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Roasted Cauliflower Tikka Masala

This is the definitive cauliflower tikka masala, and its superiority comes from one key technique: roasting the cauliflower. We roast the florets at high heat until deeply caramelized and tender, which adds a nutty sweetness that simmering alone can't achieve. This powerful flavor foundation is then folded into a luxurious, dairy-free sauce of coconut cream and tomato, perfectly balanced with a fragrant bloom of classic Indian spices.

40 minServes 4mediumvegetarianveganindiancurrycauliflowertikka masala
Roasted Cauliflower Tikka Masala

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp, divided Olive oil
  • 2 tsp, divided Turmeric
  • 3 tsp, divided Garam Masala
  • 1 tsp, divided, plus more to taste Salt
  • 1 large, chopped Onion
  • 4 cloves, minced Garlic
  • 2 tbsp, freshly grated Ginger
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp Ground Coriander
  • ½ tsp, or to taste Cayenne Pepper
  • 1 (15-ounce) can Tomato Sauce
  • 1 (13.5-ounce) can Full-Fat Coconut Milk or Cream
  • 1 (15-ounce) can, drained and rinsed Chickpeas
  • 2 tsp (optional, to balance acidity) Coconut Sugar
  • Cooked basmati rice, fresh cilantro To Serve
  • 1 large head, cut into bite-sized florets Cauliflower

Steps

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 425°F.

  2. 2

    On a large baking sheet, toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tbsp of olive oil, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp garam masala, and ½ tsp salt. Arrange in a single layer.

  3. 3

    Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender with charred, browned edges.

  4. 4

    While the cauliflower roasts, warm the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

  5. 5

    Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute more.

  6. 6

    Add the remaining 1 tsp turmeric, 2 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, and ½ tsp cayenne pepper. Constantly stir for 1 minute to bloom the spices.

  7. 7

    Pour in the tomato sauce, coconut milk, coconut sugar (if using), and the remaining ½ tsp salt. Mix to combine.

  8. 8

    Bring the sauce to a simmer and then lower the heat. Allow it to gently bubble for at least 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

  9. 9

    Stir the roasted cauliflower and drained chickpeas into the sauce. Let it all simmer together for 5 more minutes.

  10. 10

    Taste the sauce and adjust any seasonings to your preference. Serve hot over basmati rice with a garnish of fresh cilantro.

Pro tips

  • Roast your cauliflower well! Don't pull it from the oven until you see deep, dark brown spots. This char is not burnt; it's pure flavor and the key to a non-soggy texture.
  • Use a single layer for roasting. If you overcrowd the pan, the cauliflower will steam instead of roast. Use two pans if necessary.
  • Bloom your spices. Frying the dry spices in oil for a minute before adding liquids wakes up their essential oils, making the curry significantly more aromatic and flavorful.
  • Full-fat coconut milk or cream is essential for the rich, creamy texture. Light versions won't provide the same luxurious result.