyme – Thyme will add minty, savory but sweet and slightly woodsy flavor to the cauliflower.
- Paprika – Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for the spiky kick.
- Salt – Balance the dish’s taste with salt as per your taste.
- Black Pepper – Sprinkle black pepper over the partially cooked cauliflower for a spicy kick.
Jamie Oliver Roasted Cauliflower Ingredients Substitutions
The ingredients our chef has used are quite basic and readily available. Using them will yield you the exact result. However, if you can’t find any or want to elevate the flavor, look at these substitutes. The options mentioned below will work best:
- Cauliflower – This recipe calls for whole cauliflower. If you can’t find them, substitute them with other veggies such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts.
- Olive Oil – We’ve used olive oil to make a rough paste and to drizzle over the cauliflower. However, if you don’t have olive oil, use vegetable oil, avocado oil, melted butter, or even ghee as a substitute.
- Lemon – We’ve freshly squeezed lemon juice over the cauliflower to add a tangy brightness to the roasted cauliflower. If you don’t have a fresh lemon, substitute it with other citrus fruits like lime or orange.
- Herbs And Spices – We’ve added thyme to our seasoning paste. Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary or spices like cumin or turmeric.
What Does Jamie Oliver Has In His Roasted Cauliflower Seasoning
Jamie Oliver has used basic ingredients in his roasted cauliflower seasoning. These basic ingredients typically include:
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is added to the paste to coat the cauliflower and let it brown in the oven.
- Thyme – Jamie Oliver has used herbs like thyme to add minty, sweet, and flowery flavors to the cauliflower.
- Garlic: The chef has bashed the fresh garlic cloves in the pestle and mortar to add a savory and intense note.
- Paprika – Paprika has been added to the seasoning paste for a smoky and slightly sweet taste.
- Salt: Salt will enhance the flavor of the smoky cauliflower.
- Black pepper: Black pepper is added to the paste to add heat and complement the other flavors.
Does Cauliflower Need To Be Washed Before Roasted?
Yes, it is highly recommended to wash cauliflower before roasting it. Like any other vegetable, cauliflower too, can have dirt, debris, or potential contaminants on its surface. Washing them thoroughly can help remove any impurities and ensures that you’re starting with a clean and safe ingredient.
The only reason behind this is to ensure food safety and cleanliness, providing you with a better end result.
Jamie Oliver Roasted Cauliflower Preparation And Cooking Time
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 Minutes | 1 Hour 15 Minutes | 1 Hour 25 Minutes |
Jamie Oliver Roasted Cauliflower Recipe Steps
Step 1- Add peeled garlic to a pestle and mortar.
Step 2- Now, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
Step 3- Half a teaspoon of thyme with salt and pepper is added to the pestle.
Step 4- Bash the mixture well with a tablespoon of olive oil using mortar until a rough paste is formed.
Step 5- Rub the paprika paste all over the cauliflower and transfer it to the baking dish.
Step 6- Drizzle over the red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and olive oil, and sprinkle the seasoning on top.
Step 7- Pour the slices of tomatoes into the baking dish.
Step 8- Pop the baking dish in the oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes until tender.
Step 9- Meanwhile, toast half a cup of almonds in a frying pan.
Step 10- Scrunch almonds over the roasted cauliflower and our Jamie Oliver Roasted Cauliflower is ready.
Tips To Make This Roasted Cauliflower Recipe Better
Cauliflower wins the race as a low-carb alternative to rice or potatoes. But the flavor and texture may sometimes mess up when not cooked properly. That is why we’ve jotted down tips to improve this roasted cauliflower.
- Don’t Crowd The Pan – Cauliflower contains water at a high level, so it won’t get crispy if you bake it crowded. Make sure to give a bit of room to each cauliflower (if roasting florets), so they have space for airflow, or else it will boil.
- Bake At High Temperature – Preheat the oven high enough to get crispy, golden cauliflower edges. But make sure not to heat so high that the cauliflower burns. We recommend baking cauliflower at 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Turn Halfway – We recommend flipping the veggie halfway until each side gets caramelized.
- Seasoning – Salt is a must in any roasted recipe. It will elevate the taste of the bland cauliflower. Even a simple salt and pepper will make this recipe come alive. So, toss florets in your favorite seasoning blend or sauce before roasting.
- Proper Cooking – Do not overcook or undercook the cauliflower. Otherwise, it will break apart if overcooked. Or it will become hard if undercooked. So, cook the veggie within the time frame to get a tender-crisp cauliflower.
