Tandoori Gobi | Gobi Tikka | Tandoori Cauliflower
Here is a recipe for you which is not only brimming with flavors but is simple to make – Tandoori Gobi, Gobi Tikka or Cauliflower Tikka. Though the preparation of this Tandoori Gobi recipe may not match the technique of a traditional tandoor, the result is similar – cauliflower (or gobi/gobhi) marinated in tandoori spices and oven-grilled/oven-baked to perfection. A scrumptious appetizer recipe!
About Tandoori Gobi
Tandoori recipes are not just a favorite in Punjabi or North Indian families, but is a celebrated one at my home too. This Tandoori Gobi recipe also referred to as Gobi Tikka or Cauliflower Tikka is an excellent choice for a snack or starter.
I don’t have a tandoor at home. Thus, used an oven to prepare this Tandoori Gobi. And trust me, the result is very close to the original, if not similar.
Once the initial step of marinating the gobi in the spiced curd base is completed, you can grill/bake it in an oven to replicate a tandoori mouth feel. A variant is this yummy Paneer Tikka that you can try as well.
This Cauliflower Tikka recipe might look elaborate, but once you begin with the procedure, you’ll realize it’s an easy-peasy one.
To achieve a dish fully laden with flavors distributed evenly, marinate the gobhi for at least an hour or two. You can refrigerate it if you want to marinate for longer.
I also use cashewnut curd (yogurt) as a base for the marinade of this Tandoori Gobi, which makes it vegan too. However, don’t fret as you can very well use the regular thick curd (or hung curd or greek yogurt) for marinating the cauliflower. This is a fool-proof recipe for which you’re going to thank me later!
The best part about this Tandoori Gobi recipe is that no one really comes to know that it is actually made with a plant-based curd and not the usual dairy one. Such are the flavors and textures of this dish.
This Cauliflower Tikka is quite fiery. So, if you are preparing it for kids or people who have a low tolerance to spice levels, cut down on the quantity of red chili powder and garam masala powder. Both the measurements have been included in the recipe details below.
This spicy Tandoori Gobi a.k.a Gobi Tikka, Gobhi Tikka or Tandoori Cauliflower is one of those vegetarian recipes that is an instant hit with one and all.
Best enjoyed as a starter in parties, celebrations, special occasions or just a regular day. This Cauliflower Tikka also acts as a great filling for wraps and rolls, which qualify well as ‘dabba’ (tiffin) food.
How to make Tandoori Gobi
Preparation
1. We need to use thick curd (yogurt) or you have to use Hung Curd or greek yogurt. If using hung curd or greek yogurt, jump to step 5.
To make homemade hung curd, take 3 to 3.5 cups of Curd (yogurt) in a cheese cloth/muslin cloth, tie and hang it and let the whey drain out. This may take several hours.
For a plant based yogurt, the first step would be to drain the water. You can use a fine mesh strainer like I have done and drain the water.
Simply transfer 2.25 to 2.5 cups yogurt to the strainer kept above a bowl. Cover with lid and set aside for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
After the yogurt has been drained of the water, measure and you will need about ½ to ¾ cup of plant based cashew yogurt or hung curd or greek yogurt.
2. Chop 1 small to medium sized cauliflower into medium florets and rinse well in water. Make sure they are of uniform size so that they cook evenly.
3. Meanwhile boil some water with ½ teaspoon of salt in a pan or pot. Add the florets and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on medium heat.
Switch off heat and then continue to keep them in the hot water for 7 to 8 minutes more.
4. Next, drain the water from the cauliflower florets and set aside.
Make Gobi Tikka Marinade
5. Roast 2 tablespoons besan (gram flour) in a frying pan. You could use chickpea flour instead of gram flour.
6. Roast stirring often, till it becomes golden brown and starts giving a nutty aroma.
7. To make the marinade, take the hung curd or strained and thick plant based yogurt in a bowl. Add all the below listed dry spice powders and herbs to it.
- ½ teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
- ½ or 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ or 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- ½ tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi), crushed
- black salt as required, can use regular salt or pink salt
8. Mix well and add 1 tablespoon oil along with the roasted besan.
9. Stir the roasted gram flour and oil well so that no lumps are formed.
10. Add the cauliflower florets in the marinade and gently coat them with it.
11. To marinate, cover with lid and keep the bowl aside for 1 hour or more in the fridge.
You can also keep overnight in the fridge. After 1 hour, gently mix the whole mixture again.
