Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower Recipe
Introduction
Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines tender roasted cauliflower with a zesty sweet chili sauce. It’s perfect as a snack, side, or a healthy vegetarian option for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons oil (olive oil or vegetable oil)
- 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the oil, sweet chili sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to make a flavorful sauce.
- Step 3: Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Step 4: Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 5: Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and caramelized with slightly crispy edges.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm.
Tips & Variations
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Try using honey or maple syrup with a splash of soy sauce as an alternative to sweet chili sauce.
- If you prefer softer cauliflower, cover the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes and then bake uncovered to caramelize.
Storage
Store leftover baked cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or in a warm oven to keep it crispy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw and drain any excess moisture before coating and baking to avoid soggy results.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It is naturally gluten-free if your sweet chili sauce does not contain gluten ingredients. Always check labels to be sure.
PrintSweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower Recipe
This Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower recipe features tender cauliflower florets coated in a flavorful blend of sweet chili sauce and spices, then baked to caramelized perfection. It’s a delicious, healthy side or snack that’s easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cauliflower
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons oil (such as olive oil or vegetable oil)
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for a high heat bake that will caramelize the cauliflower nicely.
- Prepare Cauliflower: Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, ensuring consistent sizes for even cooking.
- Mix Sauce and Spices: In a large bowl, combine the oil, sweet chili sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a smooth coating mixture.
- Coat Cauliflower: Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl with the sauce and toss thoroughly until each piece is evenly coated.
- Bake: Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and caramelized on the edges.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a tasty side dish or a healthy snack.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- You can substitute sweet chili sauce with a mix of honey and chili flakes if you prefer to control the sweetness and spice level.
- This dish is great served with a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for added freshness.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
Keywords: baked cauliflower, sweet and spicy cauliflower, healthy side dish, vegetarian recipe, caramelized cauliflower
