Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower

Name: Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Exotic Inspirations Co.

I absolutely love making Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower when I want something flavorful and satisfying! The combination of spices brings a lively kick that elevates the simple cauliflower to an explosion of taste. The sweet and spicy marinade gives this dish a unique character, making it perfect for any meal. Whether I’m enjoying it on its own or pairing it with rice and beans, every bite bursts with savory goodness. If you’re looking for an exciting twist on a classic vegetable, this recipe is a must-try!

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:01:12.576Z

When I first tried Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower at a local Caribbean restaurant, I was captivated by the vibrant flavors and the crispy texture. I knew I had to recreate it at home! After multiple experiments with the jerk seasoning, I found the perfect balance of spice and sweetness that made every bite memorable. One key tip is to let the cauliflower marinate for at least 30 minutes; this step really allows the flavors to sink in and enhances the overall taste.

Making this dish is not only simple but also a fun way to impress friends and family. I first roast the cauliflower until golden brown, which gives it a slight char that complements the jerk spices beautifully. Serve it with a cooling yogurt or avocado sauce, and you’ll have a dish that delights the senses with its complex flavors and textures!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A vibrant mix of spices that ignites the taste buds
Perfectly roasted for that crispy, caramelized finish
Plant-based dish that stands out at any dinner table

The Power of Marinade

The marinade is where the magic happens in this Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower recipe. The combination of Jamaican jerk seasoning, brown sugar, and garlic powder harmonizes to create layers of flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role—the jerk seasoning provides the characteristic heat and depth, while the brown sugar balances it out with a touch of sweetness. Allowing the cauliflower to soak in this marinade for at least 30 minutes is essential; it enhances the flavor penetration and ensures that every bite is bursting with excitement.

If you want to switch things up, feel free to experiment with different spices or additional ingredients in the marinade, such as lime juice for a zesty kick or ginger for added warmth. Just remember that the fundamental flavors of jerk seasoning should remain the focus, so use your modifications sparingly to maintain the essence of the dish.

Roasting Tips for Perfection

Roasting your marinated cauliflower at the right temperature is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy, caramelized finish. Preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) allows the cauliflower to roast evenly while preventing it from becoming soggy. Spread the florets out on a baking sheet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, as this helps them roast rather than steam. Turn the florets halfway through cooking; you’re looking for golden edges and a slight char for those deep flavors.

If your cauliflower isn't browning as anticipated, check your oven’s calibration or consider increasing the temperature slightly. Oven hot spots can affect even cooking, so rotating the baking sheet can also help. I often suggest keeping an eye on them in the last five minutes of roasting to catch that perfect golden stage before they become overdone.

Serving and Storing

This Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower shines on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your meal even further. It's delicious served with classic rice and beans, which help to balance the dish's bold flavors. Consider adding a cooling sauce like yogurt or avocado dressing to contrast the heat of the jerk spices. You can also toss in some fresh herbs or squeeze a bit of lime over the dish just before serving for that extra burst of freshness.

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they can be enjoyed for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain crispiness, rather than using the microwave, which can make them soggy. Additionally, feel free to freeze the roasted cauliflower if you’re looking to prepare in advance; just remember to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Ingredients

For the Jerk Cauliflower

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, Jamaican jerk seasoning, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix well to create a marinade.

Marinate the Cauliflower

Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the marinade. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Roast the Cauliflower

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the marinated cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25 minutes or until golden brown, turning halfway through.

Serve and Enjoy

Once roasted, remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm as a side dish or main course, perhaps with rice and a refreshing sauce.

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, try adding a splash of lime juice before serving to brighten the flavors even more.

Ingredient Substitutions

While cauliflower is the star of this recipe, you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences. For instance, broccoli florets or even Brussels sprouts can be used as alternatives that will also hold up well when roasted. If you don’t have Jamaican jerk seasoning on hand, creating a quick homemade blend with spices like allspice, cayenne, thyme, and cinnamon can replicate that signature flavor, offering a wonderful substitute for authentic jerk flavor.

For a gluten-free variant, be sure to check that the jerk seasoning doesn’t contain any gluten-based fillers. If you want a milder flavor, reducing the amount of jerk seasoning or mixing in some ground coriander or cumin can give you a less intense, yet still flavorful, profile.

Make-Ahead Preparation

This dish is perfect for meal prepping! You can prepare the marinade and toss the cauliflower florets in it a day in advance. Allowing the cauliflower to sit overnight in the fridge will deepen the flavors significantly, so this is definitely a time-saving strategy I love using. Just cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to roast the next day.

Pre-roasted cauliflower can also be prepared ahead of time. Just roast it as per the recipe, let it cool completely, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, quickly reheat in the oven until warmed through. This allows for quick meals throughout the week while still enjoying the vibrant flavors that define Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower?

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

→ Is jerk seasoning spicy?

It can be! The spice level varies by brand, so adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

→ Can this recipe be made vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan since it uses only plant-based ingredients.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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