This simple, steamed cauliflower recipe is so simple and adaptable. It pairs alongside so many protein + starchy side combos!
If you’re anything like me (Brandi), you may be thinking, “Steamed cauliflower? Do I have to?” (Or maybe that’s not your thought process at all, because you did, after all, find your way to this steamed cauliflower recipe …and probably not by chance.) EITHER WAY, I’m here to tell you that steamed cauliflower CAN be really delicious. It can be steamed just enough to be cooked but also hold onto some of its texture (read: it is possible to make not mushy steamed cauliflower). So, if you’re ready to up your weeknight dinner game and add a recipe to your list of go-to easy veggie sides, let’s get to it!
Steamed cauliflower is cooked in either the microwave, Instant Pot, or in a pot on the stove (vs. in the oven like roasted cauliflower) and tends to be softer in texture and lacks the crispy texture that roasted cauliflower boasts.
While roasted cauliflower recipes typically call for cauliflower + EVOO (again, to help achieve that crispy finish), steamed cauliflower recipes call for only cauliflower and water.
The only ingredient you’ll need here is cauliflower (1 head to be exact)…and water (but is water even an ingredient?)
Whether you buy your cauliflower prechopped into florets or as a whole head, you’ll want them chopped before steaming. While you *can* steam a whole head of cauliflower, chopping it into florets ahead of cooking allows for the entirety of the cauliflower to soften much quicker and more evenly.
This steamed cauliflower recipe is truly just about as simple as it gets. If you’re looking to jazz it up, go for it!
If you bought a head of cauliflower, you’ll need to chop it into florets before steaming it. To do this, simply…
It’s best to steam vegetables. If you have a pot that is large enough to steam whole cauliflower or cut up in small pieces. If you boil in water. You will waste vitamins, and flavor.
How to Steam Cauliflower in the Instant Pot
- Add water – add ¾ cup of water to the Instant Pot, then place a steamer insert in the pot.
- Add cauliflower – put the cauliflower florets in the steamer.
- Seal, cook, and release – seal the pot, then set to cook for 0 minutes (any actual length of time will create a really mushy end product!) on high pressure. As soon as the timer goes off, release the pressure and remove the lid.
How to Steam Cauliflower Without a Steamer
If you’re looking for a method that requires NO steamer basket, microwaving your cauliflower is your best bet. This method requires just a large microwave-safe bowl and plastic wrap.
Because it’s a quick and easy veggie, I’ll also add it to one of our Asian-inspired dinners (think: orange chicken, bourbon chicken, or General Tso’s chicken) to up the veggie content.
How to Steam Cauliflower
FAQ
Is cauliflower better steamed or boiled?
How long does it take to steam cauliflower?
Does steaming cauliflower remove nutrients?
How long does it take to boil cauliflower?
Is it better to boil or steam cauliflower?
Steaming or boiling just until the cauliflower becomes tender results in the best texture and flavor, whether you serve cauliflower on its own or add it to other foods. Steaming does a slightly better job of retaining nutrients, some of which are eliminated with the boiling method.
What is the best way to eat cauliflower?
The best way to eat cauliflower is to eat it the way you like it so that it becomes a part of the regular diet. There are many ways to eat and prepare cauliflower including; raw, riced, boiled, steamed, or roasted. Roasting cauliflower brings out the most flavor this cruciferous vegetable has to offer. It can be used in soups, stews, and casseroles. Boiling cauliflower and mashing it with potatoes to make a mashed potato and cauliflower side dish or using riced cauliflower in a tabbouleh are just a few other ways to eat cauliflower. Cauliflower can cause gas and bloating or general digestive discomfort, especially in individuals who are just beginning to eat high-fiber cruciferous vegetables. Eating cooked rather than raw cauliflower can reduce these digestive side effects. Consuming one-half teaspoon of fennel seeds(toasted, raw, or candied) after a meal can also help reduce gas or bloating.
What to do with steamed cauliflower?
What’s great about steamed cauliflower is that it’s the perfect blank canvas to build on different flavors. To add extra flavor to your cauliflower, sprinkle on some aromatic and tasty herbs and spices to your florets.
Is steamed cauliflower making a comeback?
And fresh, steamed cauliflower is definitely due for a comeback. With the proper time, technique, and, of course, seasonings, steaming cauliflower makes for a delectable, yet super simple, vegetable side dish. It’s also perfect for transforming cauliflower florets into an array of flavorful soups, mashes, and dips! How Long to Steam Cauliflower?