Cauliflower Cream with Torcello
Category: Appetizers
Servings: 1
This rich and creamy cauliflower dish, paired with crispy pancetta and caramelized red onion, is a delightful appetizer to kick off any meal. Perfectly smooth and velvety, the cauliflower cream is elevated by the salty pancetta and the sweet, caramelized onions, making it an unforgettable treat. Here’s how to make it step by step:
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cauliflower | 700g |
| Nutmeg | to taste |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| Fresh liquid cream | 70ml |
| Red Tropea onion | ½ onion |
| Butter | 20g |
| Sugar | 20g |
| Water | 50ml |
| Extra virgin olive oil | to taste |
| La Bottega di Olivia&Marino | 12 pieces |
| Pancetta | 4 slices |
Preparation
-
Prepare the cauliflower:
Begin by washing and cleaning the cauliflower. Cut it into florets and place them in a pot with salted boiling water. Cook for about 10 minutes (or 5 minutes if using a pressure cooker), adding 2 bay leaves for added fragrance. Once the cauliflower is tender, drain it and let it cool. -
Caramelize the onions:
While the cauliflower cools, slice the Tropea onion thinly. Heat a non-stick pan and melt the butter in it. Once the butter is hot, add the sliced onion. Allow it to sauté until it begins to soften, then add the water. Let it absorb for a bit, and then add the sugar. Continue to cook for around 10 minutes, letting the sugar caramelize lightly. Once done, remove the pan from the heat and set the onions aside. -
Crisp the pancetta:
Slice each pancetta strip into small pieces about 1.5 cm wide. Fry them in a pan until they become crispy. Once cooked, remove them from the heat and set them aside. -
Make the cauliflower cream:
Place the cooled cauliflower in a food processor or blender. Season it with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Blend until smooth and creamy. Once blended, add the fresh cream and pulse to combine. -
Assemble the appetizer:
To assemble, spoon the cauliflower cream into 12 small serving glasses or cups. For an elegant touch, you can use a piping bag for easier serving. Top each serving with a piece of crispy pancetta and a dollop of the caramelized onion mixture. -
Serve and enjoy:
Your cauliflower cream with Torcello is now ready to be served! The combination of flavors, textures, and the perfect balance of savory and sweet will surely impress your guests.
This cauliflower cream with crispy pancetta and caramelized onions is a perfect balance of flavors. Enjoy this light yet flavorful appetizer as the perfect beginning to a great meal!