- Use Right And Enough Oil – Drizzle olive oil evenly over the veggie. But, remember not to drown the veggie in oil, else it will get dry or burn. Besides this, use the right oil for that perfect texture.
Can You Air-Fry This Recipe?
Yes, of course, you can absolutely air-fry roasted cauliflower! It is a popular alternative to traditional roasting methods as it uses less oil and yields a crispy texture. Air frying cauliflower instead of roasting it will provide you a perfectly tender, crispy, and flavorful cauliflower.
Why Is Your Roasted Cauliflower Tough?
If you have followed the exact recipe, there are less chances of getting your roasted cauliflower tough. Still, if you landed in this situation, you need to know the reasons. I’ve listed a few reasons, which might be the cause of getting your roasted cauliflower tough.
- Undercooking – Cauliflower has a high water level, so it needs enough time to roast. It will be firm and tough if it’s not cooked for a specified time. So, check the cauliflower at regular intervals until it is done. If it’s not tender, continue roasting until it reaches the desired texture.
- High Heat And Short Cooking Time – High heat is necessary for crispy and caramelized edges. However, if the heat is too high and you’ve less cooking time, it is possible that your cauliflower may not be fully cooked and become tender. So, adjust the temperature and time accordingly.
- Unevenly-Sized Florets – If you are roasting florets instead of the whole cauliflower, they should be cut into similar sizes. Otherwise, some florets will be left tender while others remain tough.
- Lack Of Moisture – As mentioned earlier, cauliflower contains moisture. Still, it may become tough if it’s not properly coated with the seasonings. So, toss the cauliflower with enough seasonings to promote even cooking.
- Overcooking – if undercooking is a problem, overcooking, on the other hand, is bad too. So, if you roast cauliflower for too long, it can become overcooked and tough, resulting in a less desirable texture.
Why Is Your Roasted Cauliflower Soggy?
Following this recipe will yield a crispy exterior. Still, if your roasted cauliflower turns out soggy instead of crispy, you need to understand these reasons:
- Excess Moisture – The moisture content in the cauliflower will be a barrier for crispy roasted cauliflower. So, ensure your cauliflower is thoroughly dried and doesn’t contain moisture on its surface. Otherwise, it can steam instead of roast, resulting in a soggy texture.
- Overcrowding The Baking Sheet – If you are roasting florets instead of the whole cauliflower, ensure not to overcrowd the baking sheet. Otherwise, they will release more moisture during cooking, leading to steaming rather than roasting. So, leave space between the florets for hot air to circulate and promote even browning.
- Insufficient Oil – Oil plays a key role in achieving crispiness as it helps the seasoning to stick to the veggie. But if the cauliflower is not adequately coated with oil, the result would be soggy cauliflower. So, rub the cauliflower with enough oil to coat them evenly.
- Low Oven Temperature – Roasting cauliflower at a low temperature can result in less browning and a soggy texture. Ensure your oven is preheated to a sufficiently high temperature, typically around 425-450°F (220-230°C), for the crispy exterior.
- Roasting Time – Roasting cauliflower for too long can lead soggy texture. So, it is important to cook the cauliflower until it’s tender. Overcooking the cauliflower will release more moisture from the veggie and become mushy.
Jamie Oliver Roasted Cauliflower Nutritional Values
This homemade version of Jamie Oliver roasted cauliflower is very healthy as this recipe uses clean and healthy ingredients. This cauliflower recipe is perfect if you are on a low carb diet. However, if you want to know more about its nutritional value, take a look at this table.
| Calories | 107 kcal |
| Sodium | 745 mg |
| Potassium | 189 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 6.2 g |
| Sugar | 2.6 g |
| Protein | 2.5 g |
How To Keep Your Roasted Cauliflower From Being Mushy?
To keep your roasted cauliflower from becoming mushy, consider these tips:
- Dry The Cauliflower Thoroughly – Before roasting the veggie, it is necessary to pat dry the cauliflower well. Moisture on the cauliflower can lead to steaming rather than roasting, resulting in a mushy texture.
- Cut Into Similar-Sized Florets: Cut the cauliflower into uniform-sized florets if roasting the whole veggie is difficult. It will ensure that each floret is cooked evenly and finished faster, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Use High Heat – Always roast your veggie at a high temperature, typically around 425-450°F (220-230°C). It will help moisture to evaporate, promoting browning and preventing the cauliflower from becoming mushy.
