Step 1Start by steaming the whole cauliflower. To do this, place it in a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water, cover with a lid, and steam for 6 to 10 minutes until it's crisp-tender (less if you prefer a bit more crunch, more if you like it tender). If you don't have a steamer, you can place the cauliflower directly in a pot with about an inch of water, cover, and steam it that way. Once it's done, remove it from the heat and take off the lid to let the steam escape. Allow the cauliflower to cool on a chopping board until it's at about room temperature.