Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower

Name: Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large cauliflower, cut into florets; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning; 1 lime, juiced; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower. The unique blend of spices creates an explosion of flavor that transforms this humble vegetable into a vibrant dish. While experimenting with this recipe, I found that marinating the cauliflower really enhances its taste, allowing the spices to penetrate beautifully. The smokiness and heat from the jerk seasoning paired with the tender cauliflower is irresistible. Serve it as a main dish or a side, and you'll have everyone asking for seconds!

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:49:14.765Z

When I first tried Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower, I was blown away by how such a simple ingredient could taste so amazing. The key lies in the marinade, which is rich with spices like allspice and Scotch bonnet pepper. I like to let the cauliflower soak up these flavors for at least 30 minutes before roasting, which brings out the best in this dish. Roasting helps caramelize the edges, giving it a delightful texture.

After some trial and error, I discovered that keeping the florets slightly larger than bite-size not only makes serving easier, but it also enhances the crunchiness on the outside while maintaining a tender bite on the inside. Don't skip the fresh herbs as a garnish; they add the perfect finishing touch!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Explosive flavors from authentic jerk seasoning
Perfectly roasted for a delightful crunch
A vegan dish that even meat lovers will crave

      

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting the recipe.

Ingredients

1 large cauliflower, cut into florets
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
1 lime, juiced
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix olive oil, jerk seasoning, lime juice, brown sugar, and salt until well combined.

Marinate the Cauliflower

Add the cauliflower florets to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.

Roast the Cauliflower

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the marinated cauliflower on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and tender.

Serve

Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful and vibrant Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower!

Pro Tips

For extra heat, consider adding more jerk seasoning or a diced Scotch bonnet pepper to the marinade. Adjust the cooking time based on your oven's performance to achieve the desired crispness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, but fresh cauliflower yields better texture and flavor.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower?

It pairs well with rice and peas, grilled meats, or on its own as a hearty vegan option.

→ How long does it last in the fridge?

It can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Increase the amount of jerk seasoning or add chopped peppers.