Cauliflower Challenges

In an effort to use up some cauliflower before our departure in late October, I tried Patricia's Golden Cauliflower and Rice Pilaf on P. 144. She recommends golden rice from Camargue (which I don't have) so I tried a black Venere rice thinking the cauliflower would stand out nicely. I just finished cooking it and so far I think there is a slight bitterness to the spice mix (curry powder, piment d'Esplette, cumin and cardamom)...maybe it is my spices or the rice made it taste funny. The bad news is the cauliflower is mushy...I might have to try this one again with Camargue rice because I'm not charmed by this dish so far.