How to clean cauliflower?

I have asked many people about "best to way to clean cauliflower" before cooking. I got several answers, like keeping in salt water or add soak in turmeric mixed water. And also how do you remove worms from cauliflower?



Best Answer

A bucket of salty water is the best way to get rid of bugs. That said, I've never had a problem with bugs in store-bought cauliflower.

You need to completely submerge the head in water, so a bucket that can fit the whole head is best. Add about 2 Tbsp salt per quart warm water to get it nice and salty. Submerge the head, florets down (they float, so a weight to keep it submerged will help). Let sit 5-10 minutes, remove, rinse, and eat as you please.

The salt in the water helps to kill the bugs and encourage them to let go. It also might kill some surface contamination if it exists, but this isn't really the point. You should see bugs either floating or at the bottom when you remove the cauliflower.

If you don't need the head whole when cooking, core and cut into desired size prior to soaking.




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How do you properly clean cauliflower?

How to Clean Cauliflower
  • Materials Needed.
  • Step 1: Cut Up the Cauliflower.
  • Step 2: Rinse Under Running Water.
  • Step 3: Boil Water.
  • Step 4: Prep a Bowl of Ice Water.
  • Step 5: Boil Cauliflower for 2 Minutes.
  • Step 6: Soak Cauliflower in Water for 30 Minutes.
  • Step 7: Strain Out the Good Cauliflower.


  • Are you supposed to wash cauliflower?

    Cauliflower should not be washed until it is going to be cut up and used. After the cauliflower has been cut up as shown below, soak it in salt water or vinegar water to help force any insects out that are lodged within the florets.

    How do you remove bugs from cauliflower?

    Pro tip: If you are concerned about critters such as worms and insects hanging out in your organic cauliflower, soak the head in salt water for 30 minutes before cooking. This will remove and kill any unintended protein sources. After soaking, rinse with the head with cool water.




    More answers regarding how to clean cauliflower?

    Answer 2

    I actually break it apart into the size you want to cook it and then let it soak in salt water (this help get into the crevices). Then, toss into a colander and spray with a sink sprayer while shaking it. I do this with similar veggies as well.

    Answer 3

    Tap Water is what I've used.

    Answer 4

    Ok peoples....what you have to do with store bought or garden fresh...is soak the broccoli in salt water...now here is the catch....after a few minutes you will see white flat works swimming at the top of the water...its absolutely disgusting...scoop them out...wait for more...once no more come up..rinse it very well. Unfortunately I have been so grossed out after seeing those white babies that I haven't eaten cauliflower in years...but hey...go for it.

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