Mashed Cauliflower

You’ve made mashed potatoes before, but have you ever tried mashed cauliflower?  This recipe, found on foodnetwork.com, is a delicious low carb alternative to your traditional mashed potatoes.  Try pre-roasting the garlic and adding a little fresh rosemary for an even bigger taste.  Serves 4.

Ingredients:
1 medium head cauliflower
1 Tablespoon cream cheese, softened
¼ cup grated Parmesan
½ teaspoon minced garlic
⅛ teaspoon straight chicken base or bullion (may substitute ½ teaspoon salt)
⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon chopped fresh or dry chives, for garnish
3 Tablespoons unsalted butter

Procedure:

1. Clean and cut cauliflower into small pieces. Cook in boiling water for about 6 minutes, or until well done. Drain well; do not let cool and pat cooked cauliflower very dry between several layers of paper towels.
2. In a bowl with an immersion blender, or in a food processor, purée the hot cauliflower with the cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, chicken base, and pepper until almost smooth.
3. Garnish with chives, and serve hot with pats of butter.