Butter Cauliflower

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious vegetarian dish, this Butter Cauliflower recipe is just what you need! It’s a delightful twist on the classic Butter Chicken, but with tender cauliflower florets simmered in a rich, spiced cream sauce. This dish has become a staple in my home, especially on busy weeknights when I want something quick yet satisfying. The flavors are warm and inviting, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends.

I love that this recipe brings the essence of Indian cuisine to your table while being super easy to prepare. You can whip it up in about an hour and serve it over fluffy basmati rice with a dollop of yogurt. Trust me, once you try this Butter Cauliflower, it will quickly become one of your favorite meals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the creamy texture and flavorful sauce.
• Make-ahead friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep!
• Versatile flavors: You can adjust the spices to suit your taste—add more heat if you like!
• Comfort food at its best: The combination of spices and creamy sauce makes every bite feel like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this Butter Cauliflower! These items are easy to find and come together beautifully to create a rich, flavorful 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)

For the Tomato Base

• 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

For Creaminess

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (sub full-fat canned coconut milk)

For Serving

• Basmati rice for serving
• Fresh cilantro and whole-milk Greek yogurt for garnish

Variations

This Butter Cauliflower recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to experiment with these tasty variations to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Add chickpeas or lentils for an extra boost of protein and fiber.
• Add some greens: Toss in spinach or kale towards the end for added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped green chilies if you love heat.
• Change the base: Serve over quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different twist.

How to Make Butter Cauliflower

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Start by combining lemon juice, corn starch, cumin, and half of each turmeric and garam masala in a large bowl. This mixture not only helps flavor the cauliflower but also gives it a lovely coating that enhances its texture when cooked.

Step 2: Sauté the Cauliflower

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned cauliflower florets and cook them until they are browned in places and beginning to soften—about 7 to 8 minutes should do! This step adds depth to their flavor through caramelization.

Step 3: Cook Until Crisp-Tender

Reduce the heat to medium and transfer the cauliflower back into your bowl with the corn starch mixture; toss well to coat again. Return them to the skillet and continue cooking for another 7 to 8 minutes until they’re charred in spots yet crisp-tender.

Step 4: Sauté Onions and Aromatics

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil along with butter. Once melted, toss in finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent—about 8 minutes will bring out their natural sweetness.

Step 5: Add Spices and Tomato Paste

Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and tomato paste; cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant! This step builds layers of flavor that make your Butter Cauliflower so irresistible.

Step 6: Create the Sauce

Next, add remaining turmeric, garam masala, salt, paprika, cinnamon, and optional cayenne pepper; cook for an additional minute before pouring in tomato sauce and vegetable broth. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing it down to a simmer!

Step 7: Thicken It Up

Once simmering, stir in your choice of cream or coconut milk along with the sautéed cauliflower from earlier. Let everything simmer uncovered until the sauce thickens—about 15 minutes is ideal!

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving over warm basmati rice topped with a dollop of whole-milk Greek yogurt. Enjoy this comforting Butter Cauliflower as you savor each delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Butter Cauliflower

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and these pro tips will help you achieve the best Butter Cauliflower possible!

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices pack more flavor than older ones. When your spices are fresh, they release essential oils that enhance the aroma and taste of your dish.

• Don’t Skip the Browning: Allowing the cauliflower to brown adds depth of flavor. The caramelization process creates a wonderful contrast to the creamy sauce, making each bite irresistible.

• Simmer with Patience: Giving the sauce time to thicken is key. This allows all the spices and flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying curry.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor it to your taste! If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or skip the cayenne pepper. Conversely, if you love heat, feel free to add more chili or spices.

• Make it Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day! Consider making it ahead of time for meal prep or entertaining; just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Butter Cauliflower

Presenting your Butter Cauliflower beautifully can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative serving ideas that will impress your family and guests alike!

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the spices beautifully.
• Whole-milk Greek yogurt: A dollop on top provides creaminess that balances the flavors while adding a touch of tanginess.
• Sliced green onions: They bring a mild onion flavor and vibrant color that enhances both presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice is a classic pairing, soaking up the rich sauce and balancing out the meal perfectly.
• Naan Bread: Soft naan is perfect for scooping up Butter Cauliflower, adding an enjoyable texture contrast to each bite.
• Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt-based side helps mitigate any spice heat while providing a refreshing crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables can complement your main dish with added nutrients and flavors without overwhelming it.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Butter Cauliflower is sure to shine at any dinner table! Enjoy every delicious moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butter Cauliflower recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, flavorful meals throughout the week. You can easily make a batch in advance and store it for quick lunches or dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover butter cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion the butter cauliflower into freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, leave some space at the top of the container as it may expand when frozen.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave it on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this Butter Cauliflower recipe or its preparation, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries that might help clarify things.

Can I use other vegetables instead of cauliflower for this Butter Cauliflower recipe?

Absolutely! While cauliflower is a star ingredient here, you can substitute it with other veggies like broccoli or chickpeas. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Butter Cauliflower spicier?

To add more heat to your Butter Cauliflower, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped green chilies when cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference!

What can I serve with Butter Cauliflower?

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

Can I make Butter Cauliflower vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the unsalted butter with vegan butter and use full-fat canned coconut milk instead of heavy cream. This will keep it creamy while making it suitable for a vegan diet.

Is Butter Cauliflower gluten-free?

Yes! This dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that all ingredients used (like broth and spices) are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Butter Cauliflower recipe as much as I do! It’s not only packed with flavor but also incredibly comforting and satisfying. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner at home or meal prep for busy weekdays, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!