Cauliflower 'Steak' with Peanuts & Herbs

Serving this dish with the Thai Peanut Sauce is optional, but HIGHLY recommended. Note that the peanut sauce can be made a day or two in advance—just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving. Also note that you may need to thin it out a bit. Any leftover peanut sauce can be stored for another use. For instance, it goes particularly well with dishes like fresh spring rolls.

To bake the cauliflower, first preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). *NOTE: Do NOT core the cauliflower. The stem is needed to keep the 'steaks' intact. With the cauliflower sitting on its stem, cut in half through the middle. Trim the outer edge of each half to form a thick steak-like piece of cauliflower. Each piece should be approximately 1 1/2 inch thick. In a 9x11 baking dish, mix together the garlic, stock, vermouth, makrut lime leaves and salt. *Note: The amount of salt you add will depend on how salty your stock is to begin with. Taste for seasoning and adjust as necessary. Place the cauliflower into the liquid and cover tightly with foil. Carefully transfer to the oven and let bake for approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Ultimately, the time will depend on how thick the 'steaks' are and your oven. Test the 'steaks' periodically. When a knife goes in somewhat easily the cauliflower is done. Note: The cauliflower should be cooked through, but still a bit firm. If it's too soft, it will fall apart during frying. Meanwhile, go ahead and prepare the remaining ingredients for the sauce.

As the cauliflower bakes, prepare the remaining mise en place. *Note: Depending on how hot you like things, you can either use more, or less chilies. You can also remove the seeds if desired. Mix together the lime juice,"Fish-Less Fish Sauce" and palm sugar and reserve for later. Note: Adjust the amount of fish sauce depending on your taste. The amount used will also depend on whether or not you have used a different fish sauce.

Once the cauliflower is ready, carefully remove the foil from the baking dish, making sure you don't burn yourself from the steam. At this point, remove the 'steaks' from the liquid and place onto a plate lined with paper towel. Blot the top of the cauliflower with paper towel as well. This step helps ensure you get a nice golden crust. Next, heat a large fry pan—or better yet, a cast iron skillet—over medium heat. Once hot, add the oil, followed by the cauliflower. Let the cauliflower cook for about 4 to 6 minutes, or until golden brown on each side. Try not to fiddle with the pieces too much, otherwise the 'steaks' will start to fall apart. Once done, set aside while you prepare the sauce.

To make the sauce, preheat a fry pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the oil, followed by the shallots. Let cook for a minute or so and then add the ginger, garlic and chilies. Cook for another 30 seconds or so then add the reserved lime juice mixture. Next add the green onions and toss to combine. Let cook for another 30 seconds. Once done, remove from the heat and add the fresh herbs and peanuts. Toss to combine and taste for seasoning. To finish the dish, place a spoonful of peanut sauce onto the a plate and spread out to form a round. Place a cauliflower 'steak' into the middle. Top with the warm sauce and serve immediately.