Irresistible Crispy Cauliflower with Honey and Hot Pepper Flakes: A Flavorful Delight

Have you ever found yourself in a culinary conundrum, with guests on the way and the need for a new, exciting side dish? That’s precisely how this delectable recipe for Crispy Cauliflower With Honey and Hot Pepper Flakes was born. With a dash of ingenuity and a pinch of pressure, a scrumptious surprise emerged. Imagine crispy, creamy cauliflower drizzled with honey and adorned with hot pepper flakes, a flavor revelation reminiscent of the beloved crispy hot honey chicken.

This delightful recipe is excerpted from ‘Big Heart Little Stove’ by Erin French, offering a glimpse into the world of innovative cauliflower creations. Before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore the key ingredients and the step-by-step process to achieve this culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients

To serve 6 to 8 people, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 medium head cauliflower, cored and cut into 2-inch florets
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1½ cups club soda
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• Neutral oil (for deep-frying)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1½ teaspoons chile flakes
• Grated zest of half a lemon
• Maldon salt

The Crispy Cauliflower Magic Unveiled

Now, let’s embark on a flavorful journey by following these steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 450°F.

Step 2: Roasting the Cauliflower

• In a large bowl, coat the cauliflower florets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to your taste.
• Spread the seasoned cauliflower evenly on a baking sheet and roast it until it reaches a delightful crisp-tender state, typically around 5 minutes. Allow it to cool for a bit.

Step 3: Preparing the Batter

• In a medium-sized bowl, combine the club soda and flour to create a batter; set it aside for later use.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

• In a deep fryer or a large, deep skillet, heat a few inches of neutral oil to 375°F.

Step 5: Dredge and Fry

• In a separate large bowl, lightly dust the roasted cauliflower with flour.
• Working in manageable batches, coat the cauliflower florets with the prepared batter.
• Fry these battered florets until they turn a delicious golden color, typically within 2 to 3 minutes. Remember not to overcrowd the oil, as this can lead to soggy results.

Step 6: The Final Touch

• Transfer the hot fried cauliflower to a serving platter.
• Drizzle the cauliflower with honey for a touch of sweetness.
• Sprinkle the chile flakes, lemon zest, and generous pinches of Maldon salt over the cauliflower to infuse it with a burst of flavor.

There you have it, a culinary masterpiece born from necessity and crafted with precision. Erin French’s recipe for Crispy Cauliflower With Honey and Hot Pepper Flakes is a delightful surprise for your taste buds. It’s a fantastic side dish to accompany any meal, and it showcases the versatility of cauliflower in the world of gastronomy.

So, when you find yourself in a rush to impress your guests with a delectable treat, remember this crispy cauliflower creation. Enjoy it straight from the frying pan, piping hot and bursting with flavor. Your taste buds will thank you for this delightful discovery!

For more cauliflower-inspired recipes, be sure to explore ‘Big Heart Little Stove’ by Erin French, available on Amazon.

Note: All products featured on Epicurious are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Ingredient Variations and Innovations

How do you make crispy cauliflower?

Creating crispy cauliflower can be a quick and efficient process. Here’s a simple method:

1. Prepare the Cauliflower:

• Start by chopping the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.

2. Season and Toss:

• Toss the cauliflower with a drizzle of oil and your preferred seasonings to infuse flavor.

3. Stovetop Searing:

• Place the seasoned cauliflower in a hot pan over medium-high heat. Sear it until you achieve a crispy and beautifully browned exterior.

4. Oven Finish:

• Transfer the seared cauliflower to the oven and roast it for 10-15 minutes. This step ensures that the cauliflower becomes slightly tender while retaining those delightful crispy edges.

This method provides you with a delightful and crispy cauliflower dish that’s perfect as a standalone snack or as a flavorful addition to your meals.

How do you eat Cornflake cauliflower?

Indulging in Cornflake-crusted cauliflower is a delightful experience. Follow these steps to savor these crispy treats:

1. Baking the Cauliflower:

• Start with cornflake-crusted cauliflower baked on a sheet pan until it’s perfectly crispy and delicious.

2. Sweet Honey Sauce:

• Each cauliflower "wing" is tossed in a sweet honey sauce, blended with the ideal combination of spices and a touch of sea salt for that perfect flavor balance.

3. Creamy Dipping Sauce:

• To enhance the experience, serve these little delicacies with a homemade creamy sauce that complements the crispy texture and adds a creamy touch to each bite.

4. Perfect Appetizer:

• Altogether, this combination creates a mouthwatering appetizer, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Enjoy the fusion of crispy cauliflower, sweet honey sauce, and a creamy dip, creating a taste sensation that’s sure to please your taste buds.

How long do you cook cauliflower in the oven?

