Description
This creamy root vegetable purée combines cauliflower, parsnip, celeriac, and sweet potato into a silky, flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with meat, poultry, or seafood. Naturally dairy-free and easy to make in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot, it gets its rich texture from the vegetables themselves and its deep flavor from warming spices and a simple technique of sautéing the aromatics and vegetables before pressure cooking. Turmeric lends a beautiful golden color and subtle warmth, making this nourishing purée a delicious alternative to mashed potatoes for both everyday meals and holiday tables.
Ingredients
- 1/2 large cauliflower head (about 500 g / 1.1 lb), cut into florets
- 1 large parsnip, peeled and cubed (about 180 g / 6 oz)
- 1 small celeriac, peeled and cubed (about 250 g / 9 oz)
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed (about 250 g / 9 oz)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4–5 garlic cloves, lightly smashed
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 4–5 whole allspice berries (or 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup (240 ml) water
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, for finishing
- 1/2 teaspoon dried chives or a small handful fresh chives, chopped
- Additional salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables. Cut the parsnip, celeriac, and sweet potato into medium cubes. Leave the cauliflower in larger florets.
- Set a pressure cooker or Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the olive oil, garlic, and mustard seeds. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.
- Add the allspice and turmeric, then immediately add the vegetables. Stir well to coat everything in the oil and spices.
- Add the water, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Secure the lid and pressure cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.
- Allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 to 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure.
- Remove approximately half of the cooking liquid and reserve it.
- Blend the vegetables using an immersion blender until smooth. Alternatively, transfer everything to a high-speed blender.
- Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and blend again. Add some of the reserved cooking liquid as needed to achieve your preferred consistency.
- Stir in the chives and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm.
Notes
The purée can be made 1 to 2 days in advance and refrigerated.
Save any extra cooking liquid and use it when reheating if the purée becomes too thick.
For a smoother, more elegant texture, blend in a high-speed blender rather than using an immersion blender.
If serving to babies under one year of age, omit the salt and spices and purée until completely smooth.
