Grilled Black Beans with Cauliflower

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.

   Tip: If using a grill pan instead, heat it on the stovetop until it's very hot and begins to smoke lightly.

2. 2

   Pat the cauliflower steaks dry with paper towels. Brush both sides generously with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

   Tip: Dry cauliflower grills better and develops better char marks.

3. 3

   Place cauliflower steaks on the hot grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until they have golden-brown char marks and are fork-tender. Set aside.

   Tip: Don't move them around too much—let them sit to develop that smoky char.

4. 4

   While the cauliflower grills, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced red onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened.

   Tip: Medium heat prevents the onions from burning while they release their natural sweetness.

5. 5

   Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, then add cumin and smoked paprika. Toast the spices for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

   Tip: Toasting spices blooms their flavors and makes them more aromatic.

6. 6

   Pour in the drained black beans and vegetable broth, stirring well to combine. Simmer for 5-8 minutes until the beans are heated through and the liquid reduces slightly.

   Tip: The beans should be warm and slightly thickened but still have some liquid.

7. 7

   Remove the bean mixture from heat and stir in fresh lime juice and half of the chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

   Tip: Lime juice brightens the earthy black bean flavor.

8. 8

   Arrange grilled cauliflower steaks on serving plates and spoon the warm black bean mixture alongside or over the cauliflower. Garnish with remaining fresh cilantro and a drizzle of olive oil.

   Tip: Serve immediately while the cauliflower is still warm and has its crispy exterior intact.