Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower recipe because it transforms a humble vegetable into a bold, flavorful dish. The combination of honey, sriracha, and a blend of spices creates a perfect balance of sweetness and heat. Roasting the cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness while giving it a crispy texture, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether I’m serving it as a side dish, snack, or appetizer, this recipe never fails to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to heat preference)

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: I start by preheating my oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Cauliflower: I cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.

3. Season the Cauliflower: In a large bowl, I toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, ensuring they are well-coated. I then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Roast the Cauliflower: I spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. I roast them in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.

5. Prepare the Sauce: While the cauliflower is roasting, I whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground cumin in a small bowl until well combined.

6. Glaze the Cauliflower: Once the cauliflower is done roasting, I remove it from the oven and drizzle the prepared sauce over the florets. I toss them gently to ensure they are evenly coated.

7. Final Roast: I return the glazed cauliflower to the oven and roast for an additional 5–7 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly.

8. Serve: I garnish the cauliflower with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spice Level: I can adjust the amount of sriracha sauce to make the dish milder or spicier according to my preference.

• Sweetness: I can substitute honey with maple syrup for a different sweet profile.

• Add-ins: I sometimes add chopped green onions or bell peppers to the cauliflower before roasting for added flavor and color.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, I spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore its crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

While fresh cauliflower yields the best texture, I can use frozen florets if necessary. I ensure they are thawed and patted dry before seasoning and roasting.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the cauliflower and sauce in advance. I store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before roasting.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as I use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I use this recipe as a main dish?

Absolutely! I often serve this sweet and spicy cauliflower over rice or quinoa for a satisfying vegetarian main course.

How do I know when the cauliflower is done?

The cauliflower is done when it is golden brown and crispy on the edges. I check for tenderness by piercing a floret with a fork.

Conclusion

This Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors, along with the crispy texture, makes it a delightful addition to any meal. Whether I’m serving it as a side dish or enjoying it on its own, it’s always a hit. I love how versatile and easy it is to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion.

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