Butter Cauliflower, also known as creamy cauliflower curry, has become a beloved dish for many food enthusiasts. This rich and flavorful recipe combines tender cauliflower florets with a buttery, spiced sauce that enchants the palate. With its irresistibly creamy texture, it’s no wonder this dish has garnered a devoted following in vegetarian and vegan circles.
Moreover, the appeal of this delightful dish extends beyond its taste. Butter Cauliflower serves as a perfect centerpiece for any meal, offering a burst of color and aroma that entices everyone at the table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this scrumptious cauliflower dish is sure to impress.
What is Butter Cauliflower?
Butter Cauliflower, inspired by the rich flavors of Indian cuisine, is a scrumptious vegetarian dish that features tender cauliflower florets bathed in a creamy, buttery sauce. This dish beautifully combines the subtle sweetness of butter with fragrant spices, making it a delightful option for anyone seeking a comforting yet vibrant meal. The cauliflower is typically cooked until perfectly tender and then coated in a luscious sauce made from butter, tomatoes, and an array of aromatic spices.
Whether you serve it with fluffy rice or as a standalone dish, Butter Cauliflower can easily entice any palate. Similar to other delicious recipes showcased on our blog, such as Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, this dish is all about creating layers of flavor that excite your taste buds.
With its balanced blend of richness and spice, Butter Cauliflower offers a hearty meal that appeals to both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy cauliflower while soaking in the comforting vibe that buttery dishes provide.

Ingredients for Butter Cauliflower:
For a delightful Butter Cauliflower dish bursting with flavor, gather the following 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
This recipe is perfect for comfort seekers and is reminiscent of hearty meals. If you enjoy the rich flavors of buttery dishes, you might also love Garlic Butter Chicken, which offers a cozy vibe just like this Butter Cauliflower. Enjoy making a warm bowl of goodness!
How to Prepare Butter Cauliflower:
To create a delightful Butter Cauliflower dish, start by preparing the cauliflower. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion, sautéing until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, letting them cook until fragrant. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine lemon juice, corn starch, ground cumin, turmeric, salt, and a tablespoon of garam masala.
Next, add this mixture to the skillet along with tomato paste, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne (if using). Cook for a couple of minutes, then stir in the cauliflower florets, coating them well with the spice mix. Pour in tomato sauce and vegetable broth, bringing it to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
Finally, stir in unsalted butter and heavy cream, allowing them to meld into a rich sauce. Serve this creamy goodness over basmati rice, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of whole-milk Greek yogurt. For a twist, check out this slow cooker garlic butter beef recipe for another comforting dish. For more detailed instructions, find the complete recipe at Dishing Out Health.
Health Benefits:
Butter cauliflower is not only delicious but also packs a nutritional punch. This dish, rich in vitamins C and K, supports your immune system and promotes bone health. Cauliflower is high in fiber, aiding digestion and helping maintain a healthy gut. Moreover, this versatile vegetable is low in calories, making butter cauliflower a great choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight while enjoying flavorful meals.
The healthy fats in the butter enhance the absorption of nutrients, allowing your body to fully benefit from the cauliflower’s abundance of antioxidants. For additional nourishment, consider adding some protein to your meal with a side of slow cooker garlic butter beef. This savory pairing not only increases satiety but also adds an indulgent flavor profile to your wholesome dish.
Incorporating butter cauliflower into your diet can lead to improved health outcomes and a delightful culinary experience!
Serving Suggestions for Butter Cauliflower:
When it comes to serving Butter Cauliflower, you have plenty of delicious options to elevate your meal. This rich and creamy dish pairs beautifully with fragrant basmati rice or fluffy quinoa, giving you a balanced bite. For a wholesome twist, serve it alongside a colorful winter vegetable salad with butternut squash. The crunchy textures and seasonal flavors will enhance the experience, making your Butter Cauliflower shine.
To create a hearty meal, consider accompanying it with grilled or roasted proteins, like garlic butter chicken. This adds a savory element that complements the creamy notes of the cauliflower. Additionally, naan or crusty bread can help soak up the delightful sauce, turning every bite into a comforting experience.
Finally, don’t shy away from garnishing your dish with fresh herbs or roasted nuts. These small additions can significantly elevate the flavor profile. Thus, whether you present Butter Cauliflower as a main dish or a side, the possibilities to enhance it are endless!
Storage Tips:
To keep your creamy butter cauliflower fresh and flavorful, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy it within 3-5 days for the best taste. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat gently. For a delightful pairing, add buttery baked onions to enhance the meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Butter Cauliflower?
Butter Cauliflower is a flavorful vegetarian dish that combines tender cauliflower florets with a rich, buttery sauce, often enhanced by spices and herbs. This creamy dish is inspired by Indian cuisine but can be adapted to suit various palates.
How do you make Butter Cauliflower?
To prepare Butter Cauliflower, sauté your cauliflower in butter until golden, then introduce spices like turmeric and cumin. Add cream or coconut milk for a luscious finish. Serve it garnished with fresh cilantro for an added touch of flavor.
Can Butter Cauliflower be made dairy-free?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of Butter Cauliflower by substituting butter with ghee or plant-based butter and using coconut milk instead of cream. This will maintain a creamy texture while being vegan-friendly.
What can I serve with Butter Cauliflower?
Butter Cauliflower pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or naan. You can also enjoy it as a side dish alongside protein-rich options like grilled chicken or tofu.
How long does Butter Cauliflower last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, Butter Cauliflower can typically last in the fridge for about 3-4 days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
Are there variations of Butter Cauliflower?
Absolutely! Variations may include adding peas, spinach, or even cashews for crunch. For a twist, try incorporating flavors from dishes like Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for a heartier option, blending the best of both worlds.
Print
Butter Cauliflower: Irresistibly Creamy and Delicious
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Butter Cauliflower, a delightful vegetarian dish featuring tender cauliflower florets simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting meal with basmati rice.
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 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 sub full-fat canned coconut milk
Basmati rice for serving
Fresh cilantro and whole-milk Greek yogurt for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, corn starch, ground cumin, 1/2 tsp of turmeric, 1 tsp of garam masala, and 1/2 tsp of salt to create a marinade.
- Toss the cauliflower florets in the marinade and let them sit for about 10 minutes.
- Heat 1 Tbsp of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and add the marinated cauliflower. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add 2 Tbsp of olive oil, then sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and freshly grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato paste, remaining turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and 2 tsp of garam masala, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
- Add tomato sauce and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Return the cauliflower to the pan, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the cauliflower is tender.
- Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk, cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve the Butter Cauliflower over basmati rice, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Notes
For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and omit the butter.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 390 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Keywords: Butter Cauliflower, vegetarian recipes, creamy cauliflower, Indian cuisine, healthy dinner


