Sweet and Spicy Instant Pot Cauliflower

This Sweet and Spicy Instant Pot Cauliflower is tender, flavorful, and perfectly caramelized. The combination of honey, hot sauce, and soy sauce creates a bold glaze that makes this dish a standout side or vegetarian main.

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Ingredients

• 1 cauliflower head

For the Marinade:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce or tamari sauce
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 ½ tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ lemon, juiced (optional)
• Chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, soy sauce, ketchup, hot sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Coat the Cauliflower:
   Wash the cauliflower and gently brush the marinade over the entire head until well coated.
3. Pressure Cook the Cauliflower:
   Pour ½ cup water into the bottom of the Instant Pot. Place the cauliflower on a trivet inside. Secure the lid and set the vent to SEALING. Select PRESSURE COOK/MANUAL on high:
   • Small cauliflower: 1 minute
   • Medium cauliflower: 4 minutes
   • Large cauliflower: 8 minutes
4. Release Pressure:
   When cooking is complete, perform a quick release. Carefully remove the cauliflower from the Instant Pot.
5. Broil for Glaze:
   Brush the cauliflower with remaining marinade. Place under the broiler for 7–10 minutes until caramelized and slightly crispy.
6. Serve:
   Garnish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold flavors: Sweet, spicy, and savory all in one bite.
• Tender yet crisp: Pressure cooking ensures soft cauliflower while broiling gives a caramelized finish.
• Quick and easy: Minimal prep and fast cooking with the Instant Pot.
• Vegetarian and healthy: A flavorful way to enjoy vegetables.

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Tips

• Adjust heat: Reduce or increase the hot sauce to suit your spice preference.
• Even coating: Use a basting brush to get the marinade into the florets.
• Avoid overcooking: Follow timing based on cauliflower size to prevent mushiness.
• Broil carefully: Watch closely while broiling to avoid burning the glaze.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Different sweeteners: Use maple syrup or agave instead of honey.
• Alternate sauces: Try sriracha or chili garlic sauce for a different spice profile.
• Add aromatics: Sprinkle with smoked paprika or garlic powder before cooking.
• Nuts or seeds: Top with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for extra texture.

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FAQs

Can I make this in the oven instead of Instant Pot?
Yes, roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, brushing with marinade halfway through.

Can I use pre-cut cauliflower?
Yes, but reduce cooking time to 2–3 minutes on high pressure for florets.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if using tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce.

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Serving and Suggestions

Serve as a side dish with rice, noodles, or grilled meats. Works perfectly as a main for a vegetarian meal when paired with quinoa or couscous. Garnish with extra parsley and a drizzle of lemon juice for freshness.