Get ready to transform the humble cauliflower into a culinary masterpiece that will have your taste buds dancing with excitement! This isn't just another boring vegetable side dish - this is a sweet, spicy, and utterly irresistible recipe that will make even the most dedicated vegetable skeptics come back for seconds. With the perfect balance of caramelized maple syrup and a kick of jalapeno heat, this roasted cauliflower will become your new obsession in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 jalapeno, minced
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and carefully cut it into evenly sized florets, ensuring they are roughly the same size for uniform roasting.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, making sure each piece is lightly and evenly coated. Season with salt to distribute flavor.
- Spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting and caramelization.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, turning the florets halfway through to ensure even browning and crispy edges.
- While cauliflower is roasting, prepare the maple jalapeno glaze by combining maple syrup and minced jalapeno in a small bowl, whisking to blend the flavors.
- Remove the cauliflower from the oven when it's golden brown and slightly crisp at the edges. Immediately drizzle the maple jalapeno glaze over the hot florets.
- Return the glazed cauliflower to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes to caramelize the glaze and create a sticky, glossy finish.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
- Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy warm as a delicious side dish or vegetarian main course.
Tips
- Size Matters: Cut your cauliflower florets into uniform sizes to ensure even roasting and consistent texture.
- Don't Overcrowd: Use a large baking sheet and spread florets in a single layer to allow proper caramelization.
- High Heat is Key: Roasting at 425°F helps create those delicious crispy edges and golden-brown color.
- Freshness Counts: Use fresh jalapenos for the most vibrant flavor in your glaze.
- Customize the Heat: Remove jalapeno seeds for a milder glaze, or keep them in for extra spiciness.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the glaze is still sticky and warm.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, sweet-spicy flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