- Spread Out The Florets – If roasting florets, spread the cauliflower florets evenly on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding. Otherwise, it will lead to a moisture buildup, leading them to steam instead of roasting.
- Season Appropriately – It is essential to properly season the cauliflower with seasonings or oil. Otherwise, they can contribute to excess moisture.
How to Store Jamie Oliver Roasted Cauliflower?
Roasted cauliflower is most tender and flavorful when freshly roasted and eaten immediately. Even if you can’t complete them today, you can always put them in storage for later. Remember, though, that the texture of this recipe may affect if you store it for a time. Nonetheless, here are several storage choices to consider.
- To Refrigerate – Cut the cauliflower into florets and keep them in an airtight container to keep Jamie Oliver’s roasted cauliflower for up to four days.
- To Freeze – If you want to save this roasted veggie for an extended period, freezing them is your best bet. To do this, you can place the florets or leftover portion in a zip-top freezer bag or other freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Please put them in the fridge the night before reheating them.
What To Serve With This Jamie Oliver Roasted Cauliflower?
Roasted cauliflower is flavorful. It can go well with any dish due to its mild flavor. Here are a few options to consider:
- Chicken In The Milk – Jamie Oliver chicken in milk recipe is a great way to add some extra flavor and nutrients with the low-carb roasted cauliflower.
- Pork Tenderloin – Roasted cauliflower will go best with a fancy dinner like pork tenderloin. It is packed with flavor, making it a comfort meal.
- Chicken Nuggets – Chicken nuggets will go best with roasted cauliflower. The contrasting flavors will take your dinner to the next level.
- French Onion Soup – Serve your roasted cauliflower with this Jamie Oliver French Onion Soup. It is the perfect combination of elegance and comfort.
Recipe Card
Jamie Oliver Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
- Bowl
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Spatula
- Kitchen Towel
Ingredients
- 1 head Cauliflower
- 4 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Lime Juice
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 2 Tomatoes (sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic
- ½ cup Almonds
- 1 sprig Parsley
- ½ tablespoon Thyme
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- Add peeled garlic to a pestle and mortar.
- Now, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
- Half a teaspoon of thyme with salt and pepper is added to the pestle.
- Bash the mixture well with a tablespoon of olive oil using mortar until a rough paste is formed.
- Rub the paprika paste all over the cauliflower and transfer it to the baking dish.
- Drizzle over the red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and olive oil, and sprinkle the seasoning on top.
- Pour the slices of tomatoes into the baking dish.
- Pop the baking dish in the oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes until tender.
- Meanwhile, toast half a cup of almonds in a frying pan.
- Scrunch almonds over the roasted cauliflower and our Jamie Oliver Roasted Cauliflower is ready.
Video
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
You can use frozen cauliflower for this recipe. Defrost the cauliflower in the fridge or microwave before cutting it into florets and roasting it. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to account for the fact that the cauliflower is already partially cooked.
Can I roast the cauliflower in a different pan?
Yes! You can roast the cauliflower in a different pan, such as a cast iron skillet or a roasting pan. Make sure the pan is large enough to hold the cauliflower in a single layer, so it roasts evenly.
Can I roast the cauliflower without oil?
Using a non-stick baking sheet or silicone baking mat, you can roast the cauliflower without oil. Place the cauliflower on the baking sheet and roast it as directed in the recipe. Alternatively, you can use a small amount of cooking spray or mist the cauliflower with water to help it roast evenly.
Can I add other vegetables to the tray?
You can add other vegetables to the tray along with the cauliflower. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces so that they roast evenly. Some good options include carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and bell peppers.
Can I roast the cauliflower at a different temperature?
Yes, you can roast the cauliflower at a different temperature if desired. Just be aware that a higher temperature will create a crisper texture, while a lower temperature will result in a softer texture. Adjust the cooking time slightly to achieve the desired level of doneness.
Conclusion
This homemade version of Jamie Oliver’s roasted cauliflower is close to the authentic recipe. We’ve followed the steps in chronological order, as the legendary chef has noted. The result is incredible. You can try this recipe at home with ease.
But before that, look at other Jamie Oliver recipes we’ve covered. You can check Jamie Oliver Mushroom Risotto, Jamie Oliver Apple Crumble, Jamie Oliver Mushroom Pasta, Jamie Oliver Roasted Potatoes, and Jamie Oliver Easy Carbonara.
Let us know in the comment section how much you liked the recipe. So go ahead and give it a try!
