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Cumin-Roasted Broccoli with Preserved Lemon Yogurt Recipe

4.5 from 88 reviews

This vibrant and flavorful recipe features cumin-roasted purple sprouting broccoli served with a zesty preserved lemon yogurt and crunchy spiced breadcrumbs. The broccoli is roasted to tender perfection with cumin seasoning, while the crispy, spiced breadcrumbs add a delightful texture contrast. The preserved lemon yogurt complements the dish with a refreshing tang, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish bursting with bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Broccoli

  • 500g purple sprouting broccoli, trimmed
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to season

For the Spiced Breadcrumbs

  • 2 small slices of stale white bread
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp sweet smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to season

For the Preserved Lemon Yogurt

  • 1 preserved lemon, finely chopped, seeds discarded
  • 100g full-fat yogurt
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped coriander leaves
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley leaves
  • ½ garlic clove, finely grated
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Roast Broccoli: Heat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/gas mark 6. Check that the broccoli stalks are roughly the same thickness; halve the thicker ones lengthwise to ensure even cooking. Rub the broccoli with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with 1 tablespoon ground cumin, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Spread out the broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender with a slight char.
  2. Make the Breadcrumbs: While the broccoli cooks, heat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/gas mark 4. Tear the stale bread into small pieces and bake for 5 to 10 minutes until crunchy. Transfer the toasted bread pieces into a food processor and blitz until you form coarse breadcrumbs.
  3. Cook the Spiced Breadcrumbs: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a frying pan over low heat. Add the finely chopped garlic, sweet smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon ground cumin, cayenne pepper, and some seasoning. Stir regularly and fry the breadcrumbs in this spice mixture for about 5 minutes until they turn golden and fragrant. Remove the breadcrumbs from the pan and drain on kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil.
  4. Prepare the Preserved Lemon Yogurt: In a bowl, combine the finely chopped preserved lemon (seeds discarded), full-fat yogurt, chopped coriander, parsley, and grated garlic. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
  5. Serve: Plate the cumin-roasted broccoli, scatter the warm spiced breadcrumbs generously over the top, and serve the preserved lemon yogurt on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • If purple sprouting broccoli is unavailable, you can substitute with tenderstem broccoli or regular broccoli florets.
  • Ensure the breadcrumbs are toasted but not burnt for the best flavor and crunch.
  • Preserved lemon adds a bright, tangy flavor but can be salty; adjust seasoning accordingly.
  • This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it great for entertaining.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute the bread with gluten-free bread or omit the breadcrumbs.

Keywords: cumin roasted broccoli, preserved lemon yogurt, spiced breadcrumbs, Mediterranean side dish, roasted vegetables, vegetarian recipe