Name: Butter Cauliflower Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Indian
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 (substitute ground ginger); 2 Tbsp. tomato paste; 1 tsp. paprika; 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon; Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional); 1 can (8 oz.) tomato sauce; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream (substitute full-fat canned coconut milk); Basmati rice; Fresh cilantro; Whole-milk Greek yogurt

Butter Cauliflower is hands-down one of my all-time favorite ways to bring the deep, comforting flavors of classic Indian cuisine to the dinner table—minus the meat but with every bit as much rich, crave-worthy flavor. Smoky, tender cauliflower soaks up a velvety spiced cream sauce that’s just as warming and satisfying as any restaurant-style buttery curry. It’s likely to become your new go-to vegetarian main, whether you’re treating yourself on a weeknight or entertaining friends with something showstopping and irresistible.

Butter Cauliflower Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Butter Cauliflower lies in its handful of simple, vivid ingredients—each one has a distinct role, whether it’s lending a punch of savoriness, a creamy mouthfeel, or that bright pop of color you can’t resist. Gather these pantry and produce staples to orchestrate an explosion of flavors right in your own kitchen.

Lemon juice: Adds a sunny tang that wakes up all the flavors and keeps the dish feeling fresh.
Corn starch: Just a little acts as a light coating for the cauliflower, helping it crisp up and hold onto the delicious sauce.
Ground cumin: Brings a foundational earthy warmth that deepens the whole dish.
Ground turmeric: Both for color and earthy, peppery flavor, turmeric is that golden touch in Butter Cauliflower.
Garam masala: This classic Indian spice blend offers a heady mix of sweet and savory notes—critical for capturing that signature flavor.
Salt: Essential for flavor balance, making every other ingredient pop.
Olive oil: For browning the cauliflower and building the sauce—choose a mild one for the best flavor base.
Cauliflower: The star! Cut into florets, it becomes sweet, nutty, and absolutely substantial when cooked this way.
Unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and that luxurious buttery depth you expect in any “butter” curry.
Yellow onion: Sautéed until soft, onions melt into the sauce to give it body and sweetness.
Garlic cloves: Infuses the sauce with a wonderful savory depth.
Ginger: Freshly grated is ideal, bringing peppery zing; ground works in a pinch for those quick nights.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the base with bold, concentrated tomato flavor.
Paprika: Adds a gentle sweetness and gorgeous color.
Ground cinnamon: Just a whisper, but it’s there to add a secret pop of warmth.
Cayenne pepper: Optional, but if you love a little heat, this is your friend.
Tomato sauce: Forms the foundation of the sauce, giving it a lush, velvety consistency.
Vegetable broth: Adds flavor and thins the sauce to the perfect texture for simmering cauliflower.
Heavy cream: Or use full-fat canned coconut milk for a dairy-free twist—it’s what transforms the sauce into silk.
Basmati rice: Fragrant, fluffy rice is the classic partner and the perfect canvas for all that flavorful sauce.
Fresh cilantro and Greek yogurt: For garnish—these cool and brighten up every bite.

How to Make Butter Cauliflower

Step 1: Mix the Cauliflower Coating

Start by combining the lemon juice, corn starch, ground cumin, and half of your turmeric, garam masala, and salt in a large bowl. This creates a super flavorful, tangy spice mix that will coat the cauliflower perfectly, setting the stage for flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Sear the Cauliflower

Heat a tablespoon of oil in your largest skillet over medium-high heat. Add your cauliflower florets and cook, tossing every so often, until they’re browned in places and just beginning to soften—about 7 to 8 minutes. The goal is to get those toasty, golden bits, which make your Butter Cauliflower taste extra savory and satisfying.

Step 3: Toss and Char

Reduce the heat to medium and move your cauliflower into the spice bowl. Toss thoroughly, making sure every floret is evenly coated with that vibrant mixture. Return the seasoned cauliflower to your skillet for another 7 to 8 minutes. Let it get deliciously charred on the edges while staying crisp-tender inside. Transfer the finished cauliflower to a bowl—don’t worry, it’ll return soon!

