Description
This Brown Butter and Sage Fluffy Mashed Cauliflower recipe offers a rich, creamy, and flavorful low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. The cauliflower is cooked until tender, pureed with cream cheese for extra creaminess, and topped with nutty brown butter infused with fresh sage for aromatic depth. Perfect as a comforting side dish with a gourmet touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower Mash
- 1 head Cauliflower
- Salt to taste
- 4 tablespoons Cream Cheese
Brown Butter Sage Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Sage, chopped
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
Instructions
- Boil Cauliflower: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Cut the cauliflower into golfball-sized chunks, removing the tough inner stem to ensure even cooking. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water and then carefully add the cauliflower pieces. Cook for 6 to 10 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
- Drain and Dry Cauliflower: Using a clean dishcloth or cheesecloth, carefully transfer the cooked cauliflower in batches and wring out as much moisture as possible. Removing excess water is crucial to achieve a fluffy texture in the mash.
- Puree Cauliflower: Place the drained cauliflower along with the cream cheese in a food processor. Puree the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy. Once pureed, cover the mash to keep it warm and set aside.
- Prepare Brown Butter Sage: Chop the fresh sage finely. In a pan over low to medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the chopped sage.
- Brown the Butter: Continue cooking the butter and sage mixture. The butter will bubble initially and after about 5 minutes will begin to darken and develop brown bits. When the butter has reached the color of light caramel and little dark spots appear, remove the pan from heat to prevent burning.
- Combine and Serve: Pour the fragrant brown butter and sage over the creamy mashed cauliflower. Stir gently to incorporate if desired, and serve immediately as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- Wringing out the cauliflower is essential to prevent watery mash.
- Use fresh sage for the best aromatic flavor; dried sage won’t yield the same result.
- Be careful not to burn the brown butter; watch for the color change closely.
- This dish pairs well with roasted meats or as a vegetarian main when served with grilled veggies.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Mashed Cauliflower, Brown Butter, Sage, Low Carb, Side Dish, Creamy Mash, Healthy Alternatives
