Recipes

Baked Cauliflower and Mushroom Pilaf

Written by: Josh Emett | Published on: June 8, 2023

Joaquin Delacey

Serves 4 |

“I make these baked rice pilafs regularly at home, and everyone in the family loves it. This one is vegetarian, but we sometimes add chicken, minced lamb, or shrimp. The fragrant, aromatic steamed rice with coconut milk and stock is cooked on low heat, allowing the flavors to gently infuse. My favorite part of the dish is the edge of the pan, where the rice forms a slight crust. I love adding nuts and fried onions for texture and extra flavor.”

Tip

This easily adaptable dish is great for using up any slightly wilted produce.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons coconut oil

1 cup sliced mushrooms

1⁄2 head cauliflower, cut into small florets

1 onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 thumb-size piece ginger, finely grated

1⁄4 cup chopped raw cashew nuts

2 tablespoons curry powder

1 tablespoon garam masala

1 tablespoon turmeric

salt and pepper to taste

1 cup basmati rice or similar

1 cup boiling water

1 cup coconut milk

fried onions for garnish (optional; see below)

FOR THE FRIED ONIONS:

1 cup light olive oil

1 large onion, thinly and evenly sliced

1⁄2 cup rice flour

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cauliflower to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, until they start to brown.

3. Now add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the cashew nuts and stir in.

4. Add in the curry powder, garam masala, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Then add the rice and stir in and coat well.

5. Pour in the boiling water and coconut milk and bring to a boil. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Place a lid on the skillet, then put into the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.

7. Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Top with the fried onions (see below) before serving, if desired.

To make the fried onions:

1. Heat the oil in a small pan until it reaches 320°F (160°C).

2. Dust the sliced onions in the rice flour, then shake off the excess through a colander.

3. Fry the onions until golden brown, stirring often so they color evenly. This usually takes 4 to 5 minutes.

4. Remove and drain over paper towels.