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Homemade Yotam ottolenghis cauliflower cake photo

Yotam ottolenghis cauliflower cake

This Cauliflower Cake is a showstopper! Packed with roasted cauliflower and aromatic herbs, it's perfect for brunch or as a stunning side dish.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Brunch, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small cauliflower (outer leaves removed, broken into florets - about 450g or 4 cups)
  • 1 medium red onion (peeled, about 170g or 6 ounces)
  • 75 ml olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped rosemary
  • 7 large free-range eggs
  • 1/2 cup basil leaves (chopped)
  • 120 g all-purpose flour (sifted)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/3 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 150 g coarsely grated Parmesan or other aged cheese
  • Melted unsalted butter (for brushing)
  • 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds
  • 1 teaspoon nigella seeds (also known as black caraway)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Oven-safe baking dish
  • Spatula
  • Brush

Method
 

  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5 minutes until they are tender but still firm. Drain them well in a colander and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the finely chopped rosemary and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs until they are well combined. Add the chopped basil, remaining olive oil, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix until everything is incorporated.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground turmeric, and half of the grated cheese. This will ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Then, fold in the sautéed onions and the cooked cauliflower florets. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the cauliflower pieces intact.
  6. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush your baking dish with melted unsalted butter, ensuring it's well coated. Pour the cauliflower mixture into the prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese evenly over the top. Then, sprinkle the white sesame seeds and nigella seeds for a crunchy texture and additional flavor.
  8. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Once baked, remove the cauliflower cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Notes

  • This Yotam Ottolenghi's cauliflower cake is great for meal prep; it stores well and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Feel free to experiment with different cheeses based on your preference or what you have on hand.
  • For an added depth of flavor, consider roasting the cauliflower florets with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper before incorporating them into the batter.