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Sticky Honey Garlic Cauliflower

Close-up of Sticky Honey Garlic Cauliflower florets coated in a glossy sauce, topped with sesame seeds and green onions.

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Prepare crispy cauliflower florets coated in a thick, sweet, and savory honey garlic glaze. This recipe works well baked or air-fried.

Ingredients

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  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (slurry)
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or set your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper if baking.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet or in the air fryer basket.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, or air fry for 15-18 minutes until the edges are lightly browned and tender-crisp.
  5. While the cauliflower cooks, prepare the sauce: In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using).
  6. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
  7. Whisk the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens significantly, about 1 minute. Remove from heat immediately.
  8. Once the cauliflower is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the thickened honey garlic sauce over the hot cauliflower. Toss gently until every piece is well coated and sticky.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Notes

  • To prevent the honey from burning, do not add the sauce until the cauliflower is already cooked and crispy.
  • For extra crispiness in the oven, toss the raw cauliflower lightly with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch before adding the oil and seasoning.
  • If you prefer an air fryer method, toss the cooked cauliflower with the sauce immediately after removing it from the basket.

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