Print

Irresistible Cauliflower Turkey Roast Recipe with Savory Gravy

cauliflower turkey roast - featured image

A plant-based alternative to the traditional turkey roast, this cauliflower ‘turkey’ roast paired with savory gravy is perfect for holidays or hearty meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of cauliflower (leave the stem intact)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for a holiday touch)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or vegan butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (use gluten-free flour if needed)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Remove any outer leaves from the cauliflower but keep the stem intact. Wash the cauliflower and pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel.
  3. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
  4. Place the cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet. Use a pastry brush or your hands to generously coat the entire head with the seasoning mixture, ensuring even coverage.
  5. Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until golden brown and tender when pierced with a knife. Rotate the pan halfway through for even cooking.
  6. While the cauliflower is roasting, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  7. Gradually add the vegetable broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Stir in soy sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, thyme, and salt. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens.
  8. Once the cauliflower is roasted, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice into wedges and serve with warm savory gravy drizzled on top.

Notes

Ensure the cauliflower is completely dry before seasoning for better flavor adhesion. Customize the gravy with cayenne pepper for heat or heavy cream for richness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cauliflower roast, plant-based turkey, vegan holiday recipe, savory gravy, healthy main dish