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Vegan Black Pepper Cauliflower

Vegan Black Pepper Cauliflower

Here’s a flavor-packed Vegan Black Pepper Cauliflower recipe — bold, spicy, and perfectly crispy! 🌶️🥦 It’s a plant-based twist on a takeout favorite that’s both satisfying and healthy.

🌱 Vegan Black Pepper Cauliflower

Ingredients:

For the Cauliflower:

  • 1 medium cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)

  • ¼ cup cornstarch

  • ½ cup plant-based milk (unsweetened)

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • Oil, for baking or shallow frying

For the Black Pepper Sauce:

  • 1 tbsp sesame oil (or any neutral oil)

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1-inch ginger, grated

  • 1 small bell pepper, diced

  • 2 tsp coarse black pepper (adjust to taste)

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar

  • ¼ cup water

  • 2 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry)

  • 1 tbsp chopped green onions, for garnