1largehead cauliflowercore removed and roughly cut into florets
½tablespoonolive oil
4clovesgarlicsmashed
1½cupschicken brothyou can also use vegetable broth or water
½tablespoonbutter
1tablespoonsour cream
½teaspoonsaltor to taste
¼teaspoonfreshly ground black pepperor to taste
½cupfreshly grated parmesan cheese
½teaspoonchopped fresh chivesplus more for garnish
Instructions
Prep the IP. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil to the Instant Pot and heat it up.
Saute the garlic. Stir in the smashed garlic cloves; mix and stir until garlic is golden brown on all sides, about 1 minute.
Deglaze. Stir in the chicken broth and cook for 1 minute.
Add the cauliflower. Turn off the "sauté" mode and place the steamer basket inside your Instant Pot. Transfer the cauliflower florets to the basket inside the Instant Pot.
Cook. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Set on manual setting and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes. Use the quick release function to release the pressure. Open up the lid halfway and let stand for 3 minutes.
Process the cauliflower florets. Drain out all of the liquid and transfer the cauliflower and garlic to a food processor or blender. You can also put the cauliflower and garlic in a large bowl and use a potato masher.
Mix in the remaining ingredients. Add butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper to the blender; process until blended and creamy. I recommend using the pulse function because you have more control over how creamy or chunky you want your mashed cauliflower.
Finish and serve. Transfer the cauliflower mixture to a mixing bowl or serving dish. Stir in the parmesan cheese and chives. Taste for seasonings and adjust accordingly. Garnish with fresh chives and serve.
Notes
Liquid Quantity: In the Instant Pot, use the suggested amount of chicken broth or water, which is enough for steaming and enough to create pressure without drenching the cauliflower.
Quick Release: Use the quick release after cooking to instantly halt the process and avoid overcooking.
Draining: After cooking, drain the cauliflower as much as you can. If needed, use a sieve or cheesecloth to press out extra moisture.
To Make Ahead: Make the mashed cauliflower as per the recipe; let it cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat over low heat. Taste for seasonings and adjust accordingly. Add more butter or sour cream if needed.