Save Bring the vibrant and bold tastes of the Caribbean into your kitchen with this Jerk Seasoning Roasted Cauliflower. This dish transforms simple cauliflower into a fiery, aromatic masterpiece that captures the essence of Jamaican cuisine in a completely plant-based way.
Save With just 10 minutes of preparation, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a side dish that packs a punch. The combination of savory garlic and onion with warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon creates a depth of flavor that is truly addictive.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- Jerk Seasoning Blend: 1 ½ teaspoons ground allspice, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste), ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Marinade: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- In a small bowl, mix all the jerk seasoning blend ingredients.
- Step 3
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, and soy sauce. Add the jerk seasoning blend and whisk to form a marinade.
- Step 4
- Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss thoroughly, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Step 5
- Spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 6
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden, crispy, and cooked through.
- Step 7
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or lime wedges if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure maximum flavor, make sure the cauliflower florets are completely dry before tossing them in the marinade. Turning the florets halfway through the roasting time is crucial for even browning. If you prefer an even crunchier texture, finish the dish under the broiler for 2–3 minutes at the very end.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly customizable. You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to find your perfect heat level. For a soy-free version, replace the soy sauce with coconut aminos or omit it entirely. You can also experiment with adding a touch of brown sugar to the seasoning blend for a hint of sweetness to balance the heat.
Serviervorschläge
These jerk-seasoned florets are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a standout side dish, toss them into a nourishing grain bowl with quinoa and black beans, or use them as a spicy, plant-based filling for street tacos. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving adds a bright acidity that perfectly complements the warm spices.
Save This flavorful Jamaican-inspired dish provides 110 calories and 4g of protein per serving, making it a healthy and exciting way to enjoy your vegetables. Enjoy the bold, smoky, and spicy flavors of this Jerk Seasoning Roasted Cauliflower!
Recipe FAQs
- → How spicy is jerk cauliflower?
The heat level is customizable with the cayenne pepper. Using ½ teaspoon provides a mild to medium warmth that's family-friendly. For authentic Jamaican heat, increase to 1 teaspoon or add fresh scotch bonnet peppers when serving.
- → Can I make this ahead?
Prepare the spice blend up to 2 weeks in advance and store in an airtight container. Coat and roast the cauliflower fresh for optimal texture, though leftovers reheat beautifully at 400°F for 10 minutes.
- → What pairs well with jerk spiced cauliflower?
Serve alongside grilled meats, rice and peas, or plantain for a complete Jamaican-inspired meal. The bold flavors also complement mild grains like coconut rice, quinoa, or couscous perfectly.
- → Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh cauliflower yields the crispiest results. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry thoroughly before coating to prevent sogginess. Expect slightly softer texture compared to fresh.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 400°F oven for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness, or enjoy cold in salads and grain bowls.