Cauliflower Tofu Focaccia

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Cauliflower

   5 min hands-on

   • Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan).
   • Remove the outer leaves from the cauliflower and set aside.
   • Cut the cauliflower into small, even-sized florets.

2. Season and Roast the Cauliflower

   3 min hands-on15 min waiting

   • Arrange the florets on a baking tray in a single layer.
   • Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika, cumin seeds, salt, and cayenne pepper.
   • Toss to coat and roast for 15 minutes or until tender with golden edges.

3. Prepare the Cauliflower Leaf Slaw

   5 min hands-on

   • Finely chop the reserved cauliflower leaves, discarding tough stems.
   • Combine with chopped fresh parsley in a bowl.
   • Add lemon juice, sesame seeds, olive oil, and salt.
   • Toss thoroughly and set aside.

4. Make the Whipped Tofu Cream

   5 min hands-on

   • Drain the firm tofu and add to a blender.
   • Add lemon juice, yeast extract, garlic, basil, and water.
   • Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting with water if needed.

5. Toast the Focaccia

   4 min hands-on

   • Slice the focaccia into two halves.
   • Heat a dry frying pan over medium-high heat.
   • Brush both sides of the bread with olive oil.
   • Toast for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and crisp.

6. Assemble the Sandwich

   3 min hands-on

   • Spread whipped tofu cream on the bottom half of the focaccia.
   • Layer roasted cauliflower florets on top.
   • Spoon cauliflower leaf slaw over the cauliflower.
   • Sprinkle with extra sesame seeds.
   • Spread yellow mustard on the top half of the focaccia and place on top.
   • Press gently to hold everything together.
   • Cooking tips:
   • To enhance the smoky flavor of the cauliflower, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika alongside the regular paprika.
   • Ensure the whipped tofu is blended thoroughly for a creamy, velvety texture; take your time and scrape the sides of the blender if needed.
   • Toasting the focaccia at medium-high heat helps create a crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and chewy.
   • If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper in the slaw or sprinkle directly on the roasted cauliflower.