Grilled Cauliflower Steaks with Thai-Inspired Sauce

Grilled cauliflower steaks deserve a spot in your regular grilling lineup! This grilled cauliflower steak recipe, featuring a Thai-inspired sauce, brings a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors that will truly elevate the humble cauliflower to gourmet status. Not only are these cauliflower steaks scrumptious, but they're also remarkably easy to prepare, making them perfect for any day of the week.

INGREDIENTS FOR GRILLED CAULIFLOWER STEAK
  • 1 large head cauliflower, outer leaves removed, stem trimmed
  • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 c. freshly chopped cilantro
  • 1 small shallot, finely diced
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp. brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp. fish sauce (or soy sauce)
  • 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
  • Juice and zest of 1 lime
  • 1/4 c. chopped salted peanuts


INSTRUCTIONS FOR GRILLED CAULIFLOWER STEAK

  1. Set your grill to medium heat. Cut 1 steaks from the cauliflower, being sure to include some of the stem. Cover the surface with olive oil then season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Grill cauliflower, covered, for 8 minutes per side. Continue grilling until the cauliflower is charred and tender.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together cilantro, shallot, garlic, brown sugar, fish sauce, red pepper flakes and lime juice and zest.
  4. Once the cauliflower is grilled, place it on a platter. Pour sauce over it, and then sprinkle peanuts on top.


Dips to pair with Grilled Cauliflower Steak
Grilled cauliflower steaks can be paired with a variety of delicious and flavorful dips. Here are some suggestions to enhance your grilled cauliflower steak experience:

  1. Garlic Aioli: Mix vegan or regular mayonnaise with minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a creamy, garlicky dip that complements the charred flavors of the cauliflower
  2. Chimichurri Sauce: Combine fresh parsley, cilantro, oregano, garlic, red pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, and olive oil in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped for a zesty and herbaceous Argentinian sauce.
  3. Lemon Tahini Sauce: Whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, water, salt, and pepper until smooth. This nutty, tangy sauce pairs well with the earthy flavors of grilled cauliflower.
  4. Tzatziki Sauce: Stir together Greek yogurt or a non-dairy alternative, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, dill, and salt for a refreshing and cooling Mediterranean dip.
  5. Romesco Sauce: Blend roasted red peppers, almonds, garlic, tomato paste, smoked paprika, red wine vinegar, and olive oil for a smoky and slightly spicy Spanish-inspired sauce.
  6. Vegan Ranch Dip: Combine vegan mayonnaise, non-dairy milk, apple cider vinegar, onion powder, garlic powder, dill, parsley, and chives for a plant-based version of the classic American dip
  7. Pesto Sauce: Process fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast, olive oil, salt, and pepper for a vibrant and fragrant Italian sauce that adds a burst of flavor to grilled cauliflower steaks.
  8. Harissa Yogurt Sauce: Mix Greek yogurt or a non-dairy alternative with harissa paste, lemon juice, and honey for a spicy and creamy North African-inspired dip.

Feel free to experiment with these dip suggestions or create your own unique combinations to suit your tastes. Pairing grilled cauliflower steaks with a flavorful dip can elevate the dish and add an extra layer of deliciousness to your meal.

Tips for cooking Grilled Cauliflower Steak
Cooking grilled cauliflower steaks can be a breeze with the right tips and techniques. Here are some pointers to help you achieve perfectly cooked cauliflower steaks every time:

  • Choose a large, firm cauliflower: Select a cauliflower with a tight, compact head and crisp leaves. A larger cauliflower will yield more substantial steaks.
  • Cut thick steaks: Slice the cauliflower vertically into 1-inch thick steaks, keeping the core intact. This helps the steaks hold together on the grill and ensures even cooking.
  • Before you cook the cauliflower steaks, turn on your grill and set it to medium-high heat. A well-heated grill will create beautiful grill marks and prevent sticking.
  • Oil the grates and steaks: Lightly brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Additionally, brush both sides of the cauliflower steaks with oil to promote even browning and prevent drying out.
  • Season generously: Don't skimp on seasoning! Sprinkle salt and pepper or your favorite spice blend on both sides of the steaks for maximum flavor.
  • Grill over indirect heat: If possible, cook the cauliflower steaks over indirect heat to ensure they cook evenly without burning. Close the lid to help the steaks cook through.
  • Wait for the steaks to cook. Leave them alone for 5-7 minutes on each side. You will know they are ready when you see grill marks and they feel tender. Resist the urge to flip them too early, as this can cause them to fall apart.
  • Use a wide spatula: When flipping the cauliflower steaks, use a wide spatula to provide adequate support and prevent breakage.
  • Baste with sauce: If using a sauce or glaze, brush it onto the steaks during the last few minutes of grilling. This allows the flavors to meld without burning the sauce.
  • Allow to rest: Let the grilled cauliflower steaks rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes for a more enjoyable eating experience.

By following these tips, you'll be able to create delicious and perfectly cooked grilled cauliflower steaks that are sure to impress your friends and family. Happy grilling!
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