Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cauliflower (gobi) | 2 cups |
| Garlic – sliced | 4 cloves |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) – roasted, crushed | 2 teaspoons |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder or red chilli powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Anardana Powder (Pomegranate Seed Powder) | 1/4 cup |
| Pomegranate molasses or honey (optional but recommended) | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh herbs (like basil or herbs of choice) | Handful |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time
| Task | Time (in mins) |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 |
| Cook Time | 25 |
| Total Time | 40 |
Servings: 4
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (392°F). This will allow the cauliflower to roast to perfection, ensuring that it caramelizes beautifully.
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Prepare the Cauliflower: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cauliflower florets with sliced garlic and olive oil. Add salt according to taste and ensure the florets are evenly coated with the oil and garlic. This step adds depth of flavor, as the olive oil infuses the cauliflower with richness while the garlic enhances the aroma.
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Roast the Cauliflower (First Round): Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets evenly on a baking tray. Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on the cauliflower during this step – you want it to just start softening but not fully cooked.
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Add Spices for the Final Flavor: After the first round of roasting, remove the tray from the oven. Sprinkle the roasted cauliflower with crushed cumin seeds, coriander powder, and black pepper (or red chili powder if you prefer a spicier kick). Mix well to ensure the spices coat the florets evenly.
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Roast the Cauliflower (Second Round): Place the tray back into the oven for another 10-12 minutes. This second round of roasting allows the cauliflower to fully cook and turn golden brown, with caramelized edges. The spices will toast slightly, enhancing the aroma and flavor.
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Final Garnish and Serve: Once the cauliflower is roasted to perfection, take it out of the oven. Transfer it to a serving dish. For a burst of color and flavor, garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds and herbs of your choice (like basil). Drizzle with pomegranate molasses or honey for a sweet tang that balances the savory elements.
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Enjoy: Serve the roasted cauliflower immediately. This dish can be enjoyed as a light and flavorful starter or as a side dish alongside traditional dishes like Panchmel Dal and Phulkas for a hearty weekday meal.
Serving Suggestions
The Roasted Cauliflower is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving ideas:
- As a Starter: Serve this as a healthy and vibrant appetizer at dinner parties or family meals. The sweetness from the pomegranate molasses combined with the warmth of spices is sure to delight the taste buds.
- As a Side Dish: Pair the roasted cauliflower with traditional Indian curries like Panchmel Dal and whole wheat Phulkas for a wholesome, nutritious meal.
- As a Salad Topper: You can even toss the roasted cauliflower into your favorite salad for an added punch of flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving (approx) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180-200 kcal |
| Protein | 3-4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15-20 g |
| Fat | 10-12 g |
| Fiber | 5-6 g |
| Sugars | 5-7 g |
| Vitamin C | 70-80% of daily value |
| Vitamin K | 20-25% of daily value |
| Iron | 10-12% of daily value |
| Calcium | 5-8% of daily value |
The Roasted Cauliflower Recipe offers a fantastic balance of flavors with its roasted cumin, coriander, and black pepper spices enhanced by a sweet-tangy drizzle of pomegranate molasses or honey. Rich in vitamins and fiber, this healthy and easy-to-make dish will elevate any meal, be it a weekday dinner or a festive occasion.
For a unique twist, you can experiment with different herbs and even add a sprinkle of nuts for crunch. This recipe is highly adaptable, making it a go-to dish for a flavorful and nutritious option that’s easy to make.
