Vegan Sweet and Sour Cauliflower

Vegan Sweet and Sour Cauliflower is a delicious plant-based twist on the classic takeout favorite. Crispy, battered cauliflower florets are tossed in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce, creating a satisfying dish that’s perfect for dinner or meal prep. Serve it over rice or noodles for a flavorful and wholesome meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and flavorful – Perfectly coated cauliflower with a tangy, sticky sauce.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
• Healthier than takeout – Baked or air-fried instead of deep-fried.
• Completely vegan – No animal products, just plant-based goodness.
• Great for meal prep – Stays fresh and reheats well.

Ingredients

this Recipe

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

For the Cauliflower:

• Cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)
• All-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
• Cornstarch
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Plant-based milk or water (for the batter)
• Panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch, optional)

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• Pineapple juice
• Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• Ketchup
• Maple syrup or agave
• Cornstarch (for thickening)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Directions

Prepare the Cauliflower:

1. Preheat Oven or Air Fryer – Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the Batter – In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and plant-based milk or water until smooth.
3. Coat the Cauliflower – Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, then roll in panko breadcrumbs (if using) for extra crunch.
4. Bake or Air Fry –
   • Oven: Spread cauliflower on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
   • Air Fryer: Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

5. Prepare Sauce – In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, vinegar, soy sauce, ketchup, and maple syrup. Bring to a simmer.
6. Thicken the Sauce – Mix cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the sauce. Cook until thickened.
7. Coat the Cauliflower – Toss the crispy cauliflower in the warm sweet and sour sauce until fully coated.

Serve & Enjoy:

8. Garnish & Serve – Serve over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version – Add Sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce.
• Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Extra Crunchy – Double-coat with breadcrumbs before baking.
• Low-Sugar – Reduce maple syrup or use unsweetened pineapple juice.
• Add Veggies – Stir-fry bell peppers, carrots, or onions with the sauce for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cauliflower may lose its crispness.
• Reheating: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or air-fry for 5 minutes to regain crispiness.

FAQs

Can I deep-fry the cauliflower?

Yes! Deep-fry in hot oil at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-4 minutes until golden.

How do I make the cauliflower extra crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs and bake at a high temperature or air-fry for extra crunch.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, but thaw and pat dry before coating to avoid excess moisture.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with jasmine rice, quinoa, stir-fried vegetables, or steamed bok choy.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! You can reduce the vinegar and spice for a milder flavor.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store in the fridge for up to a week and reheat before using.

Can I use another vegetable?

Yes! Try broccoli, zucchini, or tofu for variety.

How do I prevent the cauliflower from getting soggy?

Serve immediately after tossing in the sauce or keep the sauce separate until ready to eat.

What’s a good soy-free alternative?

Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

How can I make the batter stick better?

Make sure the cauliflower is dry before dipping it into the batter.

Conclusion

Vegan Sweet and Sour Cauliflower is a delicious, crispy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a meatless meal. With a sticky, tangy sauce and crunchy texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser that even non-vegans will love. Try it today and enjoy a healthier, plant-based version of a takeout favorite!

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