This Thai Peanut Roasted Whole Cauliflower is an absolute showstopper! The cauliflower is roasted to tender perfection, allowing it to soak up the rich and creamy peanut sauce infused with hints of ginger, sesame, and sriracha. The contrast of flavors nutty, savory, slightly sweet, and just the right amount of heat creates an unforgettable dish. What makes this dish even better is its versatility! It can be served as a stunning plant-based main course or a flavorful side. The extra peanut sauce can be used for grilled veggies, tossed with noodles, or even drizzled over salads. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests, this Thai-inspired roasted cauliflower is a must-try!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup smooth, creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup liquid aminos or gluten-free soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or agave (or sugar-free honey)
- 6 tbsp mild-tasting oil (avocado, olive oil, etc.)
- 4 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 tbsp fresh grated ginger
- 2-4 tsp sriracha (to taste)
- 1 head of cauliflower
- Optional Garnishes: 2 tbsp chopped green onions, 2 tbsp chopped salted peanuts & extra sriracha
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, oil, sesame oil, ginger, and sriracha until smooth.
- Remove the leaves from the cauliflower and trim the stem so it sits evenly in the pan.
- Place the cauliflower in a cast-iron skillet or an oven-safe baking dish. Generously brush the sauce all over the cauliflower. Cover with foil.
- Roast for 40-50 minutes, or until a knife easily pierces through the cauliflower.
- Remove the foil and brush on another layer of sauce. Place under the broiler for 2-4 minutes for a crispier texture.
- Repeat the process, brushing on more sauce and broiling briefly to build a thick, flavorful glaze.
- Remove from the oven, brush with a final layer of sauce, and sprinkle with green onions, peanuts, and additional sriracha if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: ~290 kcal per serving | Servings: 4-5
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. A Unique Take on a Classic Dish
Roasting a whole cauliflower might seem unusual at first, but it’s one of the best ways to highlight this vegetable’s natural flavors. While roasted cauliflower florets are a common side dish, cooking it whole creates a centerpiece-worthy meal that is sure to impress. The process allows the cauliflower to remain tender on the inside while developing a lightly crisp, caramelized outer layer.
2. A Burst of Thai Flavors
What sets this recipe apart is the rich, creamy Thai peanut sauce that coats the cauliflower. Made with peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, fresh ginger, and a hint of sriracha, the sauce brings a combination of savory, nutty, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors that make each bite irresistible. It’s the perfect way to elevate a simple roasted cauliflower into something truly spectacular.
3. Healthy and Nutritious
Cauliflower is a nutrient-dense vegetable packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. It is low in calories yet high in essential nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. This dish is also:
- Vegan and Plant-Based – No animal products are used, making it ideal for a plant-forward diet.
- Gluten-Free – By using gluten-free soy sauce or liquid aminos, this dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly – While it contains peanut butter and honey, substitutions can be made to lower the carb count for keto followers.
- Dairy-Free and Easily Customizable – No dairy is needed, and the sauce can be adapted to different dietary needs.
4. A Versatile Dish
Another fantastic feature of this recipe is its versatility. It can be enjoyed in multiple ways:
- As a Main Course – This whole roasted cauliflower can be served as the star of a meal, paired with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
- As a Side Dish – Serve it alongside grilled tofu, tempeh, or even a protein of choice for a balanced meal.
- With Extra Sauce for Other Dishes – The peanut sauce is so delicious that any leftovers can be used as a salad dressing, a marinade for grilled vegetables, or even as a dip for spring rolls.
Tips for the Perfect Thai Peanut Roasted Cauliflower
1. Choosing the Right Cauliflower
When selecting a cauliflower for this recipe, opt for a fresh, firm head with tightly packed florets. The size of the cauliflower will determine cooking time, so make sure to adjust accordingly. A medium to large head works best to soak up all the delicious sauce.
2. The Magic of Roasting
Roasting cauliflower whole allows for a beautiful balance of texture and taste. The trick is to start by covering it with foil, allowing it to steam in the oven and cook evenly. Once it is fork-tender, removing the foil and broiling it creates a slightly crispy, caramelized crust.
3. Maximizing Flavor with the Peanut Sauce
The Thai peanut sauce is the highlight of this dish, so make sure to coat the cauliflower generously. Applying layers of sauce throughout the roasting process ensures that the flavors fully infuse into the vegetable. If you like it extra saucy, save some for drizzling on top before serving!
4. Spice Level Customization
This recipe includes sriracha for a bit of heat, but you can adjust it according to your spice preference. If you love bold flavors, increase the sriracha or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a milder version, simply reduce the amount or leave it out entirely.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice or Brown Rice – The neutral taste of rice balances the bold flavors of the peanut sauce.
- Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice – A lighter, protein-packed alternative.
- Asian Slaw – A fresh and crunchy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing complements the roasted cauliflower perfectly.
- Noodles – Serve with rice noodles or zucchini noodles for an extra satisfying meal.
For garnish, sprinkle chopped green onions, toasted peanuts, and a drizzle of extra sriracha on top to enhance both flavor and presentation.
Why This Dish is a Crowd-Pleaser
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is always a hit. It’s not just about the taste it’s also about the experience of serving a whole roasted cauliflower, slicing into it, and watching as the sauce drizzles down its golden crust. It’s an excellent choice for dinner parties, special occasions, or even a cozy night in.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you love planning ahead, this dish is great for meal prepping. You can:
✔️ Make the peanut sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
✔️ Roast the cauliflower ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
✔️ Use leftover sauce for other meals throughout the week.
Conclusion:
The Thai Peanut Roasted Whole Cauliflower is a delightful dish that perfectly balances health, flavor, and versatility. With its rich peanut sauce, tender texture, and beautiful presentation, it’s a great way to elevate cauliflower to new heights. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or simply a lover of bold flavors, this dish is a must-try.