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Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower

Cauliflower roasted until golden and nutty with turmeric, cumin, black pepper and coconut oil, finished with lemon and coriander.

Serves 4 as a side35 minutesPlant-basedGluten-freeKetoAnti-inflammatoryRich in vitamin C and fibre

Ingredients

  • 1 large cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted, or olive oil
  • 1½ tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp sea salt
  • A squeeze of lemon and a handful of coriander, to serve

Method

  1. Season: heat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan). Toss the cauliflower with the oil, turmeric, cumin, pepper and salt until evenly golden.
  2. Roast: spread out on a large tray, not too crowded, and roast for 25–30 minutes, turning once, until tender and charred at the edges.
  3. Finish: squeeze over the lemon and scatter with coriander.

Why it's good for you: Turmeric's golden pigment, curcumin, is one of the most studied natural anti-inflammatory compounds. On its own it is poorly absorbed, but black pepper and a little fat greatly improve its uptake, which is why they always go together here. Cauliflower is rich in vitamin C and fibre, and, like all brassicas, contains sulforaphane-forming compounds that support the body's own defences.

Good to know: If you take blood-thinning medicines, check with your GP or pharmacist before taking turmeric supplements; the amount used in cooking is not a concern.

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