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When it comes to tandoori dishes, chicken and paneer often steal the spotlight. However, if you’re looking for a vegetarian option that’s equally smoky and flavorful, look no further than Tandoori Cauliflower. This dish is a fantastic addition to any meal, offering a delicious and healthy alternative to the usual tandoori fare. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to make this mouthwatering dish at home.
Why Tandoori Cauliflower?
Cauliflower is an incredibly versatile vegetable that absorbs flavors beautifully, making it perfect for tandoori-style cooking. When marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, and then grilled to perfection, cauliflower transforms into a tender, flavorful dish with a delightful smoky char.
Ingredients
To make Tandoori Cauliflower, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 medium-sized cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup thick yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, chili powder, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well until smooth.
- Marinate the Cauliflower:
- Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate the cauliflower.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you don’t have a grill, you can also use an oven preheated to 425°F (220°C).
- Grill the Cauliflower:
- Thread the marinated cauliflower florets onto skewers or place them directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and has a nice char. If using an oven, place the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the cauliflower is cooked, transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side. The tangy lemon juice enhances the smoky flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
Serving Suggestions
Tandoori Cauliflower can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a side. It pairs wonderfully with naan bread, rice, or a simple salad. For a complete meal, serve it alongside other tandoori favorites like Tandoori Chicken or Paneer Tikka.
Tips for Perfect Tandoori Cauliflower
- Marinate Longer: If time allows, marinate the cauliflower for a few hours or even overnight. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness.
- Uniform Florets: Cut the cauliflower into evenly sized florets to ensure they cook uniformly.
- High Heat: Cooking at high heat is crucial for achieving that signature tandoori char and smokiness.
Conclusion
Tandoori Cauliflower is a delightful and healthy dish that brings all the flavors of traditional tandoori cooking to your table. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to suit your spice preferences and is sure to impress both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious taste of tandoori with a nutritious twist!