To begin making the Chettinad Cauliflower Pepper Fry Recipe (Milagu Pirattal Poriyal), first get all the ingredient ready and keep it by the side. It always helps to have things ready so the cooking process can be faster and quicker.

We will steam the cauliflower in the steamer until it is firm and yet cooked. Steaming, retains the nutrition of the vegetable and helps the cooking process of the Chettinad Cauliflower Pepper Fry Recipe faster. This should not take more than 3 to 4 minutes on high heat.

Heat a tablespoon of oil in heavy bottomed pan or a kadai on medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and allow it to crackle. Add the chopped onion and garlic and saute on low to medium heat until the onions have turned lightly golden brown.

Take care not to burn the onion and garlic. Next add the curry leaves, cloves, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, black pepper, cinnamon and coriander powder. Give it a stir and add the steamed cauliflower florets.

Sprinkle some salt and stir all the ingredients carefully until the spices coat the cauliflower well. 

Turn the heat to low, cover the pan and simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes until the Chettinad Cauliflower is well coated with the masala. Check the salt and spices and adjust to suit your taste.

Serve the Chettinad Cauliflower Pepper Fry along with Vendakkai Sambar and Steamed Rice for weekend lunch or weeknight dinner.