Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower

Name: Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 ripe avocado; 2 tablespoons lime juice; Salt to taste; Water to thin (optional)

Highlighted under: Smart Kitchen

I absolutely love this Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower recipe! It’s a vibrant, flavorful twist on a classic dish that brings a hint of spice to my plate. The combination of aromatic spices and the char from roasting creates a delicious, smoky flavor that's simply irresistible. With fresh herbs and the right balance of heat and sweetness, this dish quickly became a go-to for me, whether I’m hosting a dinner party or just looking for a tasty weeknight meal. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be coming back for more!

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:29:34.614Z

When I first stumbled upon the concept of jerk seasoning, I knew I had to experiment with it. I tried a variety of vegetables before landing on the cauliflower, and its texture holds up wonderfully to the spices. For the perfect roast, I slice the cauliflower into thick steaks, giving them a delightful char while keeping them juicy inside.

This method not only enhances the flavor but also brings out the unique essence of each spice. I always pair it with a cool avocado lime sauce to balance the heat, which has earned rave reviews from family and friends. It’s a simple yet impressive dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bold and spicy jerk seasoning that tantalizes the taste buds.
The cauliflower gets wonderfully crispy and charred for a satisfying texture.
An easy vegetarian option that even meat lovers will enjoy!

      

Mastering the Jerk Seasoning

The jerk seasoning is the star of this dish, bringing complex flavors that range from sweet to smoky, and a hint of heat. Traditional jerk seasoning includes allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers, but feel free to adjust the heat level by using less spicy peppers or even a milder blend. I often use a store-bought blend for convenience, but making your own allows you to customize it to your palate. Just be careful not to skimp on the spices; they are essential for that signature jerk flavor.

If you want to enhance the seasoning even further, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a tablespoon of brown sugar to the mix. This not only complements the existing spices but also promotes caramelization during roasting, resulting in crispy, golden edges. Just remember that too much liquid can cause the cauliflower to steam instead of roast, so keep an eye on moisture levels while mixing.

Perfecting Cauliflower Texture

Slicing the cauliflower into thick steaks is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender interior. Aim for ¾-inch thickness so that they hold up during cooking and get that much-desired char. If you prefer smaller pieces, consider breaking them into florets; just keep an eye on the roasting time, as they will cook faster than steaks. Visually, you should look for a nice golden color on the edges, indicating they are perfectly roasted.

To prevent your cauliflower from getting soggy while baking, make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet. This allows for proper air circulation and helps achieve that crispiness. If you're cooking multiple heads of cauliflower, utilize two sheets and rotate them halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting. I find that a little patience here really pays off in texture!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

For a satisfying meal, serve Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower alongside rice and peas, a classic Caribbean side that nicely complements the spices. Adding a simple side salad with fresh greens or a slaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. If you're looking to up the ante, feel free to add some grilled shrimp or chicken for a heartier option; the jerk flavor pairs beautifully with both.

This dish also makes for a great snack or appetizer. Cut the roasted cauliflower into smaller bites and serve with the avocado lime sauce for dipping. The creamy sauce not only balances the heat of the jerk seasoning but also adds a delicious creaminess that enhances the overall experience. Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for added brightness and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Jerk Cauliflower

1 large head of cauliflower
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Avocado Lime Sauce

1 ripe avocado
2 tablespoons lime juice
Salt to taste
Water to thin (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Remove the leaves and stem from the cauliflower, then slice it into thick steaks.

Season and Bake

In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower steaks with olive oil, jerk seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure even coating. Arrange the steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.

Make the Avocado Lime Sauce

While the cauliflower is baking, blend the avocado, lime juice, and salt in a food processor until smooth. If needed, add a splash of water to achieve your desired consistency.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the cauliflower is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve topped with the avocado lime sauce and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add finely chopped Scotch bonnet pepper to the jerk seasoning blend. Serve alongside coconut rice for a complete Caribbean experience!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover jerk cauliflower, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes will help restore its crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it tends to make the cauliflower mushy and loses that delightful texture you worked hard to achieve.

For longer storage, you can freeze the roasted cauliflower. Lay the pieces out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. This way, they won't stick together. When you're ready to eat, preheat your oven first, then bake from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for around 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until hot and crisp.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative to make this dish even more suitable for different dietary preferences, you can easily swap the avocado lime sauce with a tahini-based dressing. Simply blend tahini, lime juice, garlic, and a bit of water to achieve a creamy consistency. The nutty flavor of tahini will provide a different yet enjoyable contrast to the spicy cauliflower.

For those unable to find jerk seasoning, a homemade mix can be created using spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Just adjust the proportions to taste and be mindful of the spice levels based on your preference. This ensures that even if you can't find the original seasoning blend, you won't miss out on the delicious flavors of this dish.

Creative Variations

Feel free to get creative with the vegetables! Try replacing cauliflower with cauliflower rice for a lighter option, or experiment with brussels sprouts or eggplant as alternatives. Each veggie will bring its own unique flavor and texture but will still enjoy the robust jerk seasoning. Remember to adjust the cooking times according to the vegetable’s density to ensure everything is perfectly roasted.

To enhance the complexity of flavors, consider marinating the cauliflower steaks in the jerk seasoning and olive oil for an hour before roasting. This not only intensifies the flavors but also allows the seasonings to penetrate deeper, resulting in an even more flavorful dish. Just make sure to keep an eye on the time to prevent the cauliflower from becoming mushy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan as it uses cauliflower and plant-based ingredients.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or as a vibrant addition to salads.

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Fresh cauliflower is recommended for texture, but frozen may be used in a pinch; just ensure it’s fully thawed and drained.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.