Mustardy Cauliflower Gratin

This is the next level in comfort food.    

Depending on the occasion I make this hearty bake as a main dish or side to a main course of proteins. It’s perfect to make for a large gathering or a small intimate party. I like it because its a special occasion dish with very winter comforting warmth to it, satisfies my cravings of something cheesy but not so ladened with carbs. In other words think Mac and Cheese for a keto diet. Really this will totally satisfy those cravings!.

This dish can be made as part of a weekly meal prep and baked before eating. Also all the dairy in the recipe can be substituted with dairy free milk and cheese for vegan or lactose free diets. 

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Ingredients 

• 2 lbs Cauliflower, white or mixed colored broken into florets (about 4-5 cups)
• 2 Tbsps Regular or vegan Butter 
• 1 medium shallot or onion thinly sliced
• 1 Tbsp ground whole Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp Pepper
• 3/4 cup grated Cheese I like combination of(extra sharp Cheddar, gruyere and Parmesan) or choose dairy free
• 1 heaped Tbsp all purpose or chickpea flour for gluten free
• 2 Cups unflavored, unsweetened plant milk, I like oat/ macadamia or your choice of plant milk or 2% regular Milk 
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream or coconut cream
• Sea salt to Taste
• 2-3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon curry powder (optional)

Instructions

1. Turn the oven to 375 degrees F and bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.  Add the cauliflower (once boiling) and cook until it just begins to become tender, about 3-5 minutes.  Drain well.
2. While the cauliflower cooks, melt the butter in a medium pan over medium/high heat.  Once melted, add the onions and garlic, cook till fragrant, stirring constantly. Add the flour and stir for a minute. 
3. Whisk in the milk, mustard, curry powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and bring to a boil. Once boiling reduce the heat to simmer, stirring occasionally, until thick, about 7-8 minutes.
4. Remove the milk mixture from the heat and whisk in 1/2 cup of the cheese and cream if using until smooth.
5. Spread 1/3 of the sauce on the bottom of a gratin or regular 8 inch pan.  Pack the cauliflower into the pan on top and then spoon the rest of the sauce over top.  Sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
6. Bake until golden brown and bubbly, about 25-30 minutes. OPTIONAL: broil for 2-3 minutes until golden.