Butter Cauliflower

This Butter Cauliflower recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Indian dish, Butter Chicken. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a show-stopping dish at gatherings. With tender cauliflower florets simmered in a spiced cream sauce, you’ll enjoy rich flavors while keeping it vegetarian. Serve it over rice with yogurt for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Rich: The combination of spices creates a depth of flavor that elevates this dish to new heights.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, anyone can master this Butter Cauliflower recipe without hassle.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, with naan, or even as part of a vegetable platter.
• Nutrient-Packed: Cauliflower is low in calories yet high in fiber and vitamins, making this dish both healthy and filling.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and simply reheat for quick lunches or dinners during the week.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Butter Cauliflower is straightforward, but having the right tools can make the experience even smoother. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious dish:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for sautéing the cauliflower and cooking the sauce evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine ingredients thoroughly before cooking, ensuring even seasoning throughout.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering Butter Cauliflower, gather the following ingredients:

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)

For the Cauliflower

• 1 medium head of cauliflower (cut into florets)
• 3 Tbsp. unsalted butter

Aromatics and Spices

• 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)

Tomato Base

• 1 8-oz. can tomato sauce
• 2 cups vegetable broth

Creamy Element

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

For Serving

• Basmati rice
• Fresh cilantro
• Whole-milk Greek yogurt

How to Make Butter Cauliflower

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Combine lemon juice, corn starch, cumin, and 1/2 tsp each of turmeric, garam masala, and salt in a large bowl. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Cauliflower

Heat 1 Tbsp of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
– Cook cauliflower for 7 to 8 minutes until browned and slightly softened.
– Reduce heat to medium; transfer cauliflower to the bowl with corn starch mixture and toss to coat.
– Return seasoned cauliflower to skillet; cook for another 7 to 8 minutes until charred in spots and crisp-tender.
– Transfer cooked cauliflower to a bowl.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Add remaining 1 Tbsp oil and butter to the skillet.
– Add onions; cook until translucent (about 8 minutes).
– Stir in garlic, ginger, and tomato paste; cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
– Add remaining turmeric, garam masala, salt, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne; cook for 1 minute.

Step 4: Simmer Together

Add tomato sauce and broth; bring mixture to a boil.
– Reduce heat to simmer; stir in cream.
– Return cooked cauliflower to skillet; simmer uncovered until sauce thickens (about 15 minutes).

Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving over rice with a dollop of yogurt for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Butter Cauliflower

Serving Butter Cauliflower is a delightful experience that brings rich flavors and textures to your table. Below are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Basmati Rice

• Serve the Butter Cauliflower over fluffy basmati rice for a traditional pairing. The rice absorbs the creamy sauce, making every bite satisfying.

Garnished with Fresh Cilantro

• Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top just before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness to each bite.

Accompanied by Greek Yogurt

• A dollop of whole-milk Greek yogurt provides a creamy contrast to the spices in the dish. It balances the flavors and adds richness.

As Part of a Thali

• Present Butter Cauliflower as part of an Indian thali with various small dishes. Include lentils, pickles, and flatbreads for a complete meal experience.

Paired with Naan or Roti

• Serve with warm naan or roti for scooping up the Butter Cauliflower. This adds an authentic touch and makes for an enjoyable eating experience.

With a Side Salad

• A light cucumber and tomato salad can complement the richness of Butter Cauliflower. The crunch and freshness help balance the meal.

How to Perfect Butter Cauliflower

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Butter Cauliflower, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose fresh cauliflower: Fresh florets provide better texture and flavor compared to older ones that may be soft or bland.

• Use high-quality spices: Freshly ground spices enhance flavor significantly. Consider grinding whole spices for a more intense taste.

• Adjust spice levels: Customize the amount of cayenne pepper and garam masala based on your preference for heat and flavor.

• Simmer longer for depth: Allowing the sauce to simmer longer helps develop deeper flavors in your Butter Cauliflower.

• Ensure proper coating: When tossing cauliflower in the corn starch mixture, ensure even coverage for optimal browning and crispiness.

• Experiment with garnishes: Try adding toasted nuts or seeds for added texture and nutrition, enhancing both appearance and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Butter Cauliflower

Complementing your Butter Cauliflower with side dishes can elevate your meal further. Here are some excellent options:

1. Chickpea Salad: A refreshing salad made with chickpeas, cucumber, red onion, and lemon dressing offers protein and crunch.

2. Raita: This yogurt-based side made with cucumber and spices cools down any heat from the main dish while adding creaminess.

3. Aloo Gobi: A spiced potato and cauliflower dish that pairs well in flavor profile while offering variety in textures.

4. Saag Paneer: Creamy spinach cooked with paneer cheese provides a rich alternative side that complements the spices beautifully.

5. Vegetable Samosas: These crispy pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas add an appealing crunch to your dinner spread.

6. Lentil Dal: A warm bowl of lentil dal offers hearty protein while complementing the buttery flavors of the main dish.

7. Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt dip made from cucumbers helps balance out spices while adding creaminess to each bite.

8. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables seasoned simply add color and nutrition without overpowering your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding pitfalls in cooking can make or break your dish. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of while making Butter Cauliflower.

• Skipping the marination: Not allowing the cauliflower to marinate in the spices can lead to a bland flavor. Always take time to coat your cauliflower well before cooking.
• Overcooking the cauliflower: Cooking it too long can make the florets mushy. Aim for a crisp-tender texture by monitoring cooking times closely.
• Using insufficient seasoning: Under-seasoning the sauce will result in a dull taste. Make sure to follow the spice measurements and adjust according to your preference.
• Neglecting the simmer time: Skipping the simmer time after adding cream can prevent the sauce from thickening properly. Allow it to simmer uncovered for at least 15 minutes.
• Choosing the wrong cream substitute: Opting for low-fat cream instead of full-fat coconut milk may change the dish’s richness. Stick with full-fat options for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Butter Cauliflower in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Butter Cauliflower

• Transfer cooled Butter Cauliflower to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Butter Cauliflower

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about preparing Butter Cauliflower.

What is Butter Cauliflower?

Butter Cauliflower is a vegetarian version of Butter Chicken that uses cauliflower florets cooked in a spiced creamy sauce, offering a rich and flavorful dish.

Can I customize my Butter Cauliflower?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas or bell peppers or adjust spice levels according to your taste preferences.

Is Butter Cauliflower vegan?

For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil or plant-based butter and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.

What should I serve with Butter Cauliflower?

Butter Cauliflower pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, quinoa, or naan bread and can be garnished with cilantro and yogurt.

Final Thoughts

This Butter Cauliflower recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. It’s an excellent option whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner or a unique vegetarian dish to impress guests!