Broccoli & Cauliflower cheese

(serves 4)

This is a variation of the classic cauliflower cheese, adapted from a Jamie oliver recipe. I've only tried cauliflower cheese a handful of times, and i have to say that i do prefer having the tasty sister broccoli there too for extra colour and taste! The almond breadcrumb topping is also super scrumptious and a great idea for a bit of extra crunch! 

Prep time: 30 min
Cooking time: 1hr

Ingredients
2 garlic cloves
50g butter
50g flour
750mL semi-skim milk
1 tsp nutmeg
5 sprigs thyme
pinch of cajun seasoning
salt, pepper
1 medium broccoli
50g-80g cheddar cheese, grated
1 medium cauliflower
2 slices bread
50g silvered almonds

Method
1. Preheat the oven to 180˚C.
2. Finely slice the garlic. Put a saucepan on low-medium heat, then add the butter and garlic. When the butter has melted,  whisk in the flour bit by bit to make a paste.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking as you go until it is smooth.
4. Cut the broccoli into small florets, then add to the sauce. Season with nutmeg, 3 sprigs thyme, pinch of cajun, salt and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until the broccoli is soft.
5. Grate in half the cheese and season to taste.

6. Cut the cauliflower into florets and arrange in a baking dish. Pour the broccoli and white sauce over it and sprinkle over with the remaining cheese.
7. Using a mini food processor, blend the bread, almonds and 2 sprigs thyme into breadcrumbs. Toss with olive oil, salt and pepper then sprinkle on top of the cauliflower and bake for 45-60 minutes.

8. Remove from the oven when the topping has browned and the cauliflower is soft. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving as it is very hot!!