Cauliflower Recipe Vegan Instant Pot: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Cauliflower is one of those versatile vegetables that can shine in countless dishes, especially when cooked to tender perfection in an Instant Pot. For those embracing a vegan lifestyle, finding quick, nutritious, and flavorful recipes can sometimes feel challenging.

This vegan cauliflower recipe made in the Instant Pot is not only simple but also packed with vibrant spices and wholesome ingredients that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your menu, this dish is a fantastic way to enjoy cauliflower’s natural goodness without spending hours in the kitchen.

In this recipe, the Instant Pot does most of the work, infusing the cauliflower with a rich blend of herbs and spices while keeping it tender yet firm. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests with a healthy and hearty dish.

Plus, it’s gluten-free, oil-free, and incredibly satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan Instant Pot cauliflower dish is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, thanks to the magic of pressure cooking.

In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful and nutritious meal ready to enjoy.

The recipe highlights the natural flavor of cauliflower enhanced by a blend of aromatic spices like cumin, turmeric, and smoked paprika, offering a delightful depth without overpowering the vegetable’s subtle sweetness.

The Instant Pot ensures even cooking and perfectly tender florets every time.

Additionally, this recipe is versatile and easy to customize with your favorite herbs or add-ins like chickpeas or diced tomatoes. It’s a fantastic base for bowls, wraps, or served alongside grains like quinoa or brown rice.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 cup vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil or water for oil-free option
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Instant Pot or any electric pressure cooker
• Knife and cutting board for prepping cauliflower and vegetables
• Measuring spoons for spices and liquids
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring
• Serving bowl or plate

Instructions

1. Prepare the cauliflower: Rinse the cauliflower head under cold water. Cut it into medium-sized florets and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Turn the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting. Add the olive oil (or a splash of water for oil-free cooking). Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent.
3. Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and toast the spices for about 1 minute to release their flavors.
4. Add cauliflower and broth: Pour the vegetable broth into the pot, scraping any bits off the bottom. Add the cauliflower florets and gently stir to coat them with the spice mixture.
5. Pressure cook: Place the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the timer for 3 minutes. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to build pressure before cooking.
6. Release pressure: When the cooking cycle completes, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to venting. Once all the steam has escaped, open the lid.
7. Finish and serve: Stir in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

For the best texture, avoid overcooking the cauliflower. Three minutes under pressure yields tender but not mushy florets.

If you want to add protein, consider stirring in a cup of cooked chickpeas right after pressure cooking. For an extra creamy texture, blend half of the cauliflower with some coconut milk or cashew cream and mix it back in.

Feel free to swap the spices according to your taste. Curry powder, garam masala, or even za’atar can give this dish a new twist.

To make it heartier, add diced potatoes or carrots before pressure cooking.

For a smoky flavor boost, try adding a dash of liquid smoke or smoked salt. And if you love a little crunch, sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds on top before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan Instant Pot cauliflower dish is wonderfully versatile. Serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal.

It also pairs beautifully with warm flatbreads or as a side for vegan lentil stews.

For a fresh contrast, accompany it with a crisp green salad or tangy pickled vegetables like the delightful Maple Bourbon Pickles Recipe. You can also fold the cauliflower into a wrap with tahini sauce and fresh veggies for a quick lunch on the go.

Looking for other easy vegan Instant Pot recipes? Check out the Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food or the flavorful Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for more plant-based inspiration.

Conclusion

This vegan cauliflower recipe made in the Instant Pot is a perfect example of how simple ingredients and minimal effort can result in a delicious, nutritious meal. The pressure cooker brings out the best in cauliflower, creating a tender, flavorful dish that’s great for busy weeknights or meal prep.

By using a thoughtfully balanced mix of spices, this recipe offers a delightful burst of flavor without overwhelming the natural taste of the vegetable. Plus, it’s highly adaptable to your pantry and preferences, making it a staple in your vegan recipe collection.

Whether you’re new to Instant Pot cooking or looking to add more plant-based meals to your routine, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Don’t forget to explore other recipes on our site to keep your culinary adventures exciting and varied!

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