FOOD NEWS
13 Ingredients To Boost The Creaminess Of Cauliflower Mash
BY SUZANNAH KOLBECK
Cream Cheese
The slight tang and rich texture of cream cheese can make your mashed cauliflower smooth and luscious. The higher the fat content, the more indulgent your mash.
Use 1/4 cup of cream cheese per medium cauliflower head. Mix it with milk and butter in a food processor, add cooked cauliflower, and blend again before adding salt and pepper.
Heavy Cream
The extra fat in heavy cream coats the palate and covers up the more earthy flavors, making it an ideal addition for those who don't love the taste of cauliflower.
If you want to indulge without going overboard, choose heavy whipping cream instead, although the subtle difference in fat content may not be noticeable.
Butter
Butter adds richness to mashed cauliflower. Use European-style butter for a smoother texture and enhanced flavor, or regular supermarket butter for a more affordable option.
If cooked too long, the milk solids in butter will separate and get greasy, so soften the butter to room temperature and blend with the other ingredients before adding cauliflower.
Sour Cream
Sour cream enhances mashed cauliflower's flavor and texture with its tartness. Pick a full-fat version of sour cream to steer clear of unnecessary additives.
Instead of using all sour cream, which might taste overwhelming, mix it with a splash of milk or heavy cream, and blend with butter and pepper before adding the cooked cauliflower.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese adds nutty flavor and helps thicken mashed cauliflower. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best results, as pre-grated versions may contain additives.
Aim for about half a cup per large cauliflower head, adjusting to taste but being mindful of its saltiness. Be sure to add salt last and taste as you go to prevent oversalting.