Cauliflower "Popcorn"

The delightful crunch and taste of "cauliflower popcorn" can be enjoyed  as an intriguing side dish or as an awesome evening snack. Cauliflower is composed of tiny  bunches of florets on multi-branched stalks.With the exception of a little prep work to separate the head into pieces, the recipe is quick and easy to make. Roasted until tender and slightly caramelized, this cauliflower's savory flavour compliments any meal. When the dish is oven-baked until crisp and well-done, it's a different, but delicious 'finger food'. We've enjoyed it instead of regular popcorn on 'home movie night'. Cauliflower popcorn is rich in nutrients, especially Vitamins A and C, and is an excellent source of iron, potassium, and zinc. Try this new way to eat a familiar but always interesting vegetable!

You'll Need: 1 large cauliflower; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ; 1/4 additional sea salt (optional).

Method: Break cauliflower florets into small bite-size pieces to resemble popcorn. Place in a large bowl. You can use a small knife to separate the cauliflower, but clean fingers are much faster.

Whisk olive oil, salt, pepper and turmeric together. For flavoured popcorn, add 1 teaspoon of your favorite herbs or spices such as Italian blend seasoning, ground cumin and coriander, curry powder, etc.

Pour olive oil mixture over cauliflower pieces, and mix until florets are thoroughly coated with marinade. (Impeccably clean hands are usually the best 'kitchen tool' for doing this task)

When cauliflower is evenly coated with olive oil mixture, spread on a baking sheet. Roast in a hot oven at 425 degrees for 40 - 60 minutes until done. Using an oven-proof spatula, turn the cauliflower pieces several times while roasting.

For a side dish, bake for 30 - 40 minutes until tender and glossy and cauliflower is just beginning to caramelize. Sprinkle with a little salt and black pepper, and serve hot or cold.

For "cauliflower popcorn" snack food, roast for 50 - 60 minutes or until cauliflower is well-caramelized, slightly browned and crisp. Sprinkle with a little additional sea salt and black pepper. Eat when cool enough to handle with your fingers, or let cool completely. Enjoy!

Thinking about what you think about in the kitchen? Check out zen-cuisine a blog about mindful cooking!