James Martin’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

James Martin’s Cauliflower Cheese is a modern take on the classic British side dish, offering a deliciously creamy and indulgent way to enjoy cauliflower. Known for its simplicity and comfort, cauliflower cheese is a favorite at family dinners, especially during the colder months or festive occasions. James Martin, a renowned British chef, elevates this dish by blending rich, creamy cheese sauce with perfectly cooked cauliflower, creating a smooth, velvety texture that pairs perfectly with the natural taste of cauliflower.

The beauty of this dish lies not only in its taste but in its versatility. You can serve it as a side dish to meats, such as roast chicken or lamb, or even enjoy it as a vegetarian main dish.

James Martin’s recipe uses a combination of cheeses, such as cheddar and Parmesan, adding depth and umami to the flavor profile. Additionally, it’s a great dish for those who want to incorporate more vegetables into their meals without sacrificing flavor or enjoyment.

James Martin’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To recreate James Martin’s Cauliflower Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 large cauliflower – Choose a fresh cauliflower with tightly packed florets.
• Butter – You’ll need around 50g to create a smooth roux (thickening agent for the sauce).
• Plain flour – 50g, to combine with the butter and make the roux.
• Milk – 500ml of full-fat milk will give the sauce a rich, creamy consistency.
• Cheddar cheese – 200g of mature cheddar cheese, grated. This cheese provides the bold, creamy flavor that cauliflower cheese is known for.
• Parmesan cheese – 50g of grated Parmesan for a bit of sharpness and a rich, salty kick.
• Mustard powder – A small pinch to add a little zing to the cheese sauce (optional).
• Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning the dish.
• Breadcrumbs – A handful of fresh breadcrumbs to create a crisp, golden topping (optional but highly recommended for added texture).
• A sprinkle of fresh herbs – Parsley or thyme can be used to garnish and add color (optional).

Equipment Needed

To make James Martin’s Cauliflower Cheese, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Large saucepan – For cooking the cauliflower and preparing the cheese sauce.
• Medium-sized saucepan – To make the roux and cheese sauce.
• Colander – For draining the cooked cauliflower.
• Ovenproof dish – To assemble and bake the cauliflower cheese.
• Grater – For grating the cheese and any optional garnishes.
• Whisk – For smoothing out the roux and ensuring the sauce is lump-free.
• Cooking spoon or spatula – For stirring the sauce and cauliflower.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make James Martin’s Cauliflower Cheese

1. Prepare the Cauliflower:
   Begin by removing the leaves and cutting the cauliflower into small florets. You can also break the cauliflower into large chunks if you prefer a more rustic texture.

2. Cook the Cauliflower:
   Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the florets are tender. Drain the cauliflower using a colander and set it aside to allow any excess water to drain off.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir continuously to make a roux. Cook the roux for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, but don’t let it brown.

   Gradually add the milk to the roux while whisking constantly to create a smooth, lump-free sauce. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened to a creamy consistency.

4. Add the Cheese:
   Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Add mustard powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy.

5. Assemble the Dish:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the cooked cauliflower florets into an ovenproof dish. Pour the cheesy sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring all the florets are well-coated.

6. Add the Topping:
   For an extra crispy topping, sprinkle fresh breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese sauce. You can also add a little extra grated cheese on top if desired.

7. Bake the Cauliflower Cheese:
   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. If you like a more crisp topping, you can broil it for a few minutes at the end.

8. Serve:
   Once the cauliflower cheese is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like, and enjoy!

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Choosing the Right Cauliflower: Select a cauliflower that is firm, white, and free of brown spots. The fresher the cauliflower, the better the dish will taste.
• Perfect Cheese Sauce: If you prefer a super-smooth cheese sauce, you can pass the sauce through a fine sieve after melting the cheese to ensure no lumps remain.
• Adding Depth of Flavor: For a more intense flavor, you can add a dash of Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of nutmeg, or even some grated garlic to the cheese sauce.
• Texture Variations: If you like a bit of crunch, you can add some finely chopped bacon or pancetta to the sauce or sprinkle it over the top before baking.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the cauliflower and cheese sauce in advance. Simply assemble the dish and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This will save you time when you’re ready to serve.
• Alternative Cheeses: For variety, try swapping out the cheddar for Gruyère, fontina, or a sharp blue cheese. Experiment with combinations to suit your taste.

James Martin’s Cauliflower Cheese is a rich and creamy comfort food that effortlessly combines the humble cauliflower with the indulgence of melted cheese. It’s a dish that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even as a comforting side to your favorite main course.

With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, you can easily master this recipe and even add your own twist to make it your own. Whether you choose to make it ahead of time or enjoy it fresh from the oven, this cauliflower cheese will become a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Simple Twists On James Martin’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe

James Martin’s classic cauliflower cheese recipe is a timeless favorite, perfect for cozy dinners or as a hearty side dish. However, there are numerous simple twists you can apply to elevate or personalize the dish. Let’s explore a few creative variations!

1. Add Crispy Bacon Or Pancetta

For an added depth of flavor and texture, crispy bacon or pancetta works wonders in cauliflower cheese. You can either crumble it into the cheese sauce or sprinkle it on top before baking. The saltiness and crunch of the bacon perfectly complement the creamy sauce and tender cauliflower, creating a delicious contrast.

