Ingredients:

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)

2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)

1 tablespoon sesame oil

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

Sesame seeds, for garnish

Chopped green onions, for garnish

Preparing the Cauliflower

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help to achieve that perfect crispy texture on the cauliflower.

While the oven is heating, wash the cauliflower thoroughly under cold water. Make sure to remove any dirt or debris.

Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the cauliflower is well-coated with the oil and spices.

Roasting the Cauliflower

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded; this will help them roast properly and get crispy.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the cauliflower for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender. Halfway through the roasting time, give them a good toss to ensure even cooking.

Making the BBQ Teriyaki Sauce

While the cauliflower is roasting, its time to prepare the BBQ teriyaki sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the teriyaki sauce, honey or maple syrup (if using), sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Stir well to combine.

Heat the saucepan over medium heat until the sauce begins to simmer. This will help to meld the flavors together.

Once the sauce is simmering, add the cornstarch mixed with water to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, which should take about 2-3 minutes. If it gets too thick, you can add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.

Remove the saucepan from heat and set it aside. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.

Coating the Cauliflower

Once the cauliflower is roasted to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help to prevent burns when you coat them with the sauce.

Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a large mixing bowl. Pour the thickened BBQ teriyaki sauce over the cauliflower, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss the cauliflower in the sauce.

For an extra layer of flavor, you can return the coated cauliflower to the baking sheet and roast them for an additional 5-10 minutes. This will caramelize the sauce slightly and enhance the sticky texture.

Serving the Sticky BBQ Teriyaki Cauliflower

Once the cauliflower is nicely coated and caramelized, remove it from the oven (if you chose to roast it again) and let it cool for a minute.

Transfer the sticky BBQ teriyaki cauliflower to a serving platter. This dish is perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course if youre looking for a plant-based option.

Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a pop of color and added flavor.

Serve immediately while its warm and sticky. You can pair it with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this Sticky BBQ Teriyaki Cauliflower recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their plant-based meals. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the satisfying texture of the cauliflower, makes it a standout dish that can easily impress both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Whether you serve it as a main course, a side dish, or even as a fun appetizer at your next gathering, its sure to be a hit! For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delicious cauliflower with a side of fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up all that sticky goodness. You could also toss in some steamed broccoli or snap peas for a pop of color and added nutrition. If youre feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. I encourage you to give this Sticky BBQ Teriyaki Cauliflower a try and make it your own! Feel free to experiment with different sauces or spices to suit your taste. Once youve made it, Id love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, variations, or even a photo of your creation! Lets spread the love for this delightful dish together. Happy cooking!