Make Tandoori Gobi
12. Preheat an oven to 200 degrees C/395 F for 15 minutes. On a grilling rack, place the marinated gobi florets.
Keep a tray or plate (lined with aluminum foil or parchment) below for easy clean up later.
13. Place the tray in the preheated oven. If you have a small oven, grill or bake in batches. You could keep the tray in the center rack or in the second top rack above.
Grill or bake at 200 degrees C/395 F in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes or till the cauliflower florets are cooked tender and the edges start to brown.
After 10 or 15 minutes, remove the tray and turn over the florets. This is done for even grilling and cooking.
You can also char them a little if you want. But don’t overcook as they become dry. The cauliflower florets should be tender, juicy and well-cooked.
15: Serve Tandoori Gobi or Gobi Tikka hot with some Mint Chutney, onion slices and lemon wedges. Sprinkle some chaat masala and black salt on top.
This tender, spiced and grilled Tandoori Gobi pairs excellently with breads, buns, naan or tandoori roti as well. You can also have them plain or as a side dish.
Expert Tips
- For best results, marinate the cauliflower in the curd or yogurt marinade for at least 2 hours or more. Make sure to keep it in the refrigerator if marinating for longer. The more you marinate the better the tikka.
- The spice level of this recipe is high. If you want to cut down on the spiciness, reduce the quantity of red chili powder and garam masala powder in the recipe.
- Chopping the cauliflower florets in one size helps in even grilling or baking.
- While I have used cashew yogurt here, I have also made this recipe with dairy yogurt and it works well. In fact a plant based yogurt like almond yogurt also works.
- The grilling time may alter from oven to oven. Make sure to keep the tray in the middle rack and use both the top and bottom heating elements.
- While turning the cauliflower florets midway in the oven, be careful as both the tray and the cauliflower florets will be hot. Wearing a mitten while handling the tray is advisable.
FAQs
How long can I marinate the gobhi?
You can marinate the gobhi at least for 2 hours. For best results, you can marinate it overnight in a refrigerator. The longer you marinate, the better the flavours and texture.
Why should I boil/blanch the cauliflower florets before marinating them?
Boiling or blanching the cauliflower florets softens them a bit and helps in getting rid of any worms or insects if any.
Can I deep-fry the gobi florets?
Yes, you can either deep-fry or shallow-fry too. In this case, you will have to add more gram flour to coat the gobi well.
How can I make this recipe if I don’t have an oven? Can I use a microwave instead?
If you don’t have an oven, you can add 1 to 2 tablespoons gram flour in the marinade and then pan-fry the marinated gobi in some oil. It is better not to use a microwave as you won’t get the grilled flavors in it.
Can I substitute the cauliflower in this dish with any other vegetable?
Yes. You can use potato, sweet potato, yam, mushroom, paneer or cottage cheese, etc. instead of potato.
What can I make with the leftover marinade?
You can add other vegetables, mushrooms, paneer or cottage cheese, tofu, etc. in it and cook to get delicious snacks or appetizers.
Step by Step Photo Guide Above
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 cauliflower (gobi/gobhi), small to medium-sized
For the marinade
- ½ to ¾ cup Hung Curd or Greek Yogurt or 2.25 to 2.5 cups Cashew Yogurt
- ½ tablespoon Ginger Garlic Paste or about 1 inch ginger and 2 to 3 medium to large garlic cloves, crushed or ground in a mortar-pestle
- ½ or 1 teaspoon Red Chili Powder or cayenne pepper
- ½ or 1 teaspoon Garam Masala or tandoori masala
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder (ground coriander)
- 1 teaspoon Chaat Masala
- ½ teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
- 1 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi)
- 2 tablespoon gram flour – roasted (besan), swap with chickpea flour instead
- 1 or 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon oil
- black salt or pink salt or regular salt as required
Instructions
Preparation
- If using plant based yogurt like cashew yogurt, drain its water first. Place the yogurt in a fine meshed sieve, which is placed on top of a bowl. Cover and set aside for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- With using a fine mesh sieve, this whole process takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. You don't want too thick a yogurt. So 45 minutes is fine.
- If you prefer, you can use Greek yogurt or hung curd straightaway. To follow the method of making your own hung curd, check this DIY recipe: Hung Curd.
- Meanwhile, rinse and chop the cauliflower/gobi into a medium-sized florets.
- Try to keep them in one size as its helps in uniform grilling or baking.
