CREAMY CAULIFLOWER GRATIN

CREAMY CAULIFLOWER GRATIN image

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 large head cauliflower, cut into 1-inch florets
1 Tbs. salt, plus more, to taste
2 cups milk
2 Tbs. unsalted butter
2 Tbs. all-purpose flour
1 tsp. dry mustard
1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Gouda cheese
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pinch of cayenne pepper
3 Tbs. dried bread crumbs

Steps:

Cook the cauliflower Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add the cauliflower and 1 Tbs. salt. Cook until the florets are tender, about 7 minutes. Drain well. Make the sauce In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until small bubbles begin to form around the edge of the pan. Remove from the heat. In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and mustard a little at a time, whisking to incorporate. Increase the heat to medium-low and gradually whisk in the hot milk. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture is thick and creamy, about 5 minutes. Add the cheddar and Gouda cheeses, and season with salt, black pepper and cayenne. Cook, stirring frequently, until the cheeses are melted, about 2 minutes. Finish the gratin Preheat a broiler. Butter a shallow 2-quart gratin or baking dish. Arrange the cauliflower in the dish, pour the sauce over it and sprinkle with the bread crumbs. Broil until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Serve immediately. Serves 4.