Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Cauliflower Curry Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Cauliflower Curry is a simple, delicious and healthy take on a classic curry. It’s a vibrant, aromatic dish that combines roasted cauliflower with bold, warming spices. The beauty of this recipe is in its use of the air fryer which speeds up the cooking process while keeping the cauliflower crispy on the outside and tender inside. It’s lighter than traditional frying, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, guilt-free meal.

The curry is packed with rich flavors from ingredients like garlic, ginger and turmeric. The cauliflower itself absorbs all those lovely spices, giving it a wonderful depth. The air fryer method ensures you don’t have to deal with all the oil splatter of deep frying, yet you still get a crunchy texture that’s hard to beat.

Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Cauliflower Curry Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Cauliflower Curry, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Cauliflower – The star of the dish! You’ll want to cut it into florets and a medium-sized cauliflower will do the trick.
2. Olive oil – For tossing the cauliflower and adding a bit of richness.
3. Spices – This recipe features a range of ground spices like cumin, turmeric, garam masala and coriander. These give the curry that punchy, aromatic flavor.
4. Fresh ginger – Adds a touch of freshness and warmth to the curry.
5. Garlic – Another must for flavor, it adds a savory depth that balances the spices.
6. Lemon juice – A squeeze of lemon at the end brightens up the dish, cutting through the richness of the cauliflower.
7. Coconut milk – This creamy ingredient adds smoothness to the curry sauce and a hint of sweetness, perfect with all the spices.
8. Fresh cilantro (optional) – For garnish, this adds a refreshing note and vibrant color to the dish.

Equipment Needed

For this dish, the star piece of equipment is, of course, the air fryer. It’s what makes the cauliflower crispy without all the mess of frying in oil.

You’ll also need:

1. A cutting board and knife. To chop the cauliflower and garlic.
2. A bowl – To toss the cauliflower in olive oil and spices before it goes into the air fryer.
3. A pan or skillet. For cooking the curry sauce once the cauliflower is done.
4. A spoon – To stir the curry as it simmers, ensuring the flavors meld together.
5. Measuring spoons – To measure out the spices and other ingredients.

That’s pretty much it. This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just your air fryer and some basic kitchen tools.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Cauliflower Curry

1. Prep the cauliflower – Break the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, turmeric, cumin, coriander and a pinch of salt. Make sure the florets are well-coated in the spice mix.
2. Air fry the cauliflower. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Place the cauliflower in the air fryer basket, spreading it out in an even layer. Air fry for about 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The cauliflower should be golden brown and crispy on the edges when done.
3. Prepare the curry sauce. While the cauliflower is air frying, heat a pan over medium heat and add a bit of oil. Sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant, then add a tablespoon of garam masala and cook for another minute to bring out the spices’ flavors.
4. Simmer the sauce – Pour in the coconut milk and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt to taste.
5. Combine – Once the cauliflower is roasted and crispy, add it to the curry sauce. Stir gently to coat the cauliflower in the sauce, allowing it to soak up all the wonderful flavors.
6. Garnish and serve – Serve the curry over rice or with naan. Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy!

What I Learnt

Making Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Cauliflower Curry taught me a lot about how simple ingredients can come together to create such a rich, flavorful dish. The air fryer really shines here, making the cauliflower crisp without the need for excessive oil. The combination of spices might seem long but it’s worth the effort. the curry gets this perfect balance of warmth and richness.

The coconut milk adds a creamy smoothness that brings all the spices together but the lemon juice at the end? That’s the key to cutting through the heaviness and brightening everything up. I was surprised at how quickly it all came together. no need to simmer for hours, just a few minutes and you’ve got a fantastic meal.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Cauliflower Curry

Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Cauliflower Curry is already a winner but a few tweaks can take it to the next level. If you love experimenting in the kitchen, here are some ideas that might fit your tastes:

1. Add More Protein

   While the cauliflower is the star of the show, you can toss in some extra protein like chickpeas, tofu or even grilled chicken to make it more filling. If you want to keep it plant-based, add chickpeas-they’ll absorb the curry sauce beautifully and give the dish a satisfying texture.

2. Experiment With Spices

   The recipe likely calls for curry powder but why not mix things up a bit? Try garam masala, smoked paprika or even a dash of cinnamon for a warming twist. If you like it spicy, throw in a few fresh chilies or a spoonful of chili paste to really amp up the heat.

3. Add A Sweet Element

   A touch of sweetness can balance the spices perfectly. Stir in a spoon of honey, maple syrup or even some dried apricots to bring a bit of sweetness into the mix. The natural sugar will meld with the spices and give your curry a complex, layered flavor.

4. Incorporate More Veggies

   Cauliflower is great but why not add some more veggies? Think bell peppers, spinach or peas. You could even throw in some sweet potato cubes for a heartier texture and a slightly sweet undertone. The air fryer will roast them beautifully without compromising their flavor.

5. Coconut Milk Or Yogurt?

   While coconut milk adds a creamy richness to the dish, swapping it out for yogurt can bring a tangy freshness. You could even mix both-coconut milk for the base and a swirl of yogurt to finish off the curry. It’ll give it a lovely creaminess and depth.

Storage Tips For Leftovers

Leftovers of this curry can be a real treat but you’ll want to store them properly to keep them tasting fresh.

1. Cool Down First

   Allow the curry to cool completely before storing. This will help prevent moisture buildup in your storage container which can make the curry soggy over time.

2. Airtight Containers

   Use airtight containers to store your leftovers. This will prevent air from getting in and affecting the flavor. If you’ve got a few servings, consider splitting the curry into smaller containers. This way, you won’t have to keep reheating the entire batch.

3. Fridge Life

   The curry will keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. It’ll get better with time as the flavors continue to develop, so you’re in for a treat when you revisit it. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before enjoying.

4. Freezing For Longer Storage

   If you don’t think you’ll eat it within a few days, freezing is a great option. The curry can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply defrost it in the fridge overnight and reheat it. Just be aware that the cauliflower might lose some texture after freezing but it’ll still taste amazing.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Cauliflower Curry?

If you’re wondering what to serve alongside this curry, you’ve got plenty of delicious options.

1. Rice, Of Course!

   Classic white rice is always a great pairing. But if you’re looking to mix it up, try basmati or jasmine rice for that aromatic fragrance. Or, for a healthier spin, serve it with quinoa or cauliflower rice. The fluffy grains absorb the curry perfectly.

2. Naan Bread Or Roti

   Naan bread is a no-brainer for soaking up all that delicious sauce. You can even make it yourself (it’s easier than it sounds) or grab a store-bought version for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, try roti or paratha for a slightly different texture.

3. Crispy Veggies Or A Salad

   A fresh, crisp salad can provide a lovely contrast to the rich curry. Think cucumber, tomatoes, red onion and a squeeze of lime. A little crunch goes a long way to balance the softness of the cauliflower.

4. Yogurt Or Raita

   A cool, creamy yogurt sauce on the side will give you a nice contrast to the spices in the curry. You could go with a classic cucumber raita or just serve plain yogurt with a sprinkle of cumin and fresh coriander. The yogurt’s coolness complements the heat of the curry beautifully.

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower For This Recipe?

Yes, frozen cauliflower works just fine! Just make sure to thaw it before cooking for the best results.

How Spicy Is Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Cauliflower Curry?

It’s mildly spicy, but you can adjust the heat by adding more chili if you like it hotter.

Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?

Yes, it’s already vegan! Just check the curry paste ingredients to make sure it’s plant-based.