Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure with one of the most indulgent vegetarian dishes? Butter Cauliflower, also known as Methi Malai Gobhi, serves as a delightful fusion of creamy textures and robust flavors. This dish effortlessly transforms humble cauliflower into a gourmet experience, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts and home cooks alike.
Moreover, its buttery sauce, enriched with spices, invites you to savor every bite, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or seeking weeknight comfort food. With captivating aromas wafting through your kitchen, Butter Cauliflower effortlessly elevates your meals, promising satisfaction and joy with each serving.
What is Butter Cauliflower?
Butter Cauliflower, often hailed as a vegetarian version of the beloved Butter Chicken, is a rich and creamy dish that showcases the delightful flavors of cauliflower. This recipe typically involves sautéing cauliflower florets in a buttery sauce infused with spices, creating a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. The fusion of textures and tastes makes it an appealing option for both vegetarians and those looking to add more plant-based dishes to their diet.
To enhance your culinary journey with Butter Cauliflower, you might want to explore other complementary recipes, such as Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. This dish combines well with the creamy goodness of Butter Cauliflower, making for a pleasant dining experience.
With its versatility, Butter Cauliflower can be served alongside rice, naan, or even a fresh salad, offering a delicious way to enjoy this delightful vegetable. Embrace the creamy allure and make this dish a staple in your repertoire!

Ingredients:
For a deliciously creamy and flavorful Butter Cauliflower, 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 (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
This Butter Cauliflower pairs excellently with fragrant basmati rice. To enhance your culinary skills, consider exploring Quick and Easy Homemade Butter Chicken for a delightful meal pairing.
Print
Butter Cauliflower
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich and flavorful Butter Cauliflower, a delightful vegetarian dish that’s a perfect blend of spices, creamy texture, and tender cauliflower florets.
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 bowl, mix lemon juice, corn starch, cumin, 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp garam masala, and 1/2 tsp salt to create a marinade.
- Toss the cauliflower florets in the marinade and set aside for 15 minutes.
- In a large pan, heat 1 Tbsp olive oil over medium heat and add the marinated cauliflower. Cook for 7-10 minutes until slightly golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add remaining olive oil, then sauté the onion until translucent. Add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato paste, remaining turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Add tomato sauce and vegetable broth, bringing to a simmer.
- Reduce heat, return the cauliflower to the pan, and let cook for 15 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk, remaining garam masala, and salt to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot over basmati rice, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Notes
For a vegan version, swap heavy cream with coconut milk and omit yogurt. Adjust spice levels according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: sautéing
- Cuisine: Indian
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 curry, creamy cauliflower, Indian cuisine, plant-based recipes
How to Prepare Butter Cauliflower:
To make a delightful Butter Cauliflower, start by preparing your ingredients. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, and half a teaspoon of cumin. Set this aside. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté one finely chopped yellow onion until golden, then add minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and a pinch of cayenne (if desired).
Next, add the cauliflower florets along with the reserved spiced lemon mixture. Gradually add in 8 ounces of canned tomato sauce and 2 cups of vegetable broth. Allow this to simmer until the cauliflower is tender, approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Finish by stirring in 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, ½ cup of heavy cream, and a teaspoon of turmeric and garam masala each. For an extra flavor boost, check out this Butter Cauliflower recipe.
Serve hot over basmati rice, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of whole-milk Greek yogurt. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a creamy and aromatic twist on traditional cauliflower recipes. For more delicious twists, explore this Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine.
Serving Suggestions for Butter Cauliflower:
Butter cauliflower is a versatile dish that shines when served with fresh naan or basmati rice. The rich, creamy consistency complements these sides beautifully. You can also pair it with grilled meats or a hearty salad for a balanced meal. For a delightful twist, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavor. Another fantastic option is to serve it alongside Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, where the pasta absorbs the vibrant butter sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
For a lighter experience, serve your butter cauliflower with a side of sautéed greens or roasted vegetables. This not only adds nutrients but also color to your plate. Additionally, adding a dollop of yogurt can provide a refreshing contrast. With these ideas, butter cauliflower transcends being just a side dish, becoming a star on its own. Enjoy experimenting!
Nutrition Benefits of Butter Cauliflower:
Butter cauliflower, a delightful vegetarian dish, offers numerous nutrition benefits that make it a great addition to any meal. This dish features cauliflower, a cruciferous vegetable high in vitamins C, K, and B6, along with folate and fiber. These nutrients contribute to improved immune function, bone health, and digestive wellness.
Additionally, incorporating butter can enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins found in cauliflower. The creamy texture not only creates a comforting dish but also provides healthy fats essential for brain health. To elevate the dish even further, consider pairing it with protein-rich sides like grilled salmon—similar to the tasty Miso Butter Salmon recipe found here. By enjoying butter cauliflower, you not only savor a flavorful meal but also support overall health with its robust nutritional profile. So, switch up your veggie routine and enjoy this simple, nutrient-rich dish!
Storage Tips:
To keep your butter cauliflower fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 3-4 days. If you want to save leftovers for longer, consider freezing portions. Additionally, for those who enjoy unique flavor combinations, try making a recipe like miso butter salmon for a delightful twist!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Butter Cauliflower?
Butter Cauliflower is a delicious vegetarian dish that brings the creamy essence of butter to tender cauliflower florets. The dish is often infused with spices and herbs to create a comforting, flavorful experience that can serve as a delightful side or main course.
How is Butter Cauliflower prepared?
To make Butter Cauliflower, cauliflower is typically sautéed in a rich mixture of butter, garlic, and spices. The gentle cooking process allows the vegetables to absorb the flavors while remaining tender-crisp. You can also refer to our delicious recipe for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine, which combines similar buttery goodness in a different context.
Can I add other vegetables to Butter Cauliflower?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Butter Cauliflower by adding other vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers. These additions will not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful burst of color to your dish.
Is Butter Cauliflower suitable for vegan diets?
To adapt Butter Cauliflower to vegan diets, consider substituting regular butter with plant-based butter or olive oil. This small change allows you to enjoy the same creamy texture and flavor without using animal products.
What can I serve with Butter Cauliflower?
Butter Cauliflower pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grains like rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal, or use it as a flavorful side dish for rotis and curries. Its rich taste makes it versatile for various cuisines.
How can I store leftover Butter Cauliflower?
If you have leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a pan or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish again.