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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
