Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower

Name: Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; Juice of 1 lime; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I fell in love with the vibrant and bold flavors of Jamaican cuisine, and this Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower is a true standout. It's the perfect combination of spice, sweetness, and smokiness, making it an exciting addition to any meal. Roasting the cauliflower not only enhances its natural flavor, but also gives it a delightful texture that pairs beautifully with the jerk seasoning. Whether I'm serving it as a main dish or a side, this recipe always impresses with its delicious taste and easy preparation.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:34:10.710Z

When I first tried Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower at a local eatery, I was amazed by how such a simple vegetable could transform into something so flavorful. I decided to recreate this dish at home, experimenting with different spices and roasting times. After several tries, I discovered that marinating the cauliflower for at least 30 minutes really allows those bold jerk flavors to penetrate deep into the florets, creating an unforgettable taste sensation.

One tip I found particularly helpful is to use a mixture of brown sugar and spices in the marinade. This adds a sweet caramelization when roasted that complements the heat beautifully. The crispy, charred edges combined with the tender middle are what make this dish truly special. Serve it with a cooling yogurt sauce, and you’ve got yourself a fantastic meal!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of spice with a hint of sweetness
Cauliflower gets beautifully roasted for a satisfying texture
Great as a main dish or a versatile side

      

Understanding the Jerk Seasoning

Jamaican jerk seasoning is key to achieving the dish's authentic flavor profile. It typically includes ingredients like allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers, which bring a unique heat and aroma. The heat level can vary, so if you're sensitive to spice, consider reducing the amount of jerk seasoning or using a milder version. This will allow you to enjoy the dish without overwhelming your palate.

In this recipe, the brown sugar balances out the spice and adds a delightful caramelization when roasted. It’s important to choose a good quality jerk seasoning, as the flavor can significantly impact the overall outcome of the dish. If you can’t find a ready-made seasoning, making your own is easy and often more flavorful. Just blend the key spices with some olive oil and a bit of vinegar for tang.

Roasting Technique for Perfect Cauliflower

When roasting cauliflower, the texture is crucial for achieving that sought-after crunch. Ensure the florets are cut evenly so that they roast uniformly. An 1½-inch size is ideal—this size helps them cook to a tender yet slightly crisp state. When spreading the cauliflower on the baking tray, be sure not to overcrowd the florets; they should have space to letting the heat circulate effectively, preventing steaming.

Another tip for optimizing roasting is to preheat your oven properly and use a parchment-lined tray. This prevents sticking and helps achieve those lovely golden edges on the florets. If you notice that the cauliflower isn't browning well after 25 minutes, you can broil it on high for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this flavorful Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower:

Ingredients

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
Juice of 1 lime
Chopped green onions for garnish

Ensure you have all the ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower:

Marinate the Cauliflower

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, jerk seasoning, brown sugar, salt, and lime juice. Add the cauliflower florets and toss until they are evenly coated. Allow marinating for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking.

Roast the Cauliflower

Spread the marinated cauliflower on a baking tray lined with parchment paper in a single layer. Roast for 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the florets are tender and slightly charred.

Serve

Remove the cauliflower from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower!

Enjoy your homemade Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower, bursting with flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade. If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of jerk seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower can be served in various ways. It makes an excellent main dish paired with a side of rice and peas or a refreshing mango salsa for added sweetness. Alternatively, you can serve it as a side to grilled chicken or fish, creating a flavorful and vibrant plate. For a more casual option, chop the roasted cauliflower into smaller pieces and toss it into a salad for a spicy twist.

As a versatile dish, it can also be enjoyed as part of a vegan taco filling. Simply mound the roasted cauliflower into corn tortillas, top with avocado, and drizzle some lime juice or a dairy-free yogurt for creaminess. This adds a refreshing contrast to the bold jerk flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, it stores well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Simply roast the cauliflower and allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheating can be done in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that crispy texture. Microwaving is quicker but may result in sogginess, so it’s best to avoid that method.

For those looking to save time, you can marinate the cauliflower a day in advance. Just make sure to keep it in the refrigerator, and then roast it fresh shortly before serving. Another great option is to freeze the marinated, uncooked cauliflower; this allows for convenient meal prep. When you're ready, roast it directly from frozen, simply extending the cooking time by a few minutes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen cauliflower well before marinating.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower?

It pairs excellently with rice and peas, salads, or can be served as a filling in tacos.

→ How long does the marinated cauliflower last in the fridge?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, although it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower recipe is completely vegan-friendly!