Tandoori Grilled Cauliflower

I love indian cuisine. I also love cauliflower. This is an awesome appitizer or side that is sure to impress! Here's what you'll need to make 1 head of cauliflower:

Photo byMrs Balbir Singh

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cauliflower

Tandoori Paste:

• 3/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 teaspoon EACH: coriander and paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon EACH: cumin, ground fennel, turmeric, garam masala or curry powder, chili powder, and salt
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or paste
• 1" piece of ginger, finely grated or paste
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

The Tahini Cilantro Sauce

• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 1/4 cup finely minced cilantro
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1 clove garlic, very finely minced or paste
• A generous pinch of sea salt

Optional:

• Cilantro, chopped
• Lemon slices

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the tandoori paste.

Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and mix them until they are thoroughly coated with the tandoori paste. Let the cauliflower marinate on the counter for 30 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

While the cauliflower is marinating, prepare the tahini cilantro sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup yogurt, ¼ cup finely minced cilantro, 2 tablespoons tahini, the juice of ½ lemon, 1 clove of garlic, and a generous pinch of sea salt. Gradually add water, about ⅓ cup, until the sauce reaches a dipping consistency.

To grill: Heat grill to medium high. Oil vegetable basket or grate. Fill with cauliflower, ensuring that you do not overfill it. (Overfilling will lead to steamed and mushy florets instead of grilled). Then grill cauliflower for about 10 minutes each side, or until desired doneness. Remove and enjoy!

For oven directions: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the marinated cauliflower evenly on the baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 40 minutes, tossing halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Serve the tandoori cauliflower garnished with chopped cilantro, lemon slices, and the tahini cilantro sauce on the side. Enjoy!!