Name: Whole Slow-Cooked Cauliflower Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 3 h 50 min
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 1 head cauliflower (whole, intact); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika (smoked if available); 1/4 cup vegetable broth (or water + a pinch of salt); Chopped parsley or any green garnish

Description

This Whole Slow-Cooked Cauliflower recipe offers a simple, nutritious, and flavorful way to prepare an entire cauliflower head using slow cooking. Infused with garlic, paprika, and olive oil, the cauliflower turns tender and juicy, perfect for a comforting vegetarian main or side dish. The optional broiling step adds a delightful roasted finish, enhancing texture and taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Cauliflower

1 head cauliflower (whole, intact)

Seasoning Mix

2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika (smoked if available)

Cooking Liquid

1/4 cup vegetable broth (or water + a pinch of salt)

Garnish (optional)

Chopped parsley or any green garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the cauliflower: Remove large outer leaves from the cauliflower. Trim the stem just enough so the head sits flat in the slow cooker, ensuring stable placement.
Make the seasoning rub: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Rub this mixture evenly all over the cauliflower, making sure to get into all the crevices for full flavor.
Set up slow cooker: Pour the vegetable broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. Gently place the cauliflower head inside with the core side down. Cover with the lid securely.
Slow cook the cauliflower: Cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours, or about 2.5 hours if using a smaller cauliflower, until the vegetable is fork-tender and fully cooked through.
Optional broil for finish: For a roasted, golden exterior, transfer the slow-cooked cauliflower to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3 to 4 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley or your favorite green garnish over the cauliflower. Slice into wedges and serve warm.

Notes

Use smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor, but regular paprika works well too.
Broiling at the end is optional but adds a beautiful roasted color and texture.
You can substitute vegetable broth with water and a pinch of salt if preferred.
Ensure the cauliflower sits flat in the slow cooker to cook evenly.
Adjust cooking time based on the size of the cauliflower to avoid overcooking or undercooking.