Al Pastor Whole Roasted Cauliflower is a great Meatless Monday dish that tastes delicious!

Al Pastor Whole Roasted Cauliflower

We are taking a break.

Just a small one.

This time of year I feel like we are hit with pumpkin recipes left and right. Which is awesome because homegirl loves some pumpkin. BUT! I feel in order to enjoy said pumpkin recipe we’ve got to have something in between. Ya, feel me?

So today’s recipe is a new favorite! I’m not sure how I didn’t come up with this sooner! Raise your hand if you love cauliflower?! Cauliflower has gotten a major overhaul this past year and the ways we can consume this cruciferous vegetable is amazing. Its replaced pasta, traditional rice, pizza crust and steak.

I do love all the options listed above, but I’m a huge fan of the whole cauliflower. I remember as a kid my grandmother roasting a whole cauliflower and at the time it looked liked an alien life form. Rather than getting the stink-eye from my grandmother for not at least tempting to take a bite, I sliced off a half and managed to consume my entire portion. It was surprisingly tender and delicious! I’ve been a fan ever since.

Al Pastor Whole Roasted Cauliflower

So, this Al Pastor Whole Roasted Cauliflower is a homage to my childhood past. I’m combing Meatless Monday, Taco Tuesday and my affection for whole cauliflower in this recipe. The al pastor sauce is the original gangster. Made with chiles, pineapple chunks, and more spices. Blend away and then pour the sauce over the whole cauliflower. Roast and then enjoy as slices or in a taco. Make sure to go crazy on the toppings!

Okay, we are back to our regular scheduled program.

Al Pastor Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Al Pastor Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Yield: 2 Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Al Pastor Whole Roasted Cauliflower is a great Meatless Monday dish that tastes delicious!
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Ingredients

  • 3 garlic cloves, chopped
  • 2 tbsp salt-free chili powder
  • 2 tsp ground paprika
  • 2 chipotle peppers adobo + more if you want it spicier
  • ½ cup pineapple juice
  • ¼ cup white vinegar
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 large head cauliflower
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • Pico de gallo, for garnish
  • Sour cream, for garnish

Instructions 

  • Preheat an oven to 400 degrees. Line a the bottom of a Dutch oven with parchment paper.
  • Next, remove the leaves and stem from the cauliflower so it sits flat. Place it on a baking sheet.
  • In a blender or food processor combine garlic, chili powder, paprika, chipotle peppers, pineapple juice, vinegar, pineapple chunks, salt and pepper. Blend the mixture until smooth.
  • Using a pastry brush take the al pastor sauce and brush it all over the cauliflower. Reserve at least at least 1/3 cup for basting later.
  • Place the cauliflower on top of the parchment paper in the Dutch oven. Pour 1/4 cup of water into the bottom of the Dutch oven and cover with a lid. Roast the cauliflower covered for about 45 minutes.
  • Remove the lid and brush the cauliflower with remaining sauce. Continue to cook the cauliflower uncovered for another 45 minutes to an hour. Once cooked, remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Serve with garnishes.
Author: Lauren Grier
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Did you make this recipe?Please leave a comment below and share a photo on Instagram with the hashtag #thecuriousplate!
Al Pastor Whole Roasted Cauliflower

In conclusion, our Al Pastor Roasted Cauliflower offers a tantalizing fusion of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. With its perfection in roasting, it guarantees a memorable and satisfying dining experience. Enjoy this culinary adventure!