Smoky Maple Glazed Cauliflower Steaks with Tahini Dressing

If you're looking for a vegan dish that's both hearty and full of flavor, this Smoky Maple Glazed Cauliflower Steak recipe is sure to impress. Cauliflower steaks are thick slices of cauliflower roasted to perfection, offering a satisfying texture and a blank canvas for bold flavors. The smoky maple glaze gives these steaks a rich, caramelized finish, while the creamy tahini dressing adds a savory balance. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect main course for any plant-based meal.

Ingredients:

For the Cauliflower Steaks:

• 1 large head of cauliflower
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Tahini Dressing:

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cauliflower Steaks:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Remove the leaves from the cauliflower and trim the stem, keeping the core intact.
   • Slice the cauliflower vertically into 1-inch thick steaks. Depending on the size of the cauliflower, you should get 2-3 steaks from the center; reserve any remaining florets for another use.
   • In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
   • Brush both sides of each cauliflower steak with the smoky maple glaze, ensuring an even coat.

2. Roast the Cauliflower:

   • Place the cauliflower steaks on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden and caramelized and the cauliflower is tender.

3. Make the Tahini Dressing:

   • While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the tahini dressing.
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, nutritional yeast, minced garlic, and salt.
   • Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. It should be smooth and pourable but not too thin.

4. Serve:

   • Once the cauliflower steaks are done roasting, remove them from the oven.
   • Plate the steaks and drizzle generously with the tahini dressing.
   • Serve with a side of quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

These Smoky Maple Glazed Cauliflower Steaks with Tahini Dressing are a delightful mix of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. The tender cauliflower pairs beautifully with the creamy tahini sauce, creating a dish that's as satisfying as it is nutritious. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will be a hit with vegans and non-vegans alike.