2. Incorporate Mustard

A dollop of Dijon or wholegrain mustard in the cheese sauce can bring a tangy and spicy twist to the dish. The mustard’s sharpness cuts through the richness of the cheese, adding complexity and enhancing the flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also experiment with a bit of English mustard for an extra kick!

3. Add Garlic And Herbs

Sautéing some garlic and fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley in butter before adding to the cheese sauce infuses the dish with aromatic flavors. You could also sprinkle a few fresh herbs on top just before serving to enhance the fragrance and visual appeal of your cauliflower cheese.

4. Go For Different Cheeses

While James Martin’s recipe often uses cheddar, you can mix things up by combining other types of cheese. Gruyère, mozzarella, or a sharp blue cheese like Stilton will introduce a new layer of flavor. You can also experiment with creamy cheeses like mascarpone or cream cheese for an ultra-luxurious, silky sauce.

5. Top With A Crispy Breadcrumb Crust

For added texture and flavor, sprinkle a generous layer of breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and a little grated cheese on top of the cauliflower cheese before baking. The breadcrumbs will turn golden and crispy, providing an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

6. Spicy Kick With Chilli

If you enjoy some heat in your meals, a finely chopped red chilli or a pinch of cayenne pepper can introduce a wonderful spicy undertone to the cauliflower cheese. It pairs surprisingly well with the richness of the cheese sauce and adds an unexpected zing.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Cauliflower cheese is such a delicious comfort food that leftovers are bound to happen. Storing them properly ensures you can enjoy them later without sacrificing flavor or texture. Here’s how to do it:

1. Cool Before Storing

Allow the cauliflower cheese to cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the dish soggy.

2. Use An Airtight Container

Place the cooled cauliflower cheese in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and prevents it from absorbing any odors from other foods in the fridge.

3. Refrigerating Leftovers

You can store cauliflower cheese in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to consume it within this period to avoid any risk of spoilage.

4. Freezing Leftovers

If you want to keep the dish for longer, cauliflower cheese freezes very well. To freeze, transfer it into a freezer-safe container and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil.

It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating from frozen, it’s best to defrost it overnight in the fridge and then bake it in the oven to get that crispy top.

5. Reheating Leftovers

To reheat cauliflower cheese, place it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes or until it’s piping hot and the top is golden. If you’re in a rush, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, but the oven method gives a better result, especially if you want to maintain the crispy topping.

What To Eat With James Martin’s Cauliflower Cheese?

While cauliflower cheese is often a satisfying dish on its own, it can also be paired beautifully with a variety of other foods. Here are some suggestions to round out your meal:

1. Roast Meat

Cauliflower cheese is an excellent accompaniment to roast meats. It pairs particularly well with roast chicken, beef, lamb, or pork. The richness of the cheese and the tender cauliflower complements the savory flavors of the meat, making it a perfect side dish for a Sunday roast or festive dinner.

2. Grilled Or Pan-Fried Fish

If you’re looking for a lighter pairing, cauliflower cheese goes surprisingly well with grilled or pan-fried fish. A crisp piece of white fish like cod, haddock, or even salmon balances the creaminess of the dish without overwhelming your palate.

3. Green Vegetables

Serve cauliflower cheese with a side of leafy greens, such as sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli, or roasted Brussels sprouts. The freshness of the vegetables adds a touch of brightness to the rich, cheesy dish, helping to balance the flavors.

4. A Fresh Salad

To contrast the creamy texture of cauliflower cheese, serve it alongside a fresh salad. A tangy, citrusy salad with mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing will add lightness and acidity to cut through the richness.

5. Crispy Roast Potatoes

For a comforting, hearty meal, pair cauliflower cheese with crispy roast potatoes. The crispy, golden exterior of the potatoes and their fluffy interior are a wonderful textural contrast to the creamy cauliflower cheese.

Conclusion

James Martin’s cauliflower cheese is a comforting and versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your preferences. From adding crispy bacon to experimenting with different cheeses, there are endless possibilities to make it your own.

When it comes to leftovers, proper storage is key to maintaining their quality, whether you’re refrigerating or freezing. Pair cauliflower cheese with meats, fish, vegetables, or even a salad, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal that will satisfy both the stomach and the taste buds. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or reimagining it the next day, cauliflower cheese remains a crowd-pleaser in any variation.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In James Martin’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe?

James Martin’s cauliflower cheese recipe features a creamy and cheesy sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and a mix of cheddar and Parmesan cheese. The dish also includes cauliflower, which is cooked until tender and then smothered in the rich cheese sauce, before being baked until golden and bubbling.

Can I Make James Martin’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make James Martin’s cauliflower cheese ahead of time. After preparing the cauliflower and cheese sauce, assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it in the oven, though you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s been stored in the fridge.

How Can I Make James Martin’s Cauliflower Cheese Recipe Healthier?

To make James Martin’s cauliflower cheese recipe healthier, you can substitute the whole milk with a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cheese, or opt for a cheese alternative. Additionally, you could swap the butter for a healthier fat, such as olive oil, and consider using whole wheat flour in the sauce for extra fiber.