Curried Cauliflower

Featured in Perfectly Savory Sides.

Quick side dish combining stovetop searing and oven roasting for crispy cauliflower with curry flavor.
Sarah
Updated on Tue, 21 Jan 2025 10:35:57 GMT
A close-up image of golden-brown, battered and fried cauliflower florets, garnished with parsley, served with a small bowl of dipping sauce. Pin it
A close-up image of golden-brown, battered and fried cauliflower florets, garnished with parsley, served with a small bowl of dipping sauce. | kitchenscroll.com

One evening while craving something crispy and delicious I discovered the magic of perfectly roasted cauliflower. That moment when those florets turn golden brown with edges so crispy they crackle when you bite into them changed everything. Now this simple dish has become my favorite way to transform ordinary cauliflower into something extraordinary.

Pure Kitchen Magic

Every time I make this dish my kitchen fills with the most amazing aroma. The way those edges turn golden and crispy while the inside stays perfectly tender it's like vegetable alchemy. Even my veggie-skeptic friends can't resist grabbing seconds.

What You'll Need

  • Perfect Cauliflower: Look for bright white heads they're worth seeking out.
  • Avocado Oil: My secret for that perfect crisp.
  • Curry Powder: Adds such wonderful warmth.
  • Sea Salt: Just enough to make flavors sing.

Let's Get Started

Setting Up
I love cranking that oven up nice and hot it's key for perfect crispiness.
Prep Work
Take your time with those florets uniform pieces are worth the extra minute.
Season with Love
Each piece gets a nice coating of our flavorful mix.
The Sizzle
That sound when cauliflower hits the hot pan pure kitchen music.
Finishing Touch
Let the oven work its magic turning everything golden perfect.

My Best Tips

After countless batches I've learned a few tricks. Those even cuts matter they're the difference between perfect and just okay. And don't rush the pan heating that initial sear sets you up for success. Sometimes I cook in batches giving each piece the space it deserves.

A close-up of crispy, golden-brown battered cauliflower pieces garnished with green herbs, accompanied by a small bowl of dipping sauce. Pin it
A close-up of crispy, golden-brown battered cauliflower pieces garnished with green herbs, accompanied by a small bowl of dipping sauce. | kitchenscroll.com

Serving Ideas

We love these crispy bites straight from the pan with just a sprinkle of extra salt. But they also shine alongside some garlicky aioli or spicy yogurt dip. Sometimes I toss them on salads or grain bowls adding that perfect crunch factor.

Saving Some for Later

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers they'll keep nicely in the fridge. Just pop them back in a hot oven to crisp up again. The microwave works in a pinch but you'll miss that wonderful crunch.

Good for You Too

Besides being absolutely delicious this dish packs serious nutrition. All those vitamins and fiber wrapped up in crispy golden packages. It's my favorite way to prove healthy food can be crave-worthy.

Mix It Up

Some nights I swap the curry for Italian herbs or go spicy with chili flakes. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of tahini sauce takes things in a whole new direction. That's the beauty of this recipe it's endlessly adaptable.

Meal Prep Magic

This has become my go-to for weekly meal prep. A big batch on Sunday means crispy delicious veggies all week long. They're perfect for quick lunches or easy dinner sides.

A close-up of crispy, golden-brown cauliflower bites garnished with green herbs, served with a small cup of dipping sauce. Pin it
A close-up of crispy, golden-brown cauliflower bites garnished with green herbs, served with a small cup of dipping sauce. | kitchenscroll.com

Common Fixes

If your cauliflower isn't getting crispy enough check your pan spacing. Those pieces need room to brown not steam. And make sure your oven's good and hot before they go in.

Everyone's Welcome

One of the best things about this recipe is how inclusive it is. Naturally gluten-free and vegan it fits almost every diet. Plus it's so good nobody feels like they're missing out.

Year-Round Goodness

While cauliflower is my favorite this method works beautifully with other veggies too. Broccoli Brussels sprouts even sweet potatoes get that same magical crispy treatment.

Party Perfect

These crispy bites have saved many a party spread. They're elegant enough for fancy gatherings but casual enough for game day snacking. Plus they taste great at room temperature making them perfect for buffets.

Simple Joy

What started as a simple craving has become one of my most treasured recipes. It reminds me that sometimes the simplest dishes bring the most joy. And watching people discover how amazing cauliflower can be never gets old.

A plate of crispy, golden-fried cauliflower pieces garnished with parsley, accompanied by a small bowl of dipping sauce. Pin it
A plate of crispy, golden-fried cauliflower pieces garnished with parsley, accompanied by a small bowl of dipping sauce. | kitchenscroll.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why use two cooking methods?
Searing creates golden exterior while roasting ensures tender interior and crispy edges.
→ What oil works best?
Use high smoke point oils like avocado or grapeseed. Avoid olive oil which smokes at high heat.
→ How do I get crispy results?
Cut even-sized pieces, don't overcrowd pan, use enough oil, and stir while roasting.
→ Can I make this ahead?
Best served immediately. Can refrigerate 4 days but loses crispiness. Not freezer friendly.
→ What can I serve this with?
Great as side dish or in grain bowls. Optional toppings include cilantro, almonds and tahini.

Curried Cauliflower

Crispy roasted cauliflower florets seasoned with curry powder and maple syrup. Two-step cooking method for perfect texture.

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
25 Minutes

Category: Perfect Sides

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: International

Yield: 4 Servings (4 portions)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 1 large cauliflower head, in florets.
02 2-3 tablespoons avocado oil.
03 1 teaspoon sea salt.
04 1 tablespoon curry powder.
05 1/2 teaspoon maple syrup.
06 Optional: cilantro, almonds, tahini.

Instructions

Step 01

Heat oven to 450°F. Cut cauliflower into even florets.

Step 02

Toss with 1 tablespoon oil, salt, curry powder, maple syrup.

Step 03

Heat remaining oil in skillet. Sear cauliflower 5 minutes until golden.

Step 04

Transfer to oven for 10-15 minutes. Stir every 5 minutes until crispy.

Step 05

Add optional garnishes. Serve immediately.

Notes

  1. Keeps 4 days refrigerated.
  2. Not freezer friendly.

Tools You'll Need

  • Oven-safe skillet.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Tree nuts (optional almonds).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 119
  • Total Fat: 7.6 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 11.5 g
  • Protein: 4.3 g