Description

Crispy, caramelized, and bursting with flavor, this Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower is a healthier, oven-roasted twist on your favorite takeout snack. Coated in a sticky glaze made from honey, garlic, soy sauce, and chili, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of sweet heat in every bite. Whether served as a party appetizer, meatless main, or side dish, this dish is guaranteed to please even cauliflower skeptics.

Ingredients

Scale

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
3 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp hot sauce (or to taste)
1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
2 tbsp green onions, sliced (for garnish)

1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil and cornstarch until evenly coated.
Spread cauliflower on the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
While cauliflower bakes, combine soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and hot sauce in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat until slightly thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
Remove cauliflower from oven and toss in the warm sauce until well coated.
Return to oven for an additional 5–10 minutes to caramelize the glaze.

Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately

Notes

For a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey.

Adjust the spice level to your liking with more or less hot sauce or chili flakes.

Avoid overcrowding the pan to help the cauliflower roast evenly.

Air fryer option: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Best enjoyed fresh; reheating may reduce crispiness

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Side Dish, Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Keywords: cauliflower, baked cauliflower, sweet and spicy, healthy snack, vegetarian recipe