Introducing cauliflower, a vegetable that looks like pure white flowers!

Cauliflower boasts a particularly pure white color among vegetables. Despite its appearance, it is a member of the cabbage family and has its own unique charm. In this article, we will introduce the characteristics of cauliflower, when it is in season, how to choose it, and how to eat it

What is cauliflower? Learn about the differences between it and cabbage

Cauliflower is a pure white cluster of flowers and is known as a member of the cabbage family. Unlike cabbage, its leaves do not roll up, and the edible part is the swollen, bulb-like young flower. It used to be popularly known as "hanarosaisai," but recently consumption has declined due to the rise of proccoli. As its pure white color suggests, cauliflower is a highly valued food ingredient, and when the flower bulb grows large, it is wrapped in leaves to block out sunlight

Cauliflower in season and how to choose it

There are many varieties of cauliflower available in the market all year round, but as it is originally suited to cool climates, it is in season from late autumn to winter. High-quality cauliflower is white, firm, and large, and is particularly valuable. However, if there are any dark spots on the head of the cauliflower, it may be losing its freshness, so be careful. To store it, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in a plastic bag and store it in the refrigerator

Variations in how to eat

Cauliflower is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is delicious in classic dishes such as cream stews, gratins, and potages, as well as Chinese-style stir-fries and soups. It can also be eaten raw, so we recommend using it in salads or pickles. Furthermore, freshly boiled cauliflower is simple yet flavorful, and is delicious even when eaten as is

A rich cauliflower and ham gratin topped with melted cheese

This recipe for a gratin with the exquisite combination of cauliflower and ham, topped with the aroma of melted cheese, is a dish that is easy to enjoy at home thanks to its rich flavor and simple preparation

Ingredients (4 servings, approximately 220kcal/person)

• Cauliflower...1 large
• Loin ham (thinly sliced)...4 slices
• 2 cups milk
• Cheddar cheese (grated)...appropriate amount
• Salt, butter, flour

How to make it

1. Divide the cauliflower into small florets, boil them thoroughly in boiling water with a little salt, and drain in a colander. Cut the roast ham into eight pieces shaped like a chestnut leaf

② Put 2 tablespoons each of butter and flour into a pot, add milk and bring to a boil over high heat. Add 2 teaspoons of salt to season and simmer, stirring with a wooden spoon, until thickened. Then add the cauliflower and roast ham and simmer for about 3 minutes

3. Grease a heat-resistant container with 1 tablespoon of butter, add 2, and sprinkle with cheese. Without covering with plastic wrap, microwave (600W) for 2 minutes and 30 seconds

A refreshingly sour lemon-flavored cauliflower salad

This lemon-flavored salad recipe is a perfect blend of the refreshing flavor of cauliflower and the tartness of lemon. It's easy to enjoy with a dressing that brings out the umami of the cauliflower

Ingredients (4 servings, approximately 180kcal/person)

• 1 cauliflower
• 2 tablespoons raisins
• Lemon (domestic, sliced)...2-8 slices
• Lemon dressing
  • 4 tablespoons vinegar
  • Lemon juice...1 lemon
  • 1 cup salad oil
  • Salt...a little over 1 teaspoon
  • Pepper...a little
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

How to make it

1. Divide the cauliflower into small florets, wash it in water with a little vinegar added, and drain thoroughly. Cut the lemon into chrysanthemum shapes

② Make the lemon dressing. Put the vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl and mix well with a whisk. Add the salad oil little by little and mix well

3. Mix the cauliflower, raisins, and lemon with the dressing from step 2 and let it marinate for half a day to a day, stirring occasionally

4. Once the flavors have blended, serve in a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped parsley to finish

summary

With its pure white flower head and unique flavor, cauliflower is a vegetable that can be enjoyed in a wide variety of dishes. You can maximize its deliciousness by selecting high-quality cauliflower in season and storing it properly. We encourage you to incorporate cauliflower into your daily meals and enjoy new flavors

Introducing our special recipes for epi recipes

Olive oil stewed

By making as thin cuts as possible into the Kariruya eggplant, the juices are soaked in a generous amount of flavor and it's delicious.

Olive oil stewed

By making as thin cuts as possible into the Kariruya eggplant, the juices are soaked in a generous amount of flavor and it's delicious.

Olive oil stewed

By making as thin cuts as possible into the Kariruya eggplant, the juices are soaked in a generous amount of flavor and it's delicious.

Olive oil stewed

By making as thin cuts as possible into the Kariruya eggplant, the juices are soaked in a generous amount of flavor and it's delicious.

Olive oil stewed

By making as thin cuts as possible into the Kariruya eggplant, the juices are soaked in a generous amount of flavor and it's delicious.

Olive oil stewed

By making as thin cuts as possible into the Kariruya eggplant, the juices are soaked in a generous amount of flavor and it's delicious.