Cauliflower in Tomato Sauce Kounoupithi Yahini

Experience the comforting flavors of Cyprus with "Cauliflower in Tomato Sauce (Kounoupithi Yahini)," a hearty, plant-based dish that celebrates simplicity and bold Mediterranean ingredients. Tender cauliflower florets are simmered to perfection in a rich tomato sauce infused with aromatic cinnamon, bay leaf, and a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors. The recipe features a base of sautéed onions and garlic, paired with olive oil for an authentic Mediterranean touch, while fresh parsley adds a vibrant finish. Perfect as a satisfying vegetarian main or a flavorful side dish, this one-pot recipe is both wholesome and easy to make, coming together in just under an hour. Serve it warm with crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce, and enjoy a comforting meal that's big on flavor and low on effort.

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 head (medium-sized) Cauliflower
• 4 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 large (finely chopped) Onion
• 2 (minced) Garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
• 400 grams Canned diced tomatoes
• 2 cups Vegetable stock
• 1 teaspoon Sugar
• 1 Cinnamon stick
• 1 Bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon (or to taste) Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon (or to taste) Black pepper
• 2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish) Fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1

Cut the cauliflower into medium-sized florets, discarding the stem and leaves. Rinse thoroughly under cold water and set aside.

Step 2

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes to enhance its flavor.

Step 5

Add the canned diced tomatoes, vegetable stock, sugar, cinnamon stick, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and bring the sauce to a simmer.

Step 6

Add the cauliflower florets to the pot, ensuring they are well-coated in the tomato sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender but not falling apart.

Step 7

Remove the cinnamon stick and bay leaf before serving.

Step 8

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm with crusty bread or as a side dish to your favorite main course.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1635.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1126.9

Total Fat 74.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 13.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 10.3g
Cholesterol 8mg	0%
Sodium 4716.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 101.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 28.8g	0%
Total Sugars 45.3g
Protein 25.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 395.9mg	0%
Iron 9.3mg	0%
Potassium 3799.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 56.8%

Protein: 8.7%

Carbs: 34.5%