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Creamy Butter Cauliflower – Vegetarian Butter Chicken Style Comfort Dish with Rich Spiced Tomato Sauce

Creamy Butter Cauliflower is a comforting, plant-forward take on the classic butter chicken—all the warmth, creaminess, and bold spices you love, made entirely vegetarian. Tender cauliflower florets simmer in a luscious tomato-based sauce infused with garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, and cumin, then finished with creaminess for that signature velvety texture. This dish is perfect for cozy dinners, meatless nights, and crowd-pleasing comfort food. It’s deeply flavorful, satisfying, and easy to make at home—no alcohol, no pork, and simple pantry spices doing all the heavy lifting. Serve it over fluffy basmati rice with a cool spoon of yogurt (or plant-based yogurt) for a complete, soul-warming meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 large head cauliflower cut into bite-sized florets
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
  • 1 can tomatoes crushed or finely diced
Spices & Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder adjust to taste
  • Salt to taste
Creamy Finish
  • ½ cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • 1 tablespoon butter or plant-based butter
To Serve
  • Fresh cilantro chopped
  • Cooked basmati rice
  • Plain yogurt or plant-based yogurt
  • These ingredients create a dish that’s rich aromatic, gently spiced, and irresistibly creamy.

Equipment

  • Large pot or deep skillet
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

Step 1:
  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
Step 2:
  1. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
Step 3:
  1. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4:
  1. Add the garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, and salt.
Step 5:
  1. Stir well and cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
Step 6:
  1. Add the canned tomatoes and stir to combine.
Step 7:
  1. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Step 8:
  1. Add the cauliflower florets and toss to coat in the sauce.
Step 9:
  1. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender.
Step 10:
  1. Stir in the cream (or coconut cream) and butter (or plant-based butter).
Step 11:
  1. Simmer uncovered for 5 minutes until the sauce becomes rich and creamy.
Step 12:
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 13:
  1. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
Step 14:
  1. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat
Add a splash of water or cream if needed
🥄 Variations
Extra protein: Add chickpeas or tofu
Spicier: Increase chili powder or add chili flakes
Ultra creamy: Add an extra splash of cream
Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and plant-based butter
Veggie boost: Add peas or spinach at the end
Each variation keeps the dish comforting, flexible, and satisfying.
❓ 10 FAQs
Does this taste like butter chicken?
Yes—creamy, spiced, and comforting.
Is it spicy?
Mild, easily adjustable.
Can kids eat this?
Yes, very family-friendly.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, use coconut cream and plant-based butter.
Does cauliflower get mushy?
No, if cooked until just tender.
Can I meal prep this?
Absolutely—it reheats beautifully.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, up to 2 months.
What should I serve it with?
Basmati rice or flatbread.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, perfect for batch cooking.
🏁 Conclusion
Creamy Butter Cauliflower delivers everything you love about classic butter chicken—without the meat. Rich, spiced, and comforting, it’s a vegetarian showstopper that’s easy enough for weeknights and impressive enough for guests.
One bite, and you won’t miss the chicken.