Name: Butter Cauliflower Curry with Spiced Tomato Sauce and Coconut Cream 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 (or 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 (can substitute full-fat canned coconut milk); Basmati rice; Fresh cilantro; Whole-milk Greek yogurt

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 12 reviews

I am so excited to share my favorite Butter Cauliflower Curry with Spiced Tomato Sauce and Coconut Cream Recipe with you! This dish captures everything I love about comfort food with its rich, velvety sauce bursting with warm spices, perfectly tender cauliflower, and a subtle creamy sweetness from coconut cream. It’s one of those meals that feels both indulgent and wholesome, and it never fails to impress whether I’m cooking for myself or entertaining friends. The complexity of the spiced tomato sauce paired with the luscious coconut cream creates an unforgettable curry I keep coming back to.

Why You’ll Love This Butter Cauliflower Curry with Spiced Tomato Sauce and Coconut Cream Recipe

What really makes this recipe stand out for me is its incredible flavor balance. The cauliflower gets beautifully charred and crisp-tender, giving it a lovely texture contrast against the luscious spiced tomato sauce enriched with coconut cream. Each bite delivers layers of aromatic spices like cumin, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, and just a touch of cayenne, deepening the warmth without overpowering the natural sweetness of the tomato and coconut. It’s this gorgeous interplay of flavors that keeps me reaching for seconds.

Aside from the delicious tastes, I love how approachable this Butter Cauliflower Curry with Spiced Tomato Sauce and Coconut Cream Recipe is in the kitchen. The steps are simple, and the ingredients are straightforward, many of which I often already have in my pantry. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal but elegant enough to serve guests when I want to impress without stress. Plus, it pairs perfectly with fluffy basmati rice and a little dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to brighten it up. This recipe never fails to bring comfort and joy to the table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a black pan filled with thick reddish-orange curry sauce. Inside the sauce are several browned cauliflower florets, covered partially by the sauce and sprinkled with fresh green cilantro leaves. The sauce has a smooth texture with some visible spices, and the cauliflower pieces vary in size, appearing tender and well cooked. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Butter Cauliflower Curry with Spiced Tomato Sauce and Coconut Cream Recipe lies in its simple but carefully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in layering flavor, building texture, or adding vibrant color to the dish.

Fresh lemon juice: Adds acidity to balance the creaminess and brighten the dish.
Corn starch: Helps the spices stick to the cauliflower and create a silky sauce.
Ground cumin: Brings smoky warmth to the curry’s base flavor.
Ground turmeric: Provides earthiness and a lovely golden hue.
Garam masala: A fragrant spice blend that builds savory depth.
Salt: Essential to elevate all the flavors perfectly.
Olive oil: For sautéing the cauliflower and aromatics lightly and healthfully.
Cauliflower florets: The star vegetable offering a hearty and mild bite.
Unsalted butter: Enhances richness and rounds out the spices.
Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and body to the sauce foundation.
Garlic cloves: Infuses a warm, pungent undertone.
Freshly grated ginger: Brings a zesty sparkle to every mouthful.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
Paprika: Offers mild smoky notes and vibrant color.
Ground cinnamon: A subtle hint of warmth that enhances the earthy spices.
Cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a gentle kick for those who like heat.
Tomato sauce: Forms the luscious, tangy base of the curry sauce.
Vegetable broth: Deepens the flavor and thins the sauce just right.
Heavy cream or full-fat canned coconut milk: Provides that creamy, dreamy finish.
Basmati rice: The perfect fluffy bed to soak up every bit of sauce.
Fresh cilantro and Greek yogurt: For a fresh, cooling garnish that adds color and contrast.

Directions

Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together fresh lemon juice, corn starch, ground cumin, half of the turmeric, half of the garam masala, and half of the salt. This mixture will be used to season and coat the cauliflower, helping the spices really cling and infuse the vegetable.

Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cauliflower florets and cook them while tossing occasionally until they are browned in spots and starting to soften, about 7 to 8 minutes. This initial browning adds lovely caramelized flavor.

Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium and transfer the cauliflower to the lemon-spice mixture bowl. Toss well to coat every floret with the seasoning. Return the coated cauliflower to the skillet and continue cooking for another 7 to 8 minutes until the cauliflower develops some charred marks but remains crisp-tender. Once done, transfer the florets to a separate bowl to rest.

Step 4: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and the butter to the skillet. Sauté the finely chopped yellow onion until it becomes translucent and soft, about 8 minutes. This gentle cooking brings out sweetness to balance the spices.

Step 5: Stir in the minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, and tomato paste. Cook this mixture for 2 minutes until the aromas bloom and the paste deepens in color.

Step 6: Add the remaining turmeric, garam masala, and salt, along with paprika, cinnamon, and optional cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, so the spices toast just enough to release their essential oils.

Step 7: Pour in the tomato sauce and vegetable broth, then bring the mixture up to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer, stir in the cream or coconut milk, and return the cauliflower to the skillet. Let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes or until the sauce thickens beautifully and coats every bite of cauliflower.

Step 8: When ready to serve, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and a generous dollop of whole-milk Greek yogurt. Serve hot over freshly cooked basmati rice and enjoy the comforting warmth!

