Description
Craving something crispy, flavorful, and irresistibly sweet yet spicy? Crispy Thai sweet chili cauliflower delivers all that and more. Baked to golden perfection and coated in a tangy Thai sweet chili sauce, these bite-sized florets are a healthier, guilt-free snack, side dish, or appetizer. Simple to make, this recipe will impress your taste buds and guests alike!
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium or large head of cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking oil spray
- 2 large eggs (whisked)
- 2 scallions (finely sliced (for garnish))
Sauce:
- 1 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp sriracha sauce (optional, for extra spice)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to preheat. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and giving it a light mist of cooking spray.
- Prepare the Coating: Place the whisked eggs in one shallow bowl and the panko breadcrumbs in another. Dip each cauliflower floret into the eggs, then coat with the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.
- Bake the Cauliflower: Arrange the breaded florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the cauliflower bakes, combine the Thai sweet chili sauce, water, cornstarch, garlic powder, and sriracha (if using) in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Toss and Serve: Once the cauliflower is baked, place it in a large bowl. Pour the sauce over the florets and gently toss until evenly coated.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Transfer the coated cauliflower to a serving dish. Sprinkle with finely sliced scallions and serve immediately.
Notes
- Spiciness: For a milder version, omit the sriracha. For extra spice, add red pepper flakes or more sriracha.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the breadcrumbs may lose their crispness upon reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Thai-inspired