Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower is a deliciously crispy and flavorful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of honey with a kick of heat from sriracha or chili flakes. This roasted cauliflower is perfectly seasoned, with the right balance of savory, sweet, and spicy, making it a standout dish that works as a snack, side, or even a meatless main course. It’s a healthy, simple, and quick recipe that’s packed with flavor and can easily be customized to your preferred spice level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower offers an irresistible contrast of crispy edges and tender florets, all coated in a delicious sweet and spicy glaze. The cauliflower gets roasted to perfection, soaking up the flavors of the sauce. It’s a healthy, plant-based dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for those who want to eat more vegetables without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb side dish or just want to try something new, this cauliflower will become your new favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan version)

• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (or chili paste, depending on your heat preference)

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish, optional)

• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

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

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Cauliflower: Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Make sure they are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.

3. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if you want extra heat.

4. Toss the Cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets in a large bowl and pour the sauce over them. Toss the cauliflower well to ensure all the florets are evenly coated in the sauce.

5. Roast the Cauliflower: Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping the cauliflower halfway through the cooking time, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy on the edges.

6. Garnish and Serve: Once the cauliflower is roasted, remove it from the oven. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately as a side dish, appetizer, or snack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 (as a side)

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Version: Use maple syrup in place of honey to make this dish vegan-friendly.

• Spicy Kick: Increase the sriracha or chili paste if you love extra heat. You can also add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to kick up the spice level.

• Crispy Cauliflower: For extra crispiness, toss the cauliflower with a tablespoon of cornstarch before coating it with the sauce.

• Add Vegetables: This recipe works well with other vegetables like Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or carrots. Simply roast them on the same baking sheet for a mixed veggie dish.

• Add Nuts: For added texture, sprinkle chopped peanuts or cashews over the cauliflower before serving for a crunchy finish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover sweet and spicy baked cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the cauliflower in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until crispy again. You can also use an air fryer to reheat it for extra crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but fresh cauliflower will yield better results in terms of texture. If using frozen cauliflower, ensure it’s thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I use a different hot sauce instead of sriracha?

Yes, you can use any hot sauce you prefer, such as chili garlic sauce, sambal oelek, or even harissa for a different flavor profile. Adjust the amount based on your preferred spice level.

3. How do I get my cauliflower extra crispy?

To make the cauliflower extra crispy, ensure you spread the florets in a single layer on the baking sheet. You can also toss the cauliflower with a little cornstarch before adding the sauce for added crunch.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the cauliflower and toss it with the sauce ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a day, then roast it when you’re ready to serve.

5. Can I make this dish spicy without sriracha?

Yes, you can use red pepper flakes, hot chili oil, or other chili sauces to achieve the desired level of spice. Adjust the heat to your taste.

6. Can I add more flavor to the sauce?

Yes! You can add a little ginger or a splash of lime juice to the sauce for more depth of flavor. You can also experiment with adding soy sauce or coconut aminos for a different umami flavor.

7. How can I make this dish even more filling?

Serve the sweet and spicy baked cauliflower with a grain like rice, quinoa, or couscous to make it a more filling main course. It also works well with a side of protein like grilled chicken or tofu.

8. Can I make this dish in an air fryer?

Yes! You can cook the cauliflower in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This will result in an even crispier texture.

9. How do I store the sauce?

If you have leftover sauce, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Use it on other vegetables, proteins, or even as a dipping sauce.

10. Can I make this dish without honey?

Yes! If you prefer a savory version, you can skip the honey altogether or substitute with a little maple syrup or agave for sweetness.

Conclusion

Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. The crispy, caramelized edges and tender interior make this a crowd-pleasing side or snack. Whether you’re looking to add more vegetables to your meals or need a healthy, flavorful dish, this cauliflower recipe is quick, easy, and satisfying. Try it tonight and enjoy the delicious combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors!