Butter Cauliflower

If you’re looking for a cozy and flavorful dish that warms the heart, you’ve come to the right place! This Butter Cauliflower is a delightful twist on the beloved Indian Butter Chicken. It’s creamy, spiced, and utterly comforting—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special without too much fuss. Plus, it’s vegetarian! Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress and fill your home with wonderful aromas.

What I love most about this dish is how it brings together simple ingredients to create something truly delicious. It’s hearty enough for a family gathering yet easy enough for a quick dinner during the week. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a warm meal ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: This Butter Cauliflower is loved by kids and adults alike—everyone will be asking for seconds.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the sauce in advance and simply reheat before serving for even easier meal prep.
• Deliciously creamy: The rich sauce made with coconut milk adds a luxurious touch without any dairy.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice or with naan—this dish fits perfectly into any meal plan!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Butter Cauliflower recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to make this comforting dish!

For the Sauce

• 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)
• 3 Tbsp. unsalted butter

For the Cauliflower

• 1 medium head of cauliflower (cut into florets)
• 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tsp. freshly grated ginger (sub ground ginger)
• 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
• 1 tsp. paprika
• 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

For Serving

• 1 8-oz. can tomato sauce
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (sub full-fat canned coconut milk)
• Basmati rice for serving
• Fresh cilantro and whole-milk Greek yogurt for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about this Butter Cauliflower recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or peas for added color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like more heat, increase the cayenne or add some chopped green chilies.
• Change the grains: Serve it over quinoa or farro instead of rice for a different twist.
• Try different garnishes: Swap cilantro with parsley or add some toasted nuts for an extra crunch.

How to Make Butter Cauliflower

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Start by combining lemon juice, corn starch, cumin, and half of your turmeric, garam masala, and salt in a large bowl. This mixture will help season our cauliflower while giving it a lovely texture when cooked.

Step 2: Sauté the Cauliflower

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your cauliflower florets and cook them until they’re browned in spots and starting to soften—about 7 to 8 minutes. This step is key as it gives the cauliflower that beautiful charred flavor we all love!

Step 3: Coat and Finish Cooking

Reduce the heat to medium and transfer the cauliflower into your bowl with the corn starch mixture, tossing everything to coat well. Return it to the skillet and cook again for another 7 to 8 minutes until it’s crisp-tender with nice charred spots.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil along with butter. Once melted, toss in your onions and sauté until they’re translucent—about 8 minutes—to bring out their natural sweetness. Next, stir in minced garlic, ginger, and tomato paste; let everything cook together until fragrant.

Step 5: Spice It Up!

Time to add flavor! Sprinkle in your remaining turmeric, garam masala, salt, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne if using. Stir well for about a minute before adding tomato sauce and vegetable broth; bring this mixture to a boil.

Step 6: Simmer Together

Lower the heat and let everything simmer gently while stirring in cream or coconut milk before returning your cauliflower back into the skillet. Allow it all to simmer uncovered until the sauce thickens nicely—around 15 minutes.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Once thickened to perfection, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over fluffy basmati rice topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt if desired! Enjoy every bite of this comforting Butter Cauliflower dish!

Pro Tips for Making Butter Cauliflower

Creating the perfect Butter Cauliflower is all about attention to detail and a little love in the kitchen. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out just right!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can elevate the flavor profile of your dish, making it aromatic and delicious. They release essential oils that dried spices may lack.

• Don’t rush the browning: Allowing your cauliflower to brown properly develops a richer flavor. This step adds depth to the dish and enhances its overall appeal.

• Adjust creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to adjust the amount of coconut milk. The key is to find the right balance that suits your taste while maintaining the creaminess.

• Taste as you go: Always taste your sauce before serving! It allows you to adjust seasonings, ensuring every bite is flavorful and satisfying.

• Let it rest: After cooking, let your Butter Cauliflower sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making each spoonful even more delightful.

How to Serve Butter Cauliflower

Serving Butter Cauliflower can be as creative or simple as you wish! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Whole-milk Greek yogurt: A dollop of yogurt provides a creamy tanginess that balances out the spices perfectly.
• Lemon wedges: Serving with lemon wedges allows guests to add an extra zing if they desire!

Side Dishes

• Basmati rice: The classic pairing, basmati rice soaks up the luscious sauce, balancing each bite with fluffy grains.
• Naan bread: Soft and warm naan is perfect for scooping up your Butter Cauliflower, adding a delightful texture.
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with yogurt dressing provides a crunchy contrast and additional cooling effect.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs wonderfully with the spiced cauliflower.

Enjoy crafting this mouthwatering Butter Cauliflower and serving it in style! Your friends and family will surely be impressed by your culinary skills.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butter Cauliflower recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the Butter Cauliflower cool fully before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Butter Cauliflower!

What can I serve with Butter Cauliflower?

Butter Cauliflower pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or naan bread. You can also serve it alongside a green salad for a complete meal.

Can I adjust the spice level in Butter Cauliflower?

Absolutely! Feel free to modify the spices according to your taste. If you prefer less heat, skip the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount of garam masala.

Is Butter Cauliflower a healthy option?

Yes! This Butter Cauliflower recipe is packed with nutrients from cauliflower and includes healthy fats from olive oil and coconut milk. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a vegetarian meal.

How long does it take to make Butter Cauliflower?

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 65 minutes, including prep time. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Butter Cauliflower! It’s not just a delightful dish but also a wonderful way to bring warmth and flavor into your kitchen. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking!