Cauliflower 'Steak' with Mushroom Peppercorn Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 head cauliflower, leaves and stem trimmed*
• 4 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
• 2 cups vegetable stock
• 1 cup vermouth or dry white wine
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tbsp oil
• 1/2 tbsp non-dairy butter
• 1/4 cup shallots, minced
• 3/4 lb mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 2 cups stock
• sea salt, to taste
• 2 tbsp black peppercorns, crushed
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 tbsp non-dairy butter
• 2 tbsp slurry, or as needed
• 1/3 cup Cashew Cream (optional)