How to Make Delicious Cauliflower Tandoori at Home

Imagine a dish that combines the earthy goodness of cauliflower with the explosive flavors of Indian spices—a vegan delight that's as gorgeous as it is delectable. Welcome to the world of Cauliflower Tandoori, a dish that's not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. Whether you’re a vegan, a food enthusiast, or a home cook eager to try something new, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss.

The Allure of Cauliflower Tandoori

Originating from the vibrant culinary traditions of India, tandoori dishes are typically cooked in a clay oven, or tandoor, which imparts a unique smoky flavor. Traditionally, tandoori recipes feature meats marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices. However, the versatility of cauliflower makes it a perfect canvas for this flavorful transformation. When marinated in spices and baked to perfection, cauliflower tandoori can rival its meaty counterparts, offering a delightful alternative for vegans and vegetarians.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how to prepare this dish, let's gather our ingredients. For this vegan cauliflower tandoori, you will need:

1 cauliflower

2/3 cup Greek-style yogurt (use a vegan alternative like coconut yogurt)

1 tbsp tikka masala spice blend

A thumb-sized piece of ginger

2 garlic cloves

½ tbsp oil (preferably olive or vegetable oil)

Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Prepping the Cauliflower

Begin by trimming the base of the cauliflower and slicing off the leaves. Chop the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. This ensures even cooking and allows each piece to soak up the delicious marinade.

Making the Tandoori Marinade

In a large bowl, combine the vegan Greek-style yogurt and tikka masala spice blend. Peel and finely grate the ginger and garlic, adding them to the bowl. Pour in ½ tbsp of oil and season with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well to create a vibrant, aromatic marinade.

Marinating the Cauliflower

Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and stir until they are thoroughly coated with the marinade. For the best results, cover the bowl and allow the cauliflower to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If possible, marinate overnight in the refrigerator to deepen the flavors.

Baking the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and spread the marinated cauliflower into a single layer. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and lightly charred around the edges. This gives the dish its characteristic tandoori texture and flavor.

Serving the Cauliflower Tandoori

Once the cauliflower is ready, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of freshness.

Notes

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cauliflower Tandoori

Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the cauliflower, the more intense the flavors will be. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better.

Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature. A high oven temperature helps achieve the perfect char while keeping the cauliflower tender inside.

Texture: For a crispier texture, you can broil the cauliflower for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

Cauliflower tandoori is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

On a Bed of Rice: Serve the cauliflower over steamed basmati rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.

In a Wrap: Stuff the cauliflower into a warm pita or naan bread with some fresh veggies and a drizzle of tahini sauce for a delicious wrap.

With a Side Salad: Pair it with a refreshing cucumber and mint salad to balance the spices.

Variations

For those who love experimenting, here are a few variations to consider:

Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.

Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like mint or coriander into the marinade for added depth of flavor.

Different Veggies: Try using other vegetables like broccoli or sweet potatoes in addition to cauliflower.

Keeping and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers (though we doubt you will!), store the cooled cauliflower in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the cauliflower with a splash of water or vegetable stock until piping hot.

Don't Waste Those Cauliflower Leaves

Cauliflower leaves are often discarded, but they are perfectly edible and delicious. Shred them and stir-fry with garlic, spring onions, and ginger for a quick side dish, or add them to stews in the last 5 minutes of cooking for an extra burst of green goodness.

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Your culinary adventure into the world of Cauliflower Tandoori is just the beginning.