Cooking cauliflower in the oven is a breeze with this straightforward method. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Preparation:

• Begin by chopping the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with a drizzle of oil and your preferred seasonings to add flavor.

2. Stovetop Searing:

• Heat a pan over medium-high heat and sear the cauliflower until it attains a crispy, beautifully browned exterior.

3. Oven Roasting:

• Next, transfer the seared cauliflower to the oven and roast it for approximately 10-15 minutes. This duration is sufficient to achieve cauliflower that’s slightly tender while retaining those delightful crispy edges.

This method offers a hassle-free way to cook cauliflower in the oven, resulting in a delectable side dish or snack. It’s simplicity at its finest!

How do you make a fried cauliflower sauce?

Creating a delectable sauce to complement your fried cauliflower is a simple process. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Gather Your Ingredients:

• Combine soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, and a touch of Sriracha in a small saucepan. These ingredients will form the base of your flavorful sauce.

2. Heat and Thicken:

• Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. As it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
• Add a mixture of cornstarch (cornstarch mixed with water) to the simmering sauce. This will help thicken the sauce to the desired consistency, typically in about 2 minutes.

3. Coat the Cauliflower:

• Once your sauce has reached the desired thickness, toss your fried cauliflower in the sauce. Ensure each piece is evenly coated with the delectable mixture.

By following these simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly complements your fried cauliflower, enhancing its flavor and adding a delightful kick to your dish.

What to eat with cauliflower florets?

Cauliflower florets can be transformed into a delectable side dish with just a few simple steps. Here’s how to enjoy them:

1. Flavorful Roasting:

• Combine cauliflower florets with a savory mixture of garlic and grated Parmesan cheese. Roast this blend until the florets become tender, achieving a delightful golden hue and a touch of crispiness on the exterior.

2. Versatile Pairing:

• These roasted cauliflower florets make an excellent accompaniment to your weeknight dinner, serving as a flavorful side dish. Whether it’s a casual family meal or part of a special holiday feast, they add a delicious and savory touch to your plate.

By infusing cauliflower florets with garlic and Parmesan cheese and then roasting them to perfection, you can create a versatile side dish that complements a wide range of entrees, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

What is Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower?

Parmesan roasted cauliflower is a delightful culinary creation that can transform your perception of cauliflower, especially if you’ve been hesitant about this vegetable. Here’s what it entails:

• Cauliflower Elevation:

• In this dish, cauliflower florets take center stage. They are skillfully combined with a savory blend of garlic and Parmesan cheese, resulting in a flavorful concoction that enhances the cauliflower’s natural taste.

• The Roasting Magic:

• The true alchemy occurs during the roasting process. The prepared cauliflower florets are roasted until they achieve a state of tenderness, a beautiful golden hue, and a touch of crispiness on the exterior. This transformative cooking method infuses the florets with an irresistible medley of flavors and textures.

Parmesan roasted cauliflower is a delectable way to relish fresh cauliflower, offering a harmonious balance of savory richness and enticing crispiness that can win over even the most skeptical cauliflower connoisseurs.

How do you make a roast cauliflower?

Creating perfectly roasted cauliflower is straightforward, and it allows for customization based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry. Here’s a simple guide:

1. Ingredient Flexibility:

• Feel free to swap out the raisins, almonds, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes for your choice of flavorful dried fruits, nuts, and spices. Let your creativity and taste buds guide you.

2. Two Crucial Tips:

• To ensure consistently golden-brown roast cauliflower:
• Use a high-heat oven, which brings out the natural sweetness and crispiness of the cauliflower.
• Ensure that the cauliflower pieces are spread out on an uncrowded baking sheet. This allows for even roasting, preventing overcrowding, and resulting in that perfect golden-brown finish every time.

By following these straightforward steps and embracing ingredient flexibility, you can create roast cauliflower customized to your liking, with a beautifully golden-brown exterior that’s sure to please your palate.

Is roasted cauliflower healthy?

Roasted cauliflower offers a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. The roasting process enhances its natural nutty flavors, creating a delightful culinary experience. Here’s why Parmesan roasted cauliflower is a healthy choice:

• Nutrient Retention:

• Roasting preserves the cauliflower’s essential nutrients, making it a wholesome addition to your diet.

• Low-Calorie Goodness:

• Cauliflower is naturally low in calories, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

• Vitamins and Fiber:

• It’s a rich source of vitamins and dietary fiber, supporting overall well-being.

• Flavorful and Satisfying:

• The enhanced flavors make it a tasty and satisfying side dish, encouraging you to enjoy more vegetables in your meals.

So, rest assured that roasted cauliflower, such as Parmesan roasted cauliflower, is not only delicious but also a healthy option that can be enjoyed by everyone, even those who may not consider themselves cauliflower enthusiasts.