Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

While fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just make sure to thaw and pat it dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this Moroccan Cauliflower with Honey recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?

Absolutely! You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a vegan-friendly alternative to honey.

Moroccan Cauliflower with Honey: Naturally Gluten-Free

Name: Moroccan Cauliflower with Honey
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: — The Cauliflower —; 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground turmeric; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; — The Honey Glaze —; ⅓ cup honey; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Harissa paste (optional, for a spicy kick) or a pinch of cayenne; — Garnish —; ¼ cup fresh cilantro or mint, chopped; ¼ cup toasted sliced almonds or pine nuts

Description

This Moroccan Cauliflower with Honey is a show-stopping side dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Roasted until golden and crispy edges form, the tender florets are tossed in an aromatic blend of cumin and cinnamon, then finished with a sticky garlic-honey glaze. Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, it brings the vibrant taste of the souk to your dinner table.

Ingredients

Scale

— The Cauliflower —

1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground turmeric

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

— The Honey Glaze —

⅓ cup honey

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Harissa paste (optional, for a spicy kick) or a pinch of cayenne

— Garnish —

¼ cup fresh cilantro or mint, chopped

¼ cup toasted sliced almonds or pine nuts

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Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Season Cauliflower: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the cauliflower florets and toss well until they are evenly coated in the spiced oil.

3. Roast: Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the florets are tender and the edges are browned and crispy.

4. Make Glaze: While the cauliflower roasts, whisk together the honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, and Harissa paste (if using) in a small bowl.

5. Caramelize: Remove the cauliflower from the oven. Drizzle the honey glaze evenly over the hot florets and toss gently on the pan to coat. Return to the oven for another 3–5 minutes. *Watch closely so the honey bubbles but does not burn.*

6. Serve: Transfer to a serving platter. Garnish immediately with fresh cilantro (or mint) and toasted almonds for crunch. Serve warm.

Notes

Spice Blend: If you have ‘Ras el Hanout’ (a Moroccan spice blend) in your pantry, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of it for the individual dry spices listed.

Vegan Option: Substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Serving Suggestion: This makes a fantastic side for grilled chicken, lamb, or served over quinoa for a vegetarian main.

Texture: For maximum crispiness, ensure the cauliflower is completely dry after washing before tossing it with the oil.

Prep Time: 15
Cook Time: 35
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: Moroccan

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 190
Sugar: 24
Sodium: 320
Fat: 9
Saturated Fat: 1
Unsaturated Fat: 7
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 28
Fiber: 4
Protein: 4
Cholesterol: 0