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Butter Cauliflower

Butter Cauliflower: Creamy, Cozy Comfort for Any Night

This Butter Cauliflower is a delicious, creamy vegetarian dish delivering the comforting flavors of Butter Chicken without the guilt.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 2 Tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice Lime juice can substitute.
  • 1 Tbsp Corn Starch Be careful not to use too much.
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin Toasting seeds enhances flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp Ground Turmeric Using in two stages enhances flavor.
  • 2 1/2 tsp Garam Masala Essential for authentic flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp Salt Use in stages for seasoning.
  • 1 Tbsp Olive Oil Use for sautéing.
For the Main Ingredients
  • 1 medium head Cauliflower Cut into uniform florets.
  • 3 Tbsp Unsalted Butter For richness.
  • 1 finely chopped Yellow Onion Foundation for flavor.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced for flavor.
  • 2 tsp Freshly Grated Ginger Adds warmth.
For the Tomato Base
  • 2 Tbsp Tomato Paste Amplifies tomato flavor.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Mild spiciness and color.
  • 1/4 tsp Ground Cinnamon Use sparingly.
  • pinch Cayenne Pepper Optional, adjust to taste.
  • 8 oz Canned Tomato Sauce Forms the sauce base.
  • 2 cups Vegetable Broth Provides depth of flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream For a luxurious texture.
For Serving
  • as needed Basmati Rice Compliments the dish.
  • as needed Fresh Cilantro For garnish.
  • as needed Whole-Milk Greek Yogurt For garnish.

Equipment

  • large bowl
  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Butter Cauliflower
  1. In a large bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice, corn starch, ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, 2 1/2 teaspoons of garam masala, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until smooth. Cut one medium head of cauliflower into uniform florets and toss them in this mixture.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 7 to 8 minutes until browned and softened.
  3. Return the cauliflower to the bowl with the corn starch mixture and toss to coat again. Cook for an additional 7 to 8 minutes until charred and crisp-tender.
  4. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Sauté one finely chopped yellow onion for about 8 minutes until translucent.
  5. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 teaspoons of freshly grated ginger, and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, cooking for 2 minutes until aromatic.
  6. Sprinkle in the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, 2 1/2 teaspoons of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of paprika, a pinch of ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper if desired. Stir and sauté for an additional minute.
  7. Pour in 8 ounces of tomato sauce and 2 cups of vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  8. Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and gently add the crisp-tender cauliflower back into the skillet, coating it evenly with the rich sauce. Allow to simmer for about 15 minutes.
  9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over fluffy basmati rice or quinoa, with a dollop of Greek yogurt on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 8gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Consider adding chickpeas for extra protein. Adjust spices to personal preference.

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