Stewed Cauliflower (Greek “Kounoupidi Kokkinisto”) — A Taste of Greek Comfort

Stewed cauliflower, known in Greek as kounoupidi kokkinisto, is one of those humble yet deeply comforting dishes that remind us of family meals at grandma’s table.

Slowly cooked with fresh tomato, olive oil, and aromatic herbs, simple cauliflower transforms into a plate full of warmth and flavor.

In the old days, Greek families made this dish often during fasting periods or on days when meat wasn’t served.

Despite its simplicity, its rich aroma filled the whole house, bringing everyone to the table.

Served with a slice of crusty bread or a bit of feta, kounoupidi kokkinisto is a timeless classic of Greek home cooking.

Ingredients

1 large cauliflower
2 onions, finely chopped
A few celery stalks, chopped
3 tbsp tomato paste
100 ml olive oil
1 tsp sweet paprika
Salt
Freshly ground pepper

Method

Prepare the cauliflower

Cut the cauliflower into florets and wash it thoroughly. Drain well.

Sauté

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cauliflower pieces and sauté gently until lightly golden.

Add the aromatics

Add the chopped onions and celery. Continue to sauté for another 3–4 minutes, until they soften.

Make the sauce

Dissolve the tomato paste in a bit of warm water and pour it into the pot. Add enough water to just cover the cauliflower florets.

Season & simmer

Add the paprika, salt, and pepper. Lower the heat and let the dish simmer gently for about 30–40 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Serve

Serve warm, drizzled with a little extra olive oil and fresh bread on the side.

Extra Tips

For a richer tomato sauce, add half a grated ripe tomato along with the paste.
To bring out natural sweetness, add a sliced carrot during sautéing.
Traditional secret: sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon just before serving — it adds a gentle warmth that beautifully complements the tomato sauce.
Perfect for fasting or vegan diets, but also delicious served with feta or Greek yogurt.
Simmer slowly and patiently — this is what gives the sauce that classic “melt-in-your-mouth” texture.

Nutritional Value

Greek stewed cauliflower is naturally low in calories, rich in fiber, vitamin C, calcium, and antioxidants.

100% vegan and Mediterranean-diet friendly
Boosts immune system and supports detoxification
Light yet satisfying

Approximate nutrition per serving (~250 g):

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Protein: 5 g

Wine Pairing

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine such as Roditis or Moschofilero, both of which enhance the freshness of the tomato and celery. If you prefer something fruitier, try a light rosé.

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