- Boil some water with about ½ teaspoon of salt. Add the florets and simmer them for 3 to 4 minutes on medium heat.
- Turn off the heat and let the florets be in the hot water for 7 to 8 minutes.
- Drain the water and keep the partly cooked florets aside.
Making gobi tikka marinade
- In a bowl, take the strained yogurt or the hung curd or greek yogurt.
- Add all of the ground spices, seasonings and herbs, listed under the marinade.
- Mix all the ingredients listed under the heading "For The Marinade" including roasted gram flour, oil and salt.
- Check the seasonings and add more salt or the spices if required. Add the cauliflower florets and mix thoroughly.
- Place in the fridge and marinate for an hour or two. You can also marinate for a longer period of time.
Making tandoori gobi
- Preheat the oven to 200 degrees C/395 F for 15 minutes. On a grill rack, place the cauliflower florets. Place the grill rack on a top of a baking tray lined with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.
- You can also brush the florets with oil if required.
- Grill or bake the cauliflower florets at 200 degrees C/395 F for 20 to 25 minutes or till they become tender and the edges start to brown. While grilling, after 10 or 15 minutes, remove the tray and turn over the florets.
- Once grilled, remove from the tray and arrange on serving platter or plate.
- Garnish with coriander leaves and sprinkle some chaat masala.
- Serve Tandoori Gobi with mint chutney along with sliced onion and lemon wedges.
- You can also sprinkle some lemon juice on the Gobi Tikka if you like.
- Enjoy Tandoori Gobi or Gobi Tikka with bread, buns, roti or naan.
Notes
- Adjust the spices and seasonings according to your preferences. Opt to add less red chilli powder and garam masala powder if you want.
- Partly cooking the cauliflower helps it bake or grill perfectly in less time.
- To make roasted besan, roast the gram flour in a small frying pan on low heat, stirring often, until its color changes and it smells nutty.
- For the marination, you can use preferred plant based yogurt or dairy yogurt. If using dairy yogurt, use a thick yogurt, Greek yogurt or hung curd.
- This recipe can be halved or doubled easily.
Nutrition
This Tandoori Gobi recipe from the blog archives, first published in Feburary 2013 has been republished and updated on December 2022.
Hi Dassana.
I regularly follow your blog and make veg recipes in my kitchen. I am going to make this today. Do you turn the gobi florets midway or do you grill them for 20-25 mins at one side?
pratirupa, i do turn them midway once or twice while grilling. i will update in the post too.
This recipe is spot on. So flavorful and each ingredient adds value to the overall dish.
Thanks Arch
My hubby n daughter loved it!!! The recipe was a big hit likeost of your other recipes. Thanks a ton ?
Welcome Shruti. Glad to know this.
This recipe turned out very well just as all other recipes on this blog. Thanks:-)
thank you abha.
Cooking wasn’t one of my hobbies, until I happened to make pav bhaji once using your recipe. The way you present it with step-by-step pics and also an introduction to the recipe is amazing. The pav bhaji came out really well and was loved by my family. I then tried out a couple of more recipes from your site and now I am just hooked to your blog. Cooking is now one of my hobbies, thanks to you :).
I had a question regarding the tandoori gobi recipe. How should the recipe be altered in case I marinate the gobi without boiling it before?
thank you much rima. i would suggest blanching as it softens the cauliflower a bit and gets rid of insects or worms if any. if you still do not want to blanch, then its the same method. you can marinate for an hour, a couple of hours or overnight in the fridge. the more you marinate the better the tikka becomes.
Turned out so well! Thank you so much for this recipe 🙂 Easy to whip up and good for satisfying a tandoori craving, that too homemade! Thanks a lot again!
welcome always nirupama and thankyou 🙂
Hi just tried this receive with more vegetables you. I skewed it to a tooth pick and put it on the tava.it was yum.thx. you are my cooking guide.
welcome ashwini. thanks for sharing your positive feedback and kind words.
can we deep fry instead of grill
you can either deep fry or shallow fry. in this case, you add more of besan like about 4 to 5 tbsp as the besan will coat the gobi well.
Hi Amit,
I’m very fond of cooking n keep visiting ur blog evryday to learn something new.I always like to try something new apart frm what I hv learnt frm my mom n must say ur recipes help all v fud lovers a lot.
Three cheers to u for this.
I have tried ur recipe of tandoori Gobi n as I dnt hv a grill option I deep fried them with adding a lil corn flour fr d extra crunch n yes they were gud.thanku once again.
