Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Steaks with Umami Chili Sauce

Ingredients

For the cauliflower:

  • 1 large head cauliflower
  • 1–2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper

For the chili sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons Redbloom Umami Chili Oil 
  • 2 tablespoons coconut aminos (or soy sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (or lime juice)
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for balance)
  • 1 small garlic clove, grated
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

For serving (optional):

  • Sliced green onions
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower.
    • Heat oven to 425°F.
    • Remove the outer leaves and trim the stem, keeping the core intact.
    • Slice the cauliflower from top to bottom into ¾- to 1-inch “steaks.” You’ll usually get 2–3 intact steaks plus some florets.
  2. Roast.
    • Place steaks on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
    • Brush both sides with avocado oil and season with salt and pepper.
    • Roast for 20 minutes, carefully flip, and roast another 15–20 minutes until deeply golden with crisp edges.
  3. Make the sauce.
    • While the cauliflower roasts, whisk together the chili oil, coconut aminos, rice vinegar, maple syrup (if using), garlic, and ginger.
  4. Finish.
    • When the cauliflower is done, spoon or brush the chili sauce over the hot steaks.
    • Return to the oven for 2–3 minutes to let the sauce caramelize slightly.
  5. Serve.
    • Top with green onions, sesame seeds, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Notes

  • For extra protein, serve over rice with crispy tofu or grilled chicken.
  • Any cauliflower pieces that break off can be roasted alongside the steaks and tossed with the remaining sauce.

The sauce is also fantastic doubled and used as a dressing for a simple cucumber and herb salad alongside the cauliflower.