Gulpea (Turmeric-Spiced Cauliflower Stew) Recipe
Introduction
Gulpea is a simple and flavorful cauliflower dish that combines the warmth of turmeric with the richness of tomato paste. It’s a perfect side or light meal that is easy to prepare and satisfying.

Ingredients
- 3 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion
- 3 Tbsp tomato paste
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- 1 medium head cauliflower
- 1 fresh red chili
- 1 cup water
- ¾ tsp salt
- 1 pinch ground black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the oil in a medium pot over high heat. Cook the onion, stirring often, until golden.
- Step 2: Add the tomato paste and turmeric, and stir continuously for 30 to 60 seconds to lightly toast the spices.
- Step 3: Add the cauliflower, fresh red chili, water, salt, and black pepper. Cover the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Stir every few minutes until the water is absorbed.
- Step 4: The dish is ready when the cauliflower is tender. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the fresh red chili before cooking.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the dish.
- Try adding a handful of chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for extra freshness.
- Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil for a different taste profile.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the cauliflower tender.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it becomes tender, as it may release more water during cooking.
Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely. Gulpea contains only plant-based ingredients and is vegan-friendly as written.
PrintGulpea (Turmeric-Spiced Cauliflower Stew) Recipe
Gulpea is a flavorful and comforting cauliflower stew featuring a blend of aromatic spices, tomato paste, and fresh chili. This simple yet satisfying dish uses basic ingredients and a straightforward cooking method to bring out the best in cauliflower, making it a perfect vegetarian main or side dish that is both hearty and nutritious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: South Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 Tbsp tomato paste
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 fresh red chili, sliced
- 1 cup water
- ¾ tsp salt
- 1 pinch ground black pepper
Instructions
- Heat the oil. In a medium pot over high heat, pour the vegetable oil and allow it to warm up until shimmering.
- Sauté the onions. Add the chopped onion to the hot oil and cook, stirring often, for several minutes until the onions become golden brown and slightly caramelized, which builds the base flavor.
- Add tomato paste and turmeric. Stir in the tomato paste and ground turmeric. Keep stirring continuously for about 30 to 60 seconds to toast the spices lightly and deepen their flavors without burning.
- Add cauliflower, chili, and seasonings. Add the cauliflower florets, sliced red chili, 1 cup of water, salt, and a pinch of black pepper to the pot. Stir to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the stew. Cover the pot with a lid, bring the contents to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook with occasional stirring every few minutes, until most of the water is absorbed and the cauliflower becomes soft and tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Serve. Once the cauliflower is cooked through and the flavors melded, remove from heat and enjoy the Gulpea warm as a hearty main dish or side.
Notes
- You can adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer fresh chilies according to your taste preference.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or ginger during the onion sautéing step.
- This dish pairs well with rice, flatbreads, or can be enjoyed on its own.
- Make sure to stir occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be gently reheated on the stovetop.
Keywords: Gulpea, cauliflower stew, vegetarian cauliflower recipe, South Asian vegetable dish, tomato turmeric cauliflower

