Name: Butter Cauliflower
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice; 2 tsp. corn starch; 1/2 tsp. ground cumin; 1 tsp. ground turmeric, divided; 3 tsp. garam masala, divided; 1 1/2 tsp. salt, divided; 2 Tbsp. olive oil, divided; 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 3 Tbsp. unsalted butter; 1 yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tsp. freshly grated ginger (or sub ground ginger); 2 Tbsp. tomato paste; 1 tsp. paprika; 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon; Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional); 1 8-oz. can tomato sauce; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream (or sub full-fat canned coconut milk); Basmati rice for serving; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Whole-milk Greek yogurt for garnish

Why Make This Recipe

Butter Cauliflower is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of spices and creamy goodness. This recipe offers a wonderful way to enjoy cauliflower, turning it into a delightful meal that everyone can appreciate. It’s not only vegetarian but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a healthy dinner.

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How to Make Butter Cauliflower

Ingredients:

2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
2 tsp. corn starch
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. ground turmeric, divided
3 tsp. garam masala, divided
1 1/2 tsp. salt, divided
2 Tbsp. olive oil, divided
1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
3 Tbsp. unsalted butter
1 yellow onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp. freshly grated ginger (or sub ground ginger)
2 Tbsp. tomato paste
1 tsp. paprika
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
1 8-oz. can tomato sauce
2 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream (or sub full-fat canned coconut milk)
Basmati rice for serving
Fresh cilantro and whole-milk Greek yogurt for garnish

Directions:

Combine lemon juice, corn starch, cumin, and 1/2 tsp each of turmeric, garam masala, and salt in a large bowl. Set aside.
Heat 1 Tbsp of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook cauliflower, tossing occasionally, until browned in places and beginning to soften, about 7 to 8 minutes.
Reduce heat to medium, and transfer cauliflower to the bowl with the corn starch mixture and toss to coat.
Return seasoned cauliflower to the skillet and cook for another 7 to 8 minutes until charred in spots and crisp-tender. Transfer the cauliflower to a bowl.
Add the remaining 1 Tbsp oil and butter to the skillet. Add the onions and cook until translucent, about 8 minutes.
Stir in garlic, ginger, and tomato paste; cook for 2 minutes, until fragrant.
Add the remaining 1/2 tsp turmeric, 2 1/2 tsp garam masala, and 1 tsp salt, along with paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne; cook for 1 minute.
Add tomato sauce and broth; bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce to a simmer, stir in cream, and return the cauliflower to the skillet.
Simmer uncovered until the sauce thickens, about 15 minutes.
Garnish with cilantro and serve over rice with a dollop of yogurt.

How to Serve Butter Cauliflower

Serve Butter Cauliflower over a bed of fluffy Basmati rice for a complete meal. You can add a dollop of whole-milk Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess. Garnish with fresh cilantro to brighten up the flavors.

How to Store Butter Cauliflower

Allow any leftovers to cool down before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Butter Cauliflower

Make sure to cut the cauliflower into even florets to ensure they cook at the same rate.
Adjust the spices according to your taste preference; add more cayenne for extra heat or less garam masala for a milder flavor.
If you want a vegan option, substitute butter with additional olive oil and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.

Variation

For a different twist, you can add cooked chickpeas for added protein or mix in other veggies like peas or bell peppers during cooking.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cauliflower works well. Thaw it and drain any excess moisture before following the recipe.

2. Is Butter Cauliflower spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and garam masala.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Butter Cauliflower a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

Enjoy making and sharing this flavorful Butter Cauliflower recipe!