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; 3 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1 jalapeño, minced (optional); Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro, chopped

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely fell in love with this Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower recipe. Not only is it incredibly flavorful, but it also beautifully captures the essence of traditional jerk seasoning. The combination of spices creates a warm, aromatic profile that tantalizes the taste buds. Roasting the cauliflower helps to develop a crunchy exterior while retaining a tender inside, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether served as a main or a side, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table!

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:55:13.513Z

When I first tried Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower at a local Caribbean eatery, I was blown away by the depth of flavor. I knew I had to recreate that experience at home. By marinating the cauliflower in jerk seasoning for a couple of hours, I found that the flavors really penetrated, making each bite rich and satisfying. Pairing it with a refreshing mango salsa adds a sweet contrast that perfectly balances the spices.

Playing around with cooking methods is how I perfected this recipe. Roasting at a high temperature gives the cauliflower that irresistible char and enhances the natural sweetness. I always recommend checking for tenderness by piercing it with a fork — if it goes through easily, it’s ready to serve!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bold and spicy jerk flavor that awakens your palate
Deliciously crispy texture balanced with tender cauliflower
Great as a standout main dish or a flavorful side

      

Techniques for Perfect Roasting

Achieving the ideal texture when roasting cauliflower is all about temperature and timing. Preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) ensures that the cauliflower begins to caramelize immediately upon entering the oven. Look for golden-brown edges as a sign that your cauliflower is perfectly roasted. For the best results, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; this allows for proper air circulation, ensuring a crispier texture. If you notice any pieces becoming too browned, simply toss them back into the oven for a few more minutes until they reach your desired doneness.

If you want to amp up the flavors even more, consider marinating the cauliflower in the jerk seasoning and olive oil for at least 30 minutes before roasting. This will enhance the flavor penetration, resulting in a more vibrant taste profile. Just make sure to coat each floret evenly; this helps create that delicious glaze while roasting, making your final dish not only tastier but also visually appealing.

Freshness of Ingredients

Using fresh, ripe mango is crucial for the salsa's flavor and sweetness. Look for mangoes that yield slightly to gentle pressure; this indicates ripeness. If you’re in need of a substitute, consider papaya or even pineapple for a tropical twist. Additionally, feel free to adjust the jalapeño according to your spice preference; the seeds and membranes contain the most heat, so remove them for a milder flavor. Fresh cilantro alongside the lime juice adds a bright contrast, cutting through the richness of the roasted cauliflower.

For the best results, freshly chop all your salsa ingredients just before serving. This preserves their crunch and vibrant colors, making the dish not only tasty but visually stunning on the plate. If you're preparing this ahead of time, mix the mango salsa ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate them for up to 1 hour before serving, but add the lime juice right before serving to prevent browning.

Serving Ideas and Variations

This Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside coconut rice or quinoa to soak up the zesty notes from the mango salsa, creating a well-rounded meal. You can also place it on top of a bed of mixed greens for a vibrant salad. To elevate the dish further, try adding sliced avocado or a drizzle of a tangy yogurt sauce for added creaminess.

For a creative twist, feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables to the roasting pan. Sweet bell peppers or zucchini can complement the jerk seasoning nicely, providing additional textures and flavors. If you're looking for a heartier meal, serve the jerk cauliflower in warm pita bread with a spoonful of salsa for an easy, on-the-go wrap.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful cooking experience!

For the Cauliflower

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For Mango Salsa

1 ripe mango, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro, chopped

Make sure everything is well-prepared for cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower!

Prepare the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, mix the cauliflower florets with olive oil, jerk seasoning, salt, and pepper until well coated.

Roast

Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet in an even layer. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown and tender, tossing halfway through.

Make the Salsa

While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the mango salsa. In a bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro. Mix well and set aside.

Serve

Once the cauliflower is roasted, remove it from the oven. Serve hot, topped with mango salsa.

Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, let the cauliflower marinate with jerk seasoning for at least an hour before roasting. You can also serve it with a side of rice and peas for a complete meal.

Storage Tips

Leftover Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, consider using an oven or air fryer to bring back that crispy texture; aim for about 10 minutes in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the cauliflower soggy.

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, I recommend roasting the cauliflower and preparing the mango salsa separately. While the roasted cauliflower can maintain its quality, make sure to store the mango salsa in its own container to keep it fresh. Just mix the two together right before serving to preserve the crunch of ingredients.

Dietary Adjustments

For a vegan twist, this recipe is already plant-based! If you're following a gluten-free diet, confirm that your jerk seasoning is gluten-free, as some store-bought blends may contain additives. You can also easily customize the spice level of your jerk seasoning by either using a milder blend or adjusting the amount you add to the cauliflower.

Should you need a nut-free option, make sure to use olive oil as your fat in the recipe, as it is suitable for most diets. If you prefer a smoky flavor without compromising on health, a hint of smoked paprika can be added to the jerk seasoning mix, enhancing both flavor and aroma without allergens.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Yes, but keep in mind that frozen cauliflower may have more moisture. Pat it dry before seasoning.

→ What if I can't find Jamaican jerk seasoning?

You can make your own by combining spices such as allspice, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! All ingredients are plant-based, making it a delicious vegan option.

→ 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.