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Sweet and Sour Baked Cauliflower

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Sweet and Sour Baked Cauliflower

Are you tired of bland vegetable dishes that leave your taste buds begging for excitement? Get ready to transform the humble cauliflower into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds! This Sweet and Sour Baked Cauliflower recipe is not just a side dish – it's a culinary adventure that combines crispy, caramelized florets with a tantalizing sweet and sour sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Perfect for health-conscious foodies, vegetarian enthusiasts, and anyone looking to elevate their vegetable game, this recipe promises restaurant-quality flavor right from your own kitchen.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

  1. 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
  2. 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce
  3. 2 tbsp olive oil
  4. 1 tbsp soy sauce
  5. 1 clove garlic, minced
  6. 1 tsp ginger, minced
  7. Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and cut it into uniform, bite-sized florets. Aim for pieces that are roughly 1-
  3. 5 inches in size to ensure even cooking.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger to create a flavorful marinade.
  5. Add cauliflower florets to the marinade and toss gently until each piece is evenly coated. Let the cauliflower sit in the marinade for 5-7 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  6. Spread the marinated cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting and browning.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning the florets halfway through to ensure even caramelization and crispy edges.
  8. Remove the cauliflower from the oven and drizzle sweet and sour sauce over the roasted florets, tossing gently to coat evenly.
  9. Return the sauced cauliflower to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize slightly.
  10. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with sesame seeds for garnish and added texture.
  11. Let the cauliflower cool for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and prevent burning.
  12. Serve hot as a side dish or appetizer, optionally with additional sweet and sour sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips

  1. Size Matters: Cut your cauliflower florets into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
  2. Don't Overcrowd: Use a large baking sheet and spread florets in a single layer to achieve that perfect roasted texture. Overcrowding will steam the cauliflower instead of roasting it.
  3. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Let the cauliflower sit in the marinade for at least 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to fully penetrate.
  4. Flip Halfway: Turning the florets midway through cooking ensures even browning and prevents burning.
  5. Watch the Sauce: When adding the sweet and sour sauce, keep an eye on the cauliflower to prevent burning. The final 5-7 minutes are crucial for caramelization.
  6. Serve Immediately: Enjoy the cauliflower hot for the best texture and most vibrant flavors.
  7. Optional Enhancements: Experiment with adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat or extra sesame seeds for added crunch.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 95kcal

Carbohydrates: 12g

Protein: 3g

Fat: 5g

Saturated Fat: 1g

Cholesterol: 0mg

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