Delightful Cauliflower Mornay Crepes: A Comforting Culinary Adventure
Description:
Oh so good! This recipe, a nostalgic favorite from the classic “Crepe Cookery” published in 1976, has delighted many families over the years. Surprisingly, even the pickiest of eaters—like my kids when they were little—have embraced these cheesy, savory crepes filled with a delicious cauliflower Mornay sauce. Perfect for lunch or a snack, these crepes are an indulgent treat that combines the goodness of vegetables with the elegance of French cuisine.
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Cauliflower | 1 head |
Butter | 3 tablespoons |
Flour | 3 tablespoons |
Milk | ½ cup |
Salt | ½ teaspoon |
Butter (for topping) | ½ tablespoon |
Parmesan cheese | 8 tablespoons |
Bread crumbs | ½ cup |
Additional butter | 1 tablespoon |
Cream | ¼ cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 259.6 |
Total Fat | 20.5 g |
Saturated Fat | 12.8 g |
Cholesterol | 60.1 mg |
Sodium | 553.3 mg |
Carbohydrates | 13.6 g |
Dietary Fiber | 1.9 g |
Sugars | 2 g |
Protein | 6.7 g |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a comfortable 350 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing it to reach the perfect temperature for baking your crepes to golden perfection.
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Prepare the Cauliflower: Take the head of cauliflower and cut it into florets. In a steamer, steam the cauliflower until it becomes tender, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Once tender, drain the cauliflower thoroughly to remove any excess moisture, as this will help maintain the integrity of your crepes.
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Make the Roux: In a medium-sized saucepan over low heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add 3 tablespoons of flour to the pan, whisking vigorously until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. This combination is known as a roux, which will serve as the base for your creamy sauce.
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Create the Sauce: Gradually add ¼ cup of cream, followed by ½ cup of milk and ½ teaspoon of salt to the roux, continuing to stir. Cook this mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens to a velvety consistency. This creamy sauce is the heart of the Mornay flavor profile, and it should envelop the cauliflower beautifully.
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Combine Cauliflower and Sauce: Gently fold the steamed cauliflower into the creamy sauce, ensuring that each piece is coated evenly. The warm sauce will help to meld the flavors together, making each bite a delightful experience.
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Fill the Crepes: Take your prepared crepes and fill each one generously with the cauliflower Mornay mixture. Once filled, carefully fold the crepes in half and place them in a shallow baking pan, arranging them snugly side by side.
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Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and mix it with the bread crumbs and 8 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese. This topping will add a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor to your crepes.
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Assemble for Baking: Sprinkle the breadcrumb and cheese mixture generously over the filled crepes in the baking pan, ensuring even coverage so that every bite is packed with flavor.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and cook for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, while the crepes are heated through.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the crepes from the oven and let them cool for a moment before serving. Plate them beautifully, perhaps with a light salad on the side, and prepare to indulge in a comforting, cheesy delight that’s perfect for lunch or a delightful snack.
Conclusion
These delightful Cauliflower Mornay Crepes are not just a meal; they are a reminder of the joy of cooking for family and the delight of introducing vegetables in a way that everyone will love. Perfect for brunch or a cozy lunch, this recipe brings comfort and satisfaction with each bite. Enjoy the wonderful fusion of flavors and the heartwarming experience of sharing this dish with those you love.
Keywords: Cauliflower, Vegetable, European, Brunch, < 60 Mins