Step 4: Build a Deeply Flavored Sauce

Add the rest of the oil and all the butter straight into your skillet (don’t clean it—the flavorful bits left behind are pure gold!). Drop in the chopped onion and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until soft and translucent. Stir in your garlic, ginger, and tomato paste and let it all sizzle for 2 minutes. The fragrance at this point is pure magic.

Step 5: Spice and Simmer

Sprinkle in the remaining turmeric, garam masala, salt, plus the paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne. Stir and let the spices melt into the mix for 1 minute, then pour in the tomato sauce and vegetable broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Step 6: Creamy Finale and Cauliflower Reunion

Now it’s time for the magic: Stir in the cream (or coconut milk) until the sauce is luscious and creamy. Return your browned, spice-crusted cauliflower to the skillet. Let everything gently simmer—uncovered—for about 15 minutes, until the sauce thickens and glazes each cauliflower floret.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Spoon the Butter Cauliflower over fluffy basmati rice, top with a refreshing scoop of Greek yogurt, and don’t be shy with the fresh cilantro. The contrast of hot, fragrant curry and cool, creamy toppings is pure bliss.

How to Serve Butter Cauliflower

Garnishes

When it comes to garnishing Butter Cauliflower, don’t skip the basics—a generous shower of fresh cilantro and a creamy dollop of Greek yogurt. Both bring a cool freshness that balances the complex spice, while the green pops beautifully against the golden sauce. For an extra restaurant-style finish, you can even drizzle a touch more cream across the top before serving.

Side Dishes

For a well-rounded meal, have your Butter Cauliflower alongside warm basmati rice or fluffy naan bread to mop up every last bit of sauce. If you’re feeling extra festive, a crisp cucumber salad or a simple side of roasted chickpeas adds a contrast in texture and a welcome boost of protein.

Creative Ways to Present

Take Butter Cauliflower beyond the expected: try piling it into warm naan as a hearty wrap, or serve it over baked potatoes for a cozy twist. You can also spoon it into small bowls over rice for a fun, individualized meal, or even top with toasted cashews for a bit of crunch and added elegance at the dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Butter Cauliflower is a gift you’ll love—just transfer cooled curry to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making every reheated bowl taste even more irresistible.

Freezing

If you want to freeze Butter Cauliflower, let it cool completely and portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. It holds up well in the freezer for up to 2 months. For the best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat Butter Cauliflower, microwave individual servings in 30-second bursts, stirring occasionally, or gently rewarm in a pot over low heat on the stovetop. If the sauce has thickened, splash in a little broth or water to loosen it up—and don’t forget a fresh sprinkle of cilantro before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Butter Cauliflower vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the butter for vegan butter or a drizzle of olive oil, and use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream. Omit the yogurt or choose a plant-based alternative for the garnish.

Is Butter Cauliflower spicy?

The dish has layers of warmth from its spices, but it isn’t inherently spicy-hot. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can leave out the cayenne; for more heat, simply add a touch extra. It’s easily customizable to your taste!

What type of rice works best?

Basmati rice is traditional for Butter Cauliflower because it’s aromatic and light, soaking up the sauce perfectly. However, jasmine or even brown rice work well if that’s what you have on hand.

Can I roast the cauliflower instead of pan-frying?

Definitely! Toss the cauliflower florets in the oil and spice mix, spread them on a baking sheet, and roast at 425°F until golden and crisp-tender. This method is hands-off and delivers great texture for Butter Cauliflower.

Do I have to use all the listed spices?

While each spice contributes to the signature flavor, if you’re missing one or two (especially garam masala), you can still make a delicious Butter Cauliflower. Adjust to what you have, but don’t skip the cumin or turmeric.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to fall in love with a new favorite, Butter Cauliflower is here to deliver the bold flavors and cozy textures you crave—without fuss or compromise. Give this recipe a spot on your weeknight or special-occasion table, and I promise, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again!