Description
This Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower recipe offers a delightful combination of crispy roasted cauliflower florets coated in a sweet, tangy, and spicy glaze. Enhanced with garlic, smoked paprika, and sesame seeds, this Asian-inspired side dish is perfect for adding vibrant flavor to any meal and is a great vegetarian option.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower and Coating
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Sauce and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Cauliflower: In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets with olive oil, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Toss thoroughly until every floret is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Bake Cauliflower: Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through baking, until they are golden brown and have crispy edges.
- Make the Sauce: While the cauliflower bakes, whisk together honey, sriracha, and soy sauce in a small bowl to create the sweet and spicy glaze.
- Glaze and Caramelize: Remove the baked cauliflower from the oven and drizzle the sauce over the florets. Toss gently to ensure the cauliflower is well coated. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize and intensify in flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the glazed cauliflower to a serving plate and sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. Serve warm as a side dish or over rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the amount of sriracha according to your taste preferences.
- For a vegan version of this dish, substitute honey with maple syrup.
- This cauliflower dish can be served as a flavorful side or over steamed rice to make a satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
