Sweet & Spicy Cauliflower

This Sweet & Spicy Cauliflower recipe brings together crispy cauliflower florets tossed in a perfect balance of sweet and fiery sauce. It’s a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish that works wonderfully as an appetizer, side dish, or even a plant-based main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Incredibly Flavorful: The perfect harmony of sweet and spicy in every bite.
• Versatile: Serve it as a snack, over rice, or in tacos.
• Plant-Based Goodness: A great option for vegetarians and vegans.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cauliflower florets
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Baking powder
• Water
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Oil for frying or baking

For the Sauce:

• Honey or maple syrup (for vegan option)
• Sriracha or hot sauce
• Soy sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, grated
• Cornstarch slurry (to thicken)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets and set aside.
2. Make the Batter: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Slowly add water until you get a smooth, thick batter.
3. Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Cook the Cauliflower:
   • For Frying: Heat oil in a pan and fry the florets until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
   • For Baking: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Place the coated florets on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine honey (or maple syrup), sriracha, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Simmer for a few minutes, then add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
6. Toss & Serve: Place the cooked cauliflower in a large bowl, pour the sauce over, and toss until evenly coated. Serve immediately with sesame seeds and green onions for garnish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Extra Crispy: Double-fry the cauliflower for an even crunchier texture.
• Less Spicy: Reduce the sriracha or substitute with a milder hot sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Air Fryer Option: Cook the coated cauliflower at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend and use tamari instead of soy sauce.

2. Can I bake instead of fry?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option, and the cauliflower still turns out crispy.

3. What can I serve with Sweet & Spicy Cauliflower?

It pairs well with rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps.

4. How spicy is this dish?

It has a medium spice level. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less sriracha.

5. Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Fresh cauliflower works best for texture, but you can use frozen — just thaw and pat dry first.

6. What can I use instead of honey?

Maple syrup or agave syrup are great vegan alternatives.

7. How do I prevent the batter from falling off?

Make sure the cauliflower is dry before coating, and press the batter on lightly.

8. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

9. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Of course! Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas would be great additions.

10. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the components separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Conclusion

Sweet & Spicy Cauliflower is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s sure to be a hit. Whether you fry, bake, or air fry, the combination of crispy cauliflower and bold sauce is irresistible. Perfect for game nights, dinner parties, or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe brings plant-based eating to a whole new level. Try it out and enjoy every delicious bite!

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