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Spicy Honey Garlic Cauliflower Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 22 reviews
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Spicy Honey Garlic Cauliflower is a deliciously crispy roasted dish featuring golden cauliflower florets tossed in a sweet and spicy honey garlic sauce. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or a side dish, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of honey with the heat of chili flakes and the savoriness of soy sauce for a delightful plant-based treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Cauliflower

  • 1 medium cauliflower

Coating

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (or to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon cold water (optional, for thicker sauce)

Garnish (Optional)

  • Sesame seeds
  • Chopped chives

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 400°F). Wash and dry the cauliflower thoroughly, then cut it into small, evenly sized florets to ensure even cooking.
  2. Coat the florets: Place the cauliflower florets in a large bowl. Add the vegetable oil, season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle the cornstarch over them. Mix thoroughly so every piece is evenly coated, which helps achieve a crispy texture during baking.
  3. Roast the cauliflower: Spread the coated florets in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through to ensure even browning. The cauliflower should become golden and crispy.
  4. Prepare the sauce: While the cauliflower roasts, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, chili flakes, and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil then reduce to a simmer. Stir continuously for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Thicken the sauce (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch in 1 tablespoon cold water and stir this mixture into the saucepan. Simmer for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
  6. Combine cauliflower and sauce: Remove the roasted cauliflower from the oven and immediately pour the hot sauce over the florets. Gently toss to coat all pieces evenly with the flavorful sauce.
  7. Serve: Serve the spicy honey garlic cauliflower immediately, topped with sesame seeds and chopped chives if desired, for an extra touch of texture and flavor.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
  • Adjust chili flakes according to your preferred spice level.
  • Ensure cauliflower florets are roughly the same size for even roasting.
  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor in the sauce.
  • The sauce thickening step is optional but yields a richer coating.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.