Cauliflower with Béchamel – Ingredients and Preparation Method

Cauliflower with Béchamel – Ingredients and Preparation Method

Cauliflower with béchamel sauce is a popular dish in many Arab countries, especially in the Levant, where cauliflower is also known as "zahra." This versatile vegetable can be prepared in various ways, such as frying, grilling, or baking.

It’s also highly nutritious, containing a wide range of vitamins and aiding in weight loss.

In this article from Arabi Cook (Arabicook.com), we will share the ingredients and method for making cauliflower with béchamel.

Ingredients for Cauliflower with Béchamel:

For the Cauliflower:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil and butter
• 1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped into florets

For the Filling:

• 500 grams minced meat
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon mixed spices
• ½ teaspoon crushed chili flakes and ground cardamom
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons corn oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 1 cup grated cheese
• 4 cups milk
• ½ cup flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons corn oil and butter

Preparation Method:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Prepare a medium-sized ovenproof dish.

2. Prepare the Cauliflower:

   • Chop the cauliflower into medium-sized florets using a sharp knife.
   • Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the cauliflower and sauté until it turns golden brown.

3. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a medium-sized pot, heat the corn oil over medium heat.
   • Add the minced meat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the water evaporates.
   • Add the chopped onion and sauté until the onion softens, then season with salt, mixed spices, cardamom, crushed chili flakes, and black pepper.
   • Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the meat is fully cooked.

4. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:

   • In a thick-bottomed pot, heat the butter and oil over medium heat.
   • Add the flour and stir continuously until it releases a toasted aroma.
   • Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and cook until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, forming the béchamel sauce.
   • Season with salt.

5. Assemble the Dish:

   • Pour a small amount of the béchamel sauce into the oven dish to cover the base.
   • Add the cooked minced meat and cauliflower florets, spreading them evenly in the dish.
   • Pour the remaining béchamel sauce over the top, then sprinkle with the grated cheese.

6. Bake:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the béchamel sauce and cauliflower develop a golden brown color.
   • Once done, remove from the oven and serve hot.

Enjoy your creamy and delicious cauliflower with béchamel, a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any meal!