Also r u vegetarian n cuk only veg or do u cuk non veg too can v hv d privilege of cuking ur non veg recipes too.
Thanks 🙂
thanks deepshika for the lovely comment. nice to know your variation to the tandoori gobi. in some restaurants i have seen, they do this way. we are vegetarians and cook only vegetarian food at home. so thus the website has only vegetarian recipes.
Hi Dassana!
I am in love with your food blog and its recipes. They are simply awesome and your way of presentation makes them seem so simple to make.
Earlier, I used to google out recipes before trying out something new; but now, I simply come to vegrecipesofindia, look for a cool recipe and try it out!
Great job! Keep going!
Cheers,
Pranita
P.S.: My husband fell in love with my cooking since the time I made Hyderabadi Dum Biryani – your way!
welcome pranita. glad to know this. you are always welcome in this cooking blog. please feel free to write any query about recipes.
Hi i have tired some of ur recipes —n i must tell t way u present makes it look so easy to understand n fr cooking. Ma husband is happy wid ma cooking n d taste u gives to ur recipes is yummiest.
I must salute u for ur mind blowing recipes n fr ur cooking.
thanks sneha for this sweet and motivating comment.
Hi i have tired some of ur recipes —n i must tell t way u present makes it look so easy n beginners like me can see the pictures n understand it in a better way.
Ur effort makes things easy for us. Thk u
welcome sunayna. glad to know that you like the recipes.
I set the oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit instead of 400 degrees (which is approx what 200 degrees Celsius is – i checked the post the disaster! ) I was already running late and there was no time to saute it; that is a good idea though, I shall keep that in mind. Thanks!
okay. these things happen sometimes, especially when we are in a hurry 🙂
This was a disaster! Not because of your recipe obviously, but because i overlooked the 200 CELSIUS part, and here everything is in Fahrenheit! Argh! It never cooked through properly 🙁
Will have to see if I get the courage to try this again.
I was really looking forward to try and taste this recipe, maybe the result of over anticipation! Sigh….
🙁 thats sad to know. it must have been slow roasted. i don’t know what you did. if i was there, i would just pan fried or shallow fried the cauliflower to get them to cook more. or just sauted them in some oil. you can try again. don’t lose heart. and this time for sure you will be careful 🙂
Wow, this looks awesome!
How can I make this on stove if I don’t have an oven?
you have or you don’t have an oven? this recipe is meant to be made in the oven.
I don’t have an oven. I’d still like to try this recipe. This looks scrumptious.
well, then just add 1 or 2 tbsp besan in the marination and the pan fry the marinated gobi in some oil.
I have tried making this recipe tandoori gobi and must say it turned out so well my husband couldn’t stop eating it he said it taste so much like chicken tandoori…and now its in the list of my fav quick recipes.
Thank u Dassana!
thanks noorain
I always try all your recipies and they r so delicious,can u plz tel me the measurement of 1cup in grams
what ingredient you want to convert in grams. since a cup measurement is volume based, when converting into grams, the proportions vary a lot depending on the type of ingredient. i suggest to use this link: http://www.jsward.com/cooking/conversion.shtml
Dassana, I read your interview on Food Writer Fridays and followed the link to this mouthwatering recipe. So glad I did!
thanks kim 🙂
I was looking for a gobi recipe!! Good, I found this one. Love the tikkas, looks star worthy. And as always great and lovely shots. Especially the one with all the spice placed in a circle,!!
Only problem to me is, i don’t have a grill – so i will blanch the florets first & then marinate them and just saute in little oil.
you can easily cook the marinated florets in oil in a shallow frying pan or a tava.
Hello Pavithra
How did the sauted Tandoori Gobi turned out?
ohhhhhhh nice dish dassana.I love anything that goes with cauliflower.
Awesome photography, loved the steps as well and the recipe is too good with all those spices.
your selection of recipes is very interesting. one is immediately tempted to try them.
thanks bushra.
Very Nice preparation, if you could please inform about power level settings in Microwave and time to cook it in MW
i won’t suggest to make tandoori gobi in microwave. you won’t get the grilled flavors here. instead of microwaving, you can pan fry the marinated gobi in some oil. use a non stick pan. even pan frying the gobi, makes them taste really good.
will make the recipe it looks tasty
do try shoba
I do this mostly in a similar manner…just love it…looks delicious n perfect to stuff in those pavs..
Lovely pics, drool worthy gobi!
awesome dassana especially the mixing with all powder photo amazing click !