Spice-Roasted Cauliflower in Coconut Tomato Sauce with Lentils

Roasted cauliflower with spices in flavourful coconut tomato sauce with red lentils is a delightful dish that showcases the best of plant-based cooking. This Spice-Roasted Cauliflower in Coconut Tomato Sauce with Lentils recipe is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. It combines the earthy flavors of roasted cauliflower with a creamy, aromatic sauce, making it a standout option for vegan and non-vegan diners alike. In about 40 minutes, you can serve up a wholesome meal that’s not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish cooks up in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor-Packed: The spice blend infuses the roasted cauliflower and sauce with rich, aromatic flavors.
• Nutrient-Dense: Cauliflower and lentils provide essential nutrients, making this a healthy choice.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or side, pairing well with rice or naan.
• Vegan-Friendly: Completely plant-based, this recipe caters to various dietary preferences.

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Tools and Preparation

To make this recipe efficiently, gather the necessary tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large baking sheet
• Deep skillet or braiser
• Small bowl for mixing spices
• Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large baking sheet: Essential for roasting the cauliflower evenly and achieving the perfect caramelization.
• Deep skillet or braiser: Ideal for cooking the coconut tomato sauce while allowing room for all ingredients to meld beautifully.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables, saving time during prep.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– ¾ teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– ½ teaspoon ground chillies
– ½ teaspoon ground coriander
– ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon ground fenugreek
– ¼ teaspoon fennel seeds
– 1 medium head of cauliflower cut into florets (about 6-7 cups florets)
– 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
– Sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste
– Spice blend (see above), divided
– 1 large shallot fine dice (about ½ cup diced shallot)
– 2-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– ½ cup split red lentils
– 1 cup crushed tomatoes (from a can!)
– 1 cup full fat coconut milk
– 3 cups vegetable stock
– 1 tablespoon lime juice, plus extra for serving
– Handful chopped cilantro, for serving
– Nigella seeds, for serving

How to Make Spice-Roasted Cauliflower in Coconut Tomato Sauce with Lentils

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Set out a large baking sheet to prepare for roasting the cauliflower.

Step 2: Make the Spice Blend

In a small bowl, combine:
1. Ground turmeric
2. Ground cumin
3. Ground chillies
4. Ground coriander
5. Ground cinnamon
6. Ground fenugreek
7. Fennel seeds
Stir to combine and set aside.

Step 3: Roast the Cauliflower

Place all of the cauliflower florets on the baking sheet. Drizzle with:
1. 2 tablespoons of olive oil
2. Half of the prepared spice blend
3. Sea salt and black pepper

Toss thoroughly to coat all florets in oil and spices. Arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast until deeply caramelized—about 40 minutes—flipping halfway through.

Step 4: Make the Coconut Tomato Sauce

While your cauliflower roasts, heat the remaining olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add:
1. Diced shallots

Sauté until they are soft and translucent—approximately 5–6 minutes.

Step 5: Add Spices & Aromatics

Add the remaining spice blend along with:
1. Minced ginger
2. Minced garlic

Continue sautéing until fragrant—around 1 minute before proceeding.

Step 6: Incorporate Lentils & Liquids

Add:
1. Split red lentils

Stir them into the skillet followed by:
1. Crushed tomatoes
2. Coconut milk
3. Vegetable stock

Bring everything to a boil then reduce to simmer until lentils are soft—about 25 minutes—stirring often to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Season & Blend Sauce

Once cooked, season generously with salt and pepper; add lime juice. You can blend this mixture using an upright blender for a smoother sauce or leave it chunky as preferred.

Step 8: Combine Cauliflower & Sauce

Remove roast cauliflower from oven and pour puréed sauce back into your skillet; add roasted cauliflower as well. Stir gently over medium heat until heated through.

Step 9: Garnish & Serve

Garnish your dish with chopped cilantro, nigella seeds, lime zest, and extra lime juice before serving warm.

Enjoy your delicious Spice-Roasted Cauliflower in Coconut Tomato Sauce with Lentils, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Spice-Roasted Cauliflower in Coconut Tomato Sauce with Lentils

Serving Spice-Roasted Cauliflower in Coconut Tomato Sauce with Lentils is all about enhancing the flavors and textures of this delicious dish. Here are a few creative ways to enjoy it.

