What's the Best Substitute for Cauliflower?
Whether you're out of Cauliflower or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Versatile cruciferous vegetable with a mild, slightly nutty flavor, commonly used as a low-carb substitute for grains and starches In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for cauliflower are broccoli, cabbage, or turnips, depending on the cooking method.
Best Substitutes for Cauliflower
Broccoli
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- roasting
- steaming
- soups
- stir-fries
Description
Similar cruciferous vegetable with comparable texture and mild flavor. Works well in most cauliflower applications.
Slightly more bitter than cauliflower but cooks similarly. Cut into similar-sized pieces.
Cabbage
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- soups
- stews
- stir-fries
- roasting
Description
Mild-flavored vegetable that can be used in many cauliflower dishes, especially when cooked.
More watery than cauliflower, so cooking times may be shorter. Red cabbage adds color.
Turnips
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- roasting
- mashing
- soups
- purees
Description
Root vegetable with mild flavor that works well as a cauliflower substitute, especially when roasted or mashed.
Slightly sweeter than cauliflower. Peel before using and cut into similar sizes.
Romanesco
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- roasting
- steaming
- raw preparations
- soups
Description
Close relative of cauliflower with similar flavor and texture. Often called 'broccoli cauliflower'.
More visually striking with its fractal pattern. Slightly nuttier flavor than regular cauliflower.
Zucchini
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- raw preparations
- stir-fries
- pasta substitutes
- fritters
Description
Mild summer squash that can substitute for cauliflower in many dishes, especially when grated or spiralized.
Much more watery than cauliflower. Salt and drain before using to remove excess moisture.
Potatoes
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- mashing
- roasting
- soups
- purees
Description
Starchy root vegetable that works well as a cauliflower substitute, especially for mashed or roasted preparations.
Much higher in carbs than cauliflower. Cook until very tender for mashing applications.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Cauliflower, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Cut cauliflower into uniform pieces for even cooking - aim for 1-2 inch florets
Don't overcook cauliflower as it becomes mushy and develops a sulfurous smell
For roasting, toss cauliflower with oil and seasonings, then roast at 425°F for 20-25 minutes
To make cauliflower rice, pulse raw florets in a food processor until rice-sized
Steam cauliflower for 5-7 minutes until just tender for the best texture
Cauliflower can be eaten raw in salads and crudité platters
Store cauliflower in the refrigerator for up to a week, wrapped loosely in plastic
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications