Cauliflower is making its way into all sorts of dishes! Why? Well, cauliflower is loaded with nutrients, especially as a cruciferous vegetable, making it one of nature’s super foods! Cauliflower is loaded with nutrients, including B vitamins, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and other minerals such as potassium, zinc, magnesium, and phosphorus. Not only nutritious, but cauliflower also helps keep you regular because it is a good source of natural dietary fiber. Cauliflower comes in different colors as well! We know we have seen them in our local grocery stores: white, green, purple, and even orange!
Cauliflower helps prevent oxidative stress due to its high levels of antioxidants and phytochemicals called indoles and glucosinates. They stimulate enzymes that protect the body from oxidative stress. Cauliflower is also great for your blood circulation and helps keep your blood vessels healthy. It has also been shown in studies to have anticancer potential, and helps regulate and maintain electrolyte balance, immune function, skin, and hair growth, as well as provide bone, eye, and respiratory support.
Cauliflower has really taken off as an alternative to other less healthy foods. It can be steamed or roasted and served as a side, mashed into “mashed potatoes”, as a “pizza crust” or as a rice substitute. One of the latest uses for cauliflower is as a vegetarian substitute for chicken wings. I know it sounds weird, but do not knock it until you try it! Here you go…
Buffalo Wing Cauliflower Recipe
What you need:
- 1 cauliflower head, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup flour (we use gluten free)
- 1 tsp each of garlic, onion powder, and cumin
- 2 tsp paprika (we like Hungarian sweet & spicy)
- ½ tsp each of sea salt, pepper, plus a dash of cayenne if you have it
- ¾ cup milk (we use almond, soy, or cashew)
Wing Sauce
- ½ C water
- ¼ C white vinegar
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic
- ¼ tsp cayenne
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
What to do:
Preheat oven to 450. In large bowl combine flour and all seasonings, then add milk and mix well. Add cauliflower and toss to evenly coat. Place on prepared baking sheet (use parchment paper). Bake for 20 minutes, flipping once at halfway point. Meanwhile, mix all sauce ingredients in a small pan and whisk to combine, simmering for 3-5 minutes over medium heat. Remove cauliflower from oven, then brush the pieces with a generous amount of sauce or toss in a bowl. Return to oven for 10-15 more minutes, flipping halfway through. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like Ranch or Bleu Cheese. Bon appetite!