Servings and Timing

This Butter Cauliflower Curry with Spiced Tomato Sauce and Coconut Cream Recipe makes roughly 4 hearty servings, perfect for a family dinner or leftovers the next day. The preparation time is around 15 minutes to get all the ingredients ready, while the cooking takes approximately 50 minutes, including the browning of cauliflower and simmering of the sauce. Altogether, the total time clocks in at about 1 hour and 5 minutes. The dish is best enjoyed immediately but can also rest briefly before serving to allow the flavors to meld even more deeply.

How to Serve This Butter Cauliflower Curry with Spiced Tomato Sauce and Coconut Cream Recipe

A round white bowl filled with a base layer of white rice, topped with several pieces of orange-colored cooked cauliflower covered in a thick orange sauce. On one side, a dollop of white creamy sauce is visible, blending slightly into the orange sauce. Two pieces of folded flatbread with a browned, toasted surface are placed leaning against the side of the bowl, partially resting in the sauce. Bright green coriander leaves are scattered on top as garnish. A spoon with a blue and green marbled handle is placed inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I love serving this curry over a bed of steaming basmati rice because the fragrant rice soaks up the thick, spiced sauce perfectly. For an extra special touch, spoon a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt or a swirl of coconut cream right on top to temper the heat and add freshness. Garnishing with a handful of chopped fresh cilantro always makes the plate look vibrant and inviting.

This dish shines whether you’re serving it as a comforting weeknight meal or on a festive dinner table. I’ve found it pairs beautifully with crisp cucumber raita or simple roasted vegetables to complement the warm spices without overshadowing the curry. When it comes to beverages, a chilled Riesling or a light-bodied white wine balances the creaminess and spices beautifully, but I also adore pairing it with a ginger or mint iced tea for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.

For plating, I typically ladle generous portions of cauliflower with sauce onto the center of the plate, surrounded by a fluffy rice mound. This allows everyone to customize each bite. Because this curry tastes best hot, serve it fresh from the stove, but it can also be enjoyed warm or reheated gently later on. Portions of about 1 to 1 ½ cups of curry per person are satisfying, especially alongside some simple sides.

Variations

One of the aspects I love most about this Butter Cauliflower Curry with Spiced Tomato Sauce and Coconut Cream Recipe is how adaptable it is. If you want to switch things up, you can substitute the cauliflower for other vegetables like broccoli, sweet potatoes, or even chickpeas for added protein. Each adds a unique texture and flavor while maintaining the signature curry warmth.

If you’re looking for a vegan or dairy-free version, simply use canned coconut milk in place of heavy cream and swap butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan margarine or coconut oil. This switch doesn’t compromise the creamy texture or deep flavor, making it a favorite among my vegan friends.

For more intense flavor, try toasting the spices whole before grinding or add a splash of tamarind or mango chutney for a sweet-tart twist. I’ve also experimented with slow-cooker versions by preparing the cauliflower and sauce separately, then combining and simmering low and slow for an even deeper melding of flavors. No matter the method, this recipe always delivers comfort with a punch of aromatic spices.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Butter Cauliflower Curry with Spiced Tomato Sauce and Coconut Cream Recipe, store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids work best as they preserve flavor without absorbing odors. The curry will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days. Before refrigerating, I let it cool slightly at room temperature but never leave it out for more than two hours to ensure food safety.

Freezing

This curry freezes wonderfully, which I always appreciate for busy weeks. To freeze, portion the cooled curry into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to keep the texture intact. Freezing can mellow the flavors slightly, so I often adjust the seasoning after reheating.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat this curry is gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of water, broth, or coconut milk while reheating helps loosen the sauce and revives its creaminess. Avoid reheating in the microwave for long periods, as this can make the cauliflower mushy and unevenly warm. Reheating slowly preserves the texture of the cauliflower and the vibrancy of the spices so every bite feels fresh and satisfying.

FAQs

Can I make this Butter Cauliflower Curry with Spiced Tomato Sauce and Coconut Cream Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses no wheat-based ingredients. Just be sure to check that your vegetable broth and tomato sauce are labeled gluten-free if buying pre-packaged versions, to avoid any hidden gluten.

What can I use instead of heavy cream if I want a dairy-free option?

Full-fat canned coconut milk is my go-to substitute for heavy cream in this recipe. It lends a similar rich texture and pairs beautifully with the curry spices. Other plant-based cream alternatives can also work, but coconut milk maintains the authentic flavor best.

Is it possible to make this recipe spicier?

Definitely! You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add fresh chopped chili peppers according to your heat preference. Adding a pinch of red chili flakes while simmering the sauce also boosts the spice level without altering the dish’s balance.

Can I prepare the spice mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the dry spices and store them in an airtight jar for up to two weeks. This makes the cooking process even quicker, especially on busy nights. Just add the fresh ingredients like garlic, ginger, and tomato paste fresh for maximum flavor.

What side dishes go best with this curry?

I often serve the curry with basmati rice, which absorbs the sauce beautifully. Raita, naan bread, or lightly roasted vegetables such as carrots or green beans also complement the rich, spiced flavors wonderfully, making for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

I genuinely hope you enjoy making and savoring this Butter Cauliflower Curry with Spiced Tomato Sauce and Coconut Cream Recipe as much as I do. It’s one of those dishes that comforts the soul with every bite, offers incredible depth of flavor, and is surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this curry is sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. Dive in, experiment, and most importantly, delight in the deliciousness!