This whole roasted cauliflower with smoked paprika and hazelnut dukkah makes for a breathtaking centrepiece at your Christmas feast. This dish is beautifully spiced, golden, and fragrant. The subtle smokiness, nutty texture, and vibrant hue create a cosy holiday vibe. It’s delicious and perfect for enjoying with friends and family.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
For the cauliflower:
1 whole medium Cauliflower
1 tablespoonTurmeric
2 tablespoonsKosher salt
3 tablespoonsOlive oil
1 tablespoonSmoked paprika
For the dukkah:
⅓ cupSesame seeds
2 tablespoonsCoriander seeds
1 tablespoonCumin seeds
1 teaspoonFennel seeds
½ cupHazelnuts (toasted)
1 teaspoonBlack pepper (ground)
1 teaspoonSea salt (coarse)
Follow
Directions
Description - Step 1
Prep the cauliflower
Trim most of the leaves and level the stem so the cauliflower stands upright.
Rinse the cauliflower thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt between the florets.
Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel so the seasoning will adhere well later.
Check for any browned spots and shave them off.
Description - Step 2
Parboil for tenderness
Bring 2 quarts of water to a boil.
Stir in turmeric and kosher salt, then lower the cauliflower, stem-side down.
Boil 5 to 7 minutes until fork-tender.
Drain and cool for about 10 minutes.
Description - Step 3
Season and coat
Rub the cauliflower all over with olive oil and smoked paprika.
This gives a rich colour and smoky depth during roasting.
Description - Step 4
Roast to golden perfection
Place the cauliflower on a baking tray lined with baking parchment.
Roast in a preheated oven at 200°C until the top turns a deep golden colour and the edges crisp slightly.
Remove from the oven once it looks bronzed and smells warm and fragrant.
Description - Step 5
Prepare the dukkah
Toast sesame, coriander, cumin, and fennel seeds in a dry pan until fragrant.
Transfer to a grinder along with hazelnuts, pepper, and salt.
Pulse briefly to achieve a coarse, crunchy blend.
Description - Step 6
Finish and serve
Set the cauliflower on a platter and shower it generously with the dukkah.