Name: Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower is a bold, flavor-packed dish that perfectly balances crispy roasted cauliflower with a sticky glaze of sweet chili, soy sauce, and sriracha. This recipe makes a great plant-based main dish, appetizer, or side, offering a savory yet spicy kick that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re a cauliflower fan or just looking to try something new, this dish offers an irresistible combination of heat and sweetness that works for any occasion.

Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower recipe brings together the perfect combination of flavors. The cauliflower is roasted to perfection, crispy on the outside yet tender inside, and then tossed in a delicious glaze made of sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, and honey. The result is a dish that offers a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, making it a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a plant-based main. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, taking just 45 minutes to make!

Ingredients

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

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/3 cup sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Spread the florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Roast the cauliflower for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
In a small saucepan, combine sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, and honey. Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens.
Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a bowl and toss with the warm glaze until evenly coated.
Return the glazed cauliflower to the oven and roast for another 5–8 minutes to allow the glaze to set.
Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Make it Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep this dish gluten-free.
Adjust the Heat Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of sriracha or substitute it with a milder chili garlic sauce.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts, for a more colorful and hearty dish.
Vegan Option: Swap honey for maple syrup to keep the recipe entirely plant-based.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover baked cauliflower in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the cauliflower on a baking sheet and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a microwave for 1-2 minutes, but the crispy texture may be compromised.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

While fresh cauliflower works best for achieving a crispy texture, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just make sure to thaw it and pat it dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cauliflower and roast it in advance, then toss it with the glaze and return it to the oven for the final roasting just before serving.

3. Can I use a different sauce instead of sweet chili sauce?

You can experiment with other sauces like hoisin sauce, teriyaki, or a homemade barbecue sauce. The flavor will be different, but still delicious.

4. Can I make this recipe spicier?

If you like extra heat, you can increase the amount of sriracha or add red pepper flakes to the glaze. Just be mindful to adjust the spice level to your liking!

5. How do I ensure the cauliflower is crispy?

Make sure to spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet, and flip it halfway through roasting for even cooking and crisping.

6. Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower is naturally low in carbs, making it a great choice for those following low-carb or keto diets.

7. Can I grill the cauliflower instead of baking it?

Yes, you can grill the cauliflower on medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, flipping occasionally. Just be sure to brush it with oil and seasonings before grilling.

8. How can I make this recipe spicier without sriracha?

If you don’t have sriracha, you can use other hot sauces or chili garlic sauce to add heat to the dish. You can also add finely chopped fresh chilies for an extra kick.

9. Can I use other sweeteners instead of honey?

Yes, maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar can be used as alternatives to honey, depending on your preference or dietary needs.

10. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the glaze is too thin, let it simmer over low heat for a few extra minutes to thicken, or you can add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

Conclusion

Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower is the perfect dish for anyone looking for a combination of heat and sweetness. With its crispy texture and flavorful glaze, this recipe works as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and incredibly delicious, making it a great addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will definitely impress!