Ingredients:
For the Cauliflower:
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1/2 cup flour (all-purpose or gluten-free)
1/2 cup plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk)
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/4 tsp garlic powder
For the Orange Sauce:
1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 large oranges)
Zest of 1 orange
2-3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
2 tbsp maple syrup or agave (for sweetness)
1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1-2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder (for thickening)
1 tbsp water (to mix with cornstarch)
For Garnish:
Sliced green onions
Sesame seeds
Instructions:
Prepare and Preheat:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Coat the Cauliflower:
In a bowl, combine the flour, plant-based milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) to create a batter. In another shallow bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat in the breadcrumbs. Place the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the Cauliflower:
Bake the cauliflower for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Alternatively, air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
Make the Orange Sauce:
While the cauliflower bakes, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add it to the sauce and stir until it thickens (about 1-2 minutes). Remove from heat.
Combine and Glaze:
Once the cauliflower is baked and crispy, add it to a large mixing bowl. Pour the orange sauce over the cauliflower and gently toss until each piece is well coated.
Serve:
Transfer the glazed cauliflower to a serving plate, then garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.
Tips:
Adjust Sweetness: Add more maple syrup or agave if you prefer a sweeter glaze.
Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice, quinoa, or steamed veggies for a full meal.
Make it Spicy: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat.
Enjoy this vibrant, flavor-packed vegan orange cauliflower! It’s a fantastic take on a classic dish, perfect for any meal.