Butter Cauliflower

Butter Cauliflower is a rich, comforting, and flavor-packed vegetarian twist on the classic Indian dish, Butter Chicken. Instead of chicken, tender cauliflower florets take center stage—beautifully roasted until slightly charred, then simmered in a velvety tomato-cream sauce infused with warming spices like garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and ginger. Served over fluffy basmati rice with fresh cilantro and cooling yogurt, this Butter Cauliflower recipe is the perfect meatless main for cozy nights, meal prepping, or impressing your guests with a restaurant-style meal at home.

This dish offers everything you crave in a classic Indian curry—creamy texture, deep spices, and irresistible richness—but in a fully vegetarian form that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re looking to add more plant-forward meals to your weekly rotation or simply craving something indulgent yet wholesome, Butter Cauliflower brings the best of both worlds to your table.

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What Is Butter Cauliflower?

Butter Cauliflower is a modern vegetarian interpretation of Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani), one of India’s most beloved dishes. Instead of poultry, cauliflower is roasted or pan-seared for that satisfying bite, then coated in a luscious, buttery tomato gravy enriched with cream and aromatic spices.

This Butter Cauliflower recipe stays true to the spirit of the original dish:

• Comforting and luxurious
• A perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy
• Silky sauce clinging to every roasted vegetable bite
• Ideal with rice, naan, or both

The result is a dish that feels indulgent but remains lighter and nutrient-rich thanks to cauliflower’s fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins.

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Why You’ll Love This Butter Cauliflower Recipe

• It is completely vegetarian with the option to make it vegan
• Mild spices make it family-friendly but still flavorful
• Easy enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for guests
• Reheats beautifully for lunches or meal prep
• Customizable: add chickpeas or paneer for more protein

If you’re trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet without sacrificing comfort and flavor, this Butter Cauliflower will become a must-make!

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Ingredients for Butter Cauliflower

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish at home:

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

1x | 2x | 3x

• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 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 cauliflower, cut into florets
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp freshly grated ginger (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
• 2 Tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or full-fat canned coconut milk for dairy-free)
• Basmati rice for serving
• Fresh cilantro and whole-milk Greek yogurt for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Cauliflower

In a large bowl, combine the lemon juice, cornstarch, cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon each of turmeric, garam masala, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Cauliflower

Heat 1 Tbsp of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the cauliflower, tossing occasionally, until browned in spots and beginning to soften (7–8 minutes). Transfer to the bowl with the spice mixture, toss to coat, then return to the skillet. Continue cooking another 7–8 minutes until charred and crisp-tender. Remove and keep warm.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Add remaining oil and butter to the skillet. Stir in onions and cook until softened, about 8 minutes. Add garlic, ginger, and tomato paste; cook 2 minutes.

Step 4: Add Spices and Simmer

Add remaining turmeric, remaining garam masala, salt, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne. Cook 1 minute more. Pour in tomato sauce and vegetable broth, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat and stir in cream.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Return cauliflower to the skillet. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the cauliflower.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon Butter Cauliflower over basmati rice and garnish with cilantro and a dollop of yogurt.

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Recipe Tips for the Best Butter Cauliflower

• Brown the cauliflower: Browning adds depth of flavor and prevents mushiness.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch coating: It helps the cauliflower develop that irresistible crispy edge.
• Let the sauce simmer: Slow cooking enhances richness and thickens naturally.
• Salt in layers: This builds flavor gradually and evenly.

With these easy techniques, the sauce becomes silky, rich, and restaurant-worthy.

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Variations & Ingredient Substitutions

Butter Cauliflower is flexible. Here are fun ways to switch things up:

• Make it vegan: Use coconut milk instead of cream and plant-based butter.
• Add protein: Chickpeas, paneer, or tofu can bulk up the meal.
• Make it spicier: Add more cayenne or a pinch of red chili powder.
• Add veggies: Spinach, peas, or roasted sweet potato make great additions.
• Make it nutty: Add ground cashews or cashew cream for a richer sauce.

The dish adapts beautifully while keeping that signature butter curry flavor.

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What to Serve with Butter Cauliflower

• Steamed basmati rice or jasmine rice
• Garlic naan or warm chapati
• Fresh cucumber salad
• Mango chutney or lime pickle
• Roasted chickpeas for crunch

Whether you serve one or several sides, Butter Cauliflower steals the show.

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Storage & Meal Prep

This recipe reheats beautifully, making it ideal for several meals.

• Refrigerate: Store up to 4 days in an airtight container
• Freeze: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much

The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even better!

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Nutrition Snapshot

(Estimated per serving; does not include rice)

• Calories: 325
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 7g

Butter Cauliflower offers a filling and deeply satisfying meal that still packs vegetables as the star ingredient.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Butter Cauliflower spicy?

Not very. The heat is mild, but you can adjust according to preference with cayenne or chili powder.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Swap the butter for vegan butter and use coconut milk instead of cream.

Can I roast the cauliflower instead of pan-searing?

Absolutely! Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes until charred. This adds even more caramelization.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, but thaw first and pat dry so it browns instead of steaming.

Can I use this sauce for other vegetables?

Try it with broccoli, chickpeas, potatoes, paneer, or tofu—it’s beautifully versatile.

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Why This Recipe Works

This Butter Cauliflower recipe stands out because it uses smart cooking techniques:

• Browning the cauliflower boosts flavor
• A balance of acid (lemon), spices, and richness creates complexity
• The sauce layers aromatics + spices + cream for a smooth finish

The result tastes like you ordered from your favorite Indian restaurant—but homemade and budget-friendly.

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How to Make Butter Cauliflower Part of Your Weekly Menu

This dish works beautifully for:

• Meatless Mondays
• Meal prep lunches
• Cozy night-in dinners
• Vegetarian dinner parties
• High-flavor, low-effort meals

Pair it with other Indian favorites like samosas, dal, or garlic flatbread for a complete feast.

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Final Thoughts

Butter Cauliflower is more than just a vegetarian alternative to Butter Chicken—it’s a star dish in its own right. With tender-charred cauliflower and a silky, spiced tomato-cream sauce, every bite is packed with warmth, comfort, and satisfying texture.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of Indian cuisine or trying it for the first time at home, this recipe is approachable, crowd-pleasing, and filled with deep flavor. Its versatility makes it perfect for both weeknights and special occasions. Serve it with rice, naan, and a sprinkle of cilantro to turn a simple vegetable into the highlight of your dinner table.

Save this recipe to make again and again—your kitchen will smell amazing and your family will ask for seconds!