Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower Recipe
This Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower recipe features tender cauliflower florets roasted to perfection and coated in a flavorful glaze of chili sauce, honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Garnished with fresh chives or green onions, it makes a delicious appetizer or side dish with a balance of heat and sweetness.
- Author: liam
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Cauliflower
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
Seasoning and Roasting
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Glaze
- 1/4 cup chili sauce (sriracha, gochujang, or your favorite)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Toss Cauliflower: In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, tossing well so each piece is evenly coated.
- Roast Cauliflower: Spread the cauliflower florets out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Prepare Glaze: While the cauliflower roasts, mix the chili sauce, honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat and simmer gently for 3-5 minutes to meld the flavors and slightly thicken the glaze.
- Toss with Glaze: Once the cauliflower is roasted, transfer it to a large bowl and toss with the prepared sweet and spicy glaze until well coated.
- Final Bake: Return the glazed cauliflower to the baking sheet and bake for another 5-7 minutes to allow the glaze to set and caramelize slightly on the florets.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the cauliflower from the oven, sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions for fresh flavor and color, then serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Notes
- Use your favorite chili sauce such as sriracha or gochujang to customize the spice level and flavor.
- Flipping the cauliflower halfway during roasting helps achieve even browning and crispiness.
- For a vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount of chili sauce or choose a milder sauce.
- Make sure to spread the cauliflower in a single layer to avoid steaming and to ensure crisp edges.
Keywords: baked cauliflower, sweet and spicy cauliflower, roasted cauliflower appetizer, healthy cauliflower recipe, vegetarian appetizer