Danish-style Cauliflower Cheese

Ingredients

In this Danish adaptation of Cauliflower Cheese, we incorporate Danish flavors and techniques to give the dish a unique twist. While the British version traditionally uses cheddar cheese, we substitute it with Danish Havarti cheese, known for its creamy and slightly tangy taste. Additionally, we enhance the flavor profile by adding a touch of nutmeg and Dijon mustard to the cheese sauce. These modifications infuse the dish with a distinct Danish flair, elevating it to new heights of deliciousness. We alse have the original recipe for Cauliflower Cheese, so you can check it out.

• 1 large cauliflower, cut into florets 1 large cauliflower, cut into florets
• 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
• 50g (1/4 cup) all-purpose flour 50g (1/4 cup) all-purpose flour
• 500ml (2 cups) whole milk 500ml (2 cups) whole milk
• 200g (7 oz) Danish Havarti cheese, grated 200g (7 oz) Danish Havarti cheese, grated
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 18g, 8g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until they are tender but still slightly firm. Drain and set aside.
3. 3.
   In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
5. 5.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated Havarti cheese until melted and smooth.
6. 6.
   Add the nutmeg, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce, and stir until well combined.
7. 7.
   Place the cauliflower florets in a baking dish and pour the cheese sauce over them, ensuring they are evenly coated.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
9. 9.
   Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cauliflower — Make sure to not overcook the cauliflower during the initial steaming or boiling process to retain a slight crunch in the final dish.
• Danish Havarti cheese — Opt for a high-quality Havarti cheese for the best flavor and melting properties.
• Nutmeg — Use freshly grated nutmeg for a more vibrant and aromatic taste.
• Dijon mustard — Adjust the amount of mustard according to your preference for a subtle or more pronounced tanginess in the cheese sauce.
• Fresh parsley — Finely chop the parsley just before garnishing to preserve its vibrant color and fresh flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a twist, add a handful of crispy bacon bits to the cheese sauce before pouring it over the cauliflower.
• Experiment with different types of Danish cheeses, such as Danbo or Blue Castello, to create unique flavor variations.
• Serve the Danish-style Cauliflower Cheese as a side dish with roasted meats or as a main course with a fresh salad on the side.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and delicious meal.
• Customize the dish by adding sautéed onions or garlic to the cheese sauce for extra flavor complexity.

Serving advice

Serve the Danish-style Cauliflower Cheese hot, straight from the oven, to fully enjoy its creamy and comforting qualities. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Danish-style Cauliflower Cheese in an oven-safe baking dish, allowing the golden and bubbling cheese topping to take center stage. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.