What is the history of cauliflower?

Answer 1

"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. A native of Asia Minor, the cauliflower was once described as resembling a bridal bouquet.

Cauliflower is younger than cabbage, originating sometime after the birth of Christ, most likely in Cyprus. The Romans grew cauliflower but we know little about how they prepared it. It was introduced to France from Italy in the middle of the 16th century. It was popular at the court of Louis XIV, where it was served in rich, elegant dishes. Cauliflower was introduced in England in the early 17th century. Its introduction to the United States has been fairly recent. As with broccoli, it was much more popular in ethnic communities, especially with Italians, and was not developed commercially until the 1920s.

An organically grown, youngish cauliflower, perfectly steamed and served with a bit of butter or margarine, is surprisingly tasty. Asian Indians may well eat the cauliflower best, seasoned with curry spices.