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Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower

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This sweet and spicy baked cauliflower recipe delivers crispy, caramelized florets coated in a bold honey-sriracha glaze with hints of garlic, cumin, and soy sauce. Perfect as a healthy snack, flavorful appetizer, or vibrant side dish, it’s quick to prepare, customizable for any spice level, and naturally gluten-free with a vegan option.

Ingredients

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
  • Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut cauliflower into even-sized florets for consistent cooking.
  3. In a large bowl, toss florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin until smooth.
  5. Pour glaze over cauliflower and toss well to coat each piece.
  6. Arrange florets in a single layer on the baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding.
  7. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden-brown and slightly crisp on the edges.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds before serving, if desired.

Notes

  • Swap sriracha with chipotle hot sauce for a smokier flavor.
  • Drizzle lime juice over the finished cauliflower for brightness.
  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika for depth.
  • Use sugar-free maple syrup instead of honey for a lower-sugar version.
  • For a vegan option, replace honey with agave nectar or maple syrup.
  • Air fryer method: Cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven at 375°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/sweet-and-spicy-baked-cauliflower/