🍽️ Crispy Sweet & Spicy Glazed Cauliflower
Golden roasted cauliflower florets tossed in a glossy sauce that balances sweetness, heat, and tang. The edges get caramelized and slightly charred, while the inside stays tender. It’s a great appetizer, side dish, or even a meatless main.
🛒 Ingredients
For the cauliflower
- 1 large head cauliflower (cut into bite-size florets)
- 3 tbsp cornstarch (or all-purpose flour)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
For the sauce
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp chili sauce (like sriracha or sweet chili sauce)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp rice vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1–2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Optional: ½ tsp chili flakes (for extra heat)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (chopped)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Prep the cauliflower
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Pat florets dry (important for crispiness).
- Toss with cornstarch, oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
2. Roast
- Spread on a lined baking sheet (don’t overcrowd).
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and browned.
3. Make the sauce
- In a pan over medium heat, combine:
honey, chili sauce, soy sauce, ketchup, vinegar, garlic. - Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Toss & caramelize
- Add roasted cauliflower to the sauce and toss well.
- Optional: return to oven for 5–10 minutes for extra stickiness and char.
5. Serve
- Garnish with herbs and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot.
❓ Q&A
Q: How do I make it extra crispy?
A:
- Dry the cauliflower thoroughly before coating.
- Don’t overcrowd the tray.
- Use convection (fan) if your oven has it.
Q: Can I air fry instead?
A: Yes! Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway, then toss in sauce.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Absolutely—swap honey for maple syrup or agave.
Q: Is this very spicy?
A: It’s mildly spicy. Adjust by:
- Adding more chili sauce for heat
- Using less for a sweeter version
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Best fresh, but you can:
- Roast cauliflower ahead
- Reheat and toss in sauce just before serving
Q: What can I serve this with?
- Rice or fried rice
- Noodles
- As a taco filling
- Alongside grilled proteins.