Cauliflower “Popcorn” with Cumin

Golden, caramelized, and tossed in warm spices, these bite-sized cauliflower florets make eating fresh vegetables as fun and addictive as eating popcorn.

Ingredients:

1 large head cauliflower (about 8 cups)

½ cup olive oil

1 Tbsp ground cumin

1 tsp salt, plus more to taste

¾ tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp black pepper, plus more to taste

¼ tsp red pepper flakes, optional, plus more to taste

Equipment:

Baking sheets

Cutting board

Chef’s knife

Bowl

Measuring cups and spoons

Mixing spoon

Metal spatula

Pot holders, dish cloths

Ingredients:

1 large head cauliflower (about 8 cups)

½ cup olive oil

1 Tbsp ground cumin

1 tsp salt, plus more to taste

¾ tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp black pepper, plus more to taste

¼ tsp red pepper flakes, optional, plus more to taste

Equipment:

Baking sheets

Cutting board

Chef’s knife

Bowl

Measuring cups and spoons

Mixing spoon

Metal spatula

Pot holders, dish cloths

Directions:

  1. Gather all the ingredients and equipment. Preheat the oven to 425° and position the oven racks in the bottom and middle of the oven.
  2. Wash the cauliflower and then remove the tough stems and leaves. Cut it into slices about ¾ inch thick, then cut those slices into bite-sized florets. Cut the stems into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, cumin, salt, and smoked paprika. Add cauliflower pieces to the bowl with the oil and toss until each piece is lightly coated.
  4. Spread the cauliflower pieces evenly across two baking sheets in a single layer, leaving a small space between each piece.
  5. Roast the cauliflower uncovered until the bottoms are browned, about 20 minutes. Then flip the cauliflower and rotate the baking sheets. Continue roasting until the florets are well-browned about, 10 to 15 minutes.
  6. Taste, adjust, and enjoy!

Produce 101: Cauliflower