Easy Cauliflower with Figs

This Easy Cauliflower with Figs is a delicious blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. It is a tasty side dish that can be paired with everything from veggies and meats. This aromatic dish is also a great addition to your holiday table.

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Sweet dry figs unite with cauliflower and a plethora of aromatic spices to result in a dish that is sure to be a conversation starter. As far as savory fig recipes, this dish is one of my favorites. I make this often, for holidays, late summer picnics, and just because.

What makes this dish so good, for me:

• It is delicious with its fusion blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors,
• It is dairy-free,
• It is so easy to make,
• It is a healthy side dish, and
• It is so aromatic, enticing you to take a taste!

Inspiration for this dish…

My mom adds whole cardamom pods and whole cloves to dishes like yellow rice and chicken curry. Her dishes are so incredibly aromatic and enticing. So, I added some whole cardamom pods and cloves to this dish.

These cardamom pods and whole cloves add a subtle flavoring that seems to enhance the other spices they are mingling with.

Now, if you cannot find whole cloves or cardamom pods, then you could add a pinch (and not a smidge more) of cardamom powder and ground cloves for a wonderful aroma.

The key is to add just a subtle amount so they are not overpowering but enhancing of those other flavors in this recipe, much like the cinnamon did in this dish.

This Spicy Cauliflower with Figs is an easy dish to make. And, from fiber to a smorgasbord of nutrients, it is packed with healthy goodness!

What are the Ingredients needed to make this Easy Cauliflower with Figs?

The 14 main ingredients I used are listed below, along with suggested substitutions.

1. Olive oil
   I used extra virgin olive oil. But any oil you have on hand will work. And, if you prefer a richer flavoring, feel free to use some butter.
2. Onion
   Any fresh onion, red or yellow, would work in this recipe. The onion could be replaced with shallots for a milder flavor.
3. Garlic cloves
   Fresh garlic is a must. If you prefer not to peel and chop garlic, most stores sell peeled and chopped garlic in their produce section.
4. Ginger
   Much like the garlic, fresh ginger adds a delightful, subtle flavor to this dish. However, if you cannot find fresh ginger, powdered ginger could be used. But use it sparingly.
5. Mustard seeds
   While this adds flavor and texture, mustard seeds can be omitted.
6. Whole cloves
   These can be found at most farmers’ markets or on Amazon. Whole cloves can also be used to make a delicious, sleep-inducing, immune-boosting tea. So, that bag of whole cloves won’t go to waste.
7. Cardamom pods
   Just like with the whole cloves, cardamom pods can be found on Amazon or at farmers’ markets.
8. Cauliflower
   I grabbed a head of fresh cauliflower for this. Fresh cauliflower could also be replaced with frozen cauliflower.
9. Four spices: I used a mix of coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, and chili powder. These spices can be replaced with a teaspoon or 2 of curry powder or 2 tsp of harissa.
10. California Dried Figs
    Dried figs are delicious in this recipe. Their sweet flavor balances out the spices so well. Ripe fresh figs could also be used in this dish. Though their juices would require the addition of less water when this is cooked.
11. Cilantro
    I used some fresh cilantro. However, the cilantro can be replaced with parsley or dried versions of either.

I also used some water (which could be replaced with some vegetable broth for even more flavor), salt, and black pepper.

Instructions

Step 1: Add the oil to a skillet and set it over a stove set to medium heat.

Step 2: Then, add in the chopped onion and mustard seeds. Let the onion and mustard seeds saute for 2 minutes.

Step 3: Then add in the ginger, garlic, cardamom pods, and whole cloves. Let these saute for about 8 more minutes, stirring occasionally so they don’t burn. Sauté until the slightly caramelized onions are light golden-brown.

Step 4: Chop the cauliflower, discarding the tough stem and any leaves. If there are any brown spots, cut these off too.

Step 5: Then, add the cauliflower florets to the skillet. Sprinkle on the turmeric, smoked paprika, chili powder, and coriander.

Step 6: Add the water to the skillet and place the chopped figs on top. Reduce the heat to low-medium, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 10 minutes. Check occasionally to make sure the water isn’t running low. If it does, then add in another tablespoon or two of water or a tbsp or 2 of vegetable broth.

Step 7: When done, stir well. Season with salt (or flaky sea salt) and pepper to taste. Stir well once more.

Step 8: Serve garnished with chopped cilantro and enjoy hot or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with everything from boiled eggs to roasted tofu to spicy pork chops.

This Easy Cauliflower with Figs can also be served on a bed of greens like arugula and baby spinach as a tasty salad that does not require any dressing.

This dish can also be served garnished with some pistachios or almonds and a drizzle of lemon juice.

For yet another spin, this Easy Cauliflower with Figs can be served with a sprinkling of crispy fried bacon!

Holiday Recipe Pairing Options…

If you are looking to add a spicy spin to your holiday side dishes with an easy and delicious recipe that’s sure to stir up conversation, then give this Easy Cauliflower with Figs a try.

Last year, I added a spicy spin to our holiday turkey by serving this easy cauliflower with figs recipe with this Spicy Honey Turkey. I also made some of this Chicken Biryani with Figs and Nuts, some roasted eggplant, some apple chutney, pear chutney, and some croquettes.

Thanks so much for stopping by. If you make this recipe, please let me know in the comments below what you think of it, or tag your creation on social media with @savoryspin or #savoryspin.
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Thank you for sharing!