Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butter Cauliflower is a cozy and indulgent dish that’s both creamy and aromatic, thanks to the perfect balance of spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala. The cauliflower takes on a tender texture, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the sauce, while the creamy base adds richness. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or just craving a hearty dish, this recipe will become a go-to favorite in your meal rotation. Plus, it’s perfect for serving at dinner parties or for weeknight meals.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower:

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons cornstarch
½ teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground turmeric (divided)
3 teaspoons garam masala (divided)
1 ½ teaspoons salt (divided)
2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets

For the Sauce:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 yellow onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger (or ground ginger)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
2 cups vegetable broth
½ cup heavy cream (or full-fat canned coconut milk for a dairy-free version)

For Serving:

Basmati rice
Fresh cilantro
Whole-milk Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt, if preferred)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower:

In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, cornstarch, cumin, ½ teaspoon turmeric, 1 teaspoon garam masala, and 1 teaspoon salt to create a slurry.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the cauliflower florets and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they start to brown slightly. Remove the cauliflower from the skillet and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce:

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes, or until soft and translucent.
Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and the remaining turmeric, garam masala, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to let the spices bloom.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute.
Add the tomato sauce and vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

3. Combine the Cauliflower and Sauce:

Return the browned cauliflower to the skillet and stir well to coat the cauliflower in the sauce.
Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the sauce.
Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and the remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce is creamy and well-combined.

4. Serve:

Serve the butter cauliflower over a bed of warm basmati rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt.
Enjoy your rich, comforting butter cauliflower!

Servings and Timing

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Notes

Creamy Option: If you prefer a richer sauce, feel free to use more butter or coconut milk in place of the heavy cream.
Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper and paprika to suit your spice preference. For a milder version, leave out the cayenne altogether.
Vegan Version: For a vegan version, use coconut oil or olive oil in place of butter and coconut milk in place of heavy cream.
Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, you can add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the sauce to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.

Variations

Protein Add-ins: Add tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for extra protein. Just stir them into the sauce and simmer until heated through.
Vegetable Add-ins: Add other vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or spinach for more color and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a little vegetable broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen cauliflower works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before using.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. Store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To make it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or fresh chili peppers to the sauce.

Conclusion

This Butter Cauliflower is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich flavors of spices, buttery sauce, and tender cauliflower. It’s a simple, yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone who enjoys bold, aromatic flavors. Whether you serve it for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week, this dish will quickly become a favorite!