Baked Broccoli In Celery Cream Recipe

About this recipe

A comforting and flavorful baked broccoli dish, perfect for dinner. This Jain-friendly recipe uses a creamy celery sauce and a hint of spice for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients

• 450G Pack'D Organic Broccoli Florets
• 220 Ml The Coconut Collab Plant-Based Double Cream
• 80 g Mozzarisella Granri Plant Based Grated Parmesan Style 80G
• 250 Ml Arla Lactofree Cream
• 50G Top-Op Nutmeg Powder 50g

Instructions

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. 2. In a saucepan, combine 200 ml of fresh cream and 1/2 tsp of nutmeg powder. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
3. 3. Steam 500 g of broccoli florets until they are tender but still slightly crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
4. 4. Arrange the steamed broccoli evenly in a casserole dish.
5. 5. Pour the creamy mixture over the broccoli, ensuring it is evenly coated.
6. 6. Sprinkle 50 g of grated cheese (optional, if preferred) evenly over the top.
7. 7. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
8. 8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Frequently asked questions

Why is nutmeg powder used in the celery cream sauce?

Nutmeg adds a warm, slightly sweet and earthy flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce and balances the mild bitterness of the broccoli. It’s a classic pairing with cream-based dishes, enhancing their depth without overpowering other ingredients.

How do I know when the broccoli is steamed to the right texture?

The broccoli should be tender but still slightly crisp, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes of steaming. To test, pierce a floret with a fork — it should go in easily but still offer some resistance to avoid overcooking, which can make the dish mushy.

What’s the role of the plant-based grated cheese in this recipe?

The plant-based grated cheese adds a savory, umami-rich topping that melts and forms a golden, bubbling crust during baking. While optional, it enhances the dish’s texture and flavor, making it more indulgent and satisfying.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it?

Yes, you can assemble the dish (up to step 6) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through evenly.

What’s a common mistake to avoid when making Baked Broccoli in Celery Cream?

A common mistake is overcooking the broccoli during steaming, which can lead to a soggy texture after baking. To avoid this, steam the broccoli just until it’s tender-crisp and let it cool slightly before arranging it in the casserole dish.