Cauliflower Puree (Gobhi Bharta)

Make mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes! It is guaranteed to be a taste treat and a healthy alternative to the traditional mashed potatoes. It is quite satisfying and the best thing is it is good for you!

For a variation, saute one tablespoon finely chopped ginger (and more green chilies if you like it really spicy) with the onion mixture; then add 1/2 tsp turmeric and 2 finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they are soft before adding the cauliflower. Chopped cilantro is another flavorful addition stirred in just before serving. Serve hot sprinkled with one teaspoon Garam Masala or freshly ground toasted cumin seeds.

Garam Masala is a spice mix which is available in Indian markets.

4 Servings

Ingredients:

1 Cauliflower (about 1 lb), coarsely chopped
1 White or Brown skinned Onion
1 clove Garlic
1 Tbsp Olive Oil/butter
1 tsp Sea Salt
1 green chili, hot or mild
1 small bunch Regular or Garlic Chives
Freshly ground black pepper, to serve
Butter, to serve (optional)

Method:

Chop the onion, garlic and the green chili finely.

Heat the oil/butter in a large pan and cook the onions, garlic and chili with a pinch of salt and until the veggies are tender and translucent; if they dry out, sprinkle a little water as needed.

Add the cauliflower to the pan and stir to coat and cook for a couple of minutes.

Sprinkle a couple of tbsp of water, the rest of the salt and cover and cook stirring occasionally until cauliflower is tender. Let cool for a few minutes.

While the cauliflower is cooking, chop the chives finely - it might be easier to use a pair of kitchen scissors to snip the chives. Set aside.

When cool enough to handle, puree the cauliflower mixture using a food processor.

Check for seasoning, add more salt if needed.

Serve hot garnished with the chives and some butter if desired. Pass the freshly ground black pepper. Enjoy!!