Cauliflower
Brassica oleracea,
form botrytis
Cauliflower harvest and packing scene
in Long Island, NY (1930’s era photo);
Cauliflower vendor (drawing late 19th century)
"Cauliflower is nothing but a cabbage
with a college education."--Mark
Twain
Cauliflower is formed from the natural
flowers of the cabbage plant encouraged to gather
together,unopened,to create a mass which becomes a
large head over time. Depending on type, the heads
can be pale green, white or even purple.

image
source
A native of Asia Minor, the cauliflower
was once described as resembling a bridal bouquet.
The Romans grew cauliflower but
we know little about how they prepared it. The plant
has evoked minimal interest among historians.
Popular in France in the 1600's and
1700's, cauliflower ignites less fire today.
A bland vegetable, it is often eaten slathered with
thick cheese sauces, perhaps to add interest. An organically
grown, youngish cauliflower, perfectly steamed and
served with a bit of butter, is surprisingly tasty.

Asian Indians may well eat the cauliflower best, seasoned
with curry spices. (source)

Vietnamese cauliflower vendor.
Photo by John Landor. Learn about his travels to Dalat
here.
Cauliflowerware
teapot
Cauliflower:
Among the World's Healthiest Foods
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