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Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 95 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Cauliflower:
  • 1 large head cauliflower cut into bite-sized florets
  • Cooking oil spray
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos for a soy-free option
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 teaspoon gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent
  • For Garnish:
  • 1 tablespoon green onions sliced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have space to roast evenly. Lightly spray the florets with cooking oil, then season generously with garlic salt, salt, and pepper. Toss the cauliflower gently to ensure every piece is well-coated with the seasoning blend.
  • Step 2: Roast the Cauliflower
  • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges of the cauliflower begin to turn golden brown and caramelize. The florets should be tender when pierced with a fork but still maintain some firmness for the perfect texture.
  • Step 3: Make the Sweet and Spicy Sauce
  • While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare your flavorful sauce by combining honey, minced garlic, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), sriracha sauce, hoisin sauce, and gluten-free flour or cornstarch in a small saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking continuously for 4-5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken and develops a glossy sheen that will beautifully coat the roasted cauliflower.
  • Step 4: Coat the Cauliflower
  • Remove the perfectly roasted cauliflower from the oven and allow it to cool for 2-3 minutes. Transfer the warm florets to a large mixing bowl, then pour the sweet and spicy sauce over them. Using a large spoon or tongs, gently toss the cauliflower until every piece is thoroughly coated with the luscious sauce.
  • Step 5: Garnish and Serve
  • Transfer your Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower to a beautiful serving dish and sprinkle with fresh sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. The vibrant colors and aromatic garnishes add the perfect finishing touch. Serve immediately while the cauliflower is warm and the sauce is at its most flavorful.