Pair with Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The delicate aroma of jasmine rice complements the robust flavors of the sauce.
• Coconut Rice: Infuse your rice with coconut milk for a richer, creamier side.

Add Fresh Greens

• Sauteed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds a fresh, vibrant element that balances the richness of the sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: Toss fresh greens with a simple lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Include Flatbreads

• Naan Bread: Soft naan is perfect for scooping up the cauliflower and sauce.
• Pita Chips: Crispy pita chips add crunch and are great for dipping into the dish.

Top with Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro enhances the flavors and adds a pop of color.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the dish, adding acidity that cuts through richness.

How to Perfect Spice-Roasted Cauliflower in Coconut Tomato Sauce with Lentils

To make your Spice-Roasted Cauliflower in Coconut Tomato Sauce with Lentils even more delightful, consider these helpful tips.

• seasonings: Don’t be shy with spices; they are key to bringing out flavor in both the cauliflower and sauce.
• Even roasting: Ensure cauliflower florets are spread out on the baking sheet so they roast evenly without steaming.
• Adjust consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more vegetable stock or coconut milk to achieve your desired consistency.
• Blend for smoothness: Blending the sauce creates a creamier texture that beautifully coats the lentils and cauliflower.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding toasted nuts or seeds for an added crunch and flavor boost.
• Make ahead: This recipe can be prepared in advance—store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Spice-Roasted Cauliflower in Coconut Tomato Sauce with Lentils

Pairing side dishes can elevate your meal experience when enjoying Spice-Roasted Cauliflower in Coconut Tomato Sauce with Lentils. Here are some excellent options.

1. Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice is light and fragrant, making it a perfect partner for rich sauces.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with diced vegetables provides a nutritious complement.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add a hint of sweetness that balances spicy flavors beautifully.
4. Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt dip is perfect for countering spice while offering creamy texture.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Charred asparagus adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with curry dishes.
6. Chickpea Salad: A protein-rich salad featuring chickpeas, tomatoes, and herbs offers heartiness without heaviness.
7. Lentil Pilaf: Extra lentils infused with herbs create a cohesive meal while adding depth to your plate.
8. Fried Plantains: Sweet plantains bring sweetness and texture contrast to balance out savory notes from the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Spice-Roasted Cauliflower in Coconut Tomato Sauce with Lentils, avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Missing the spice blend: Forgetting to make or use the spice blend can lead to a bland dish. Always prepare it beforehand and ensure even distribution.
• Overcooking the cauliflower: If you roast the cauliflower too long, it becomes mushy. Keep an eye on it and flip halfway for even cooking.
• Using low-quality canned tomatoes: Poor-quality tomatoes can ruin the sauce’s flavor. Opt for high-quality crushed tomatoes for a better taste.
• Neglecting to season properly: Under-seasoning can leave your dish flat. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Skipping the lime juice: Lime juice adds brightness to the dish. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall flavor profile.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Spice-Roasted Cauliflower in Coconut Tomato Sauce with Lentils

• Freeze in a suitable freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Spice-Roasted Cauliflower in Coconut Tomato Sauce with Lentils

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat covered for about 20 minutes or until hot.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring frequently, until heated well, around 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Spice-Roasted Cauliflower in Coconut Tomato Sauce with Lentils.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute other vegetables like broccoli or carrots for cauliflower. Just adjust roasting times accordingly.

How do I ensure my lentils cook properly?

To ensure your lentils are perfectly cooked, rinse them before adding them to the sauce and keep an eye on liquid levels during cooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Spice-Roasted Cauliflower in Coconut Tomato Sauce with Lentils is naturally gluten-free since it contains no wheat products.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! You can increase the amount of ground chillies or add fresh sliced chilies for extra heat according to your preference.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

Pair it with rice, quinoa, or flatbreads like naan for a complete meal experience that balances flavors well.

Final Thoughts

Spice-Roasted Cauliflower in Coconut Tomato Sauce with Lentils is a delightful vegan option that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it with different vegetables or spices based on your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a nourishing meal that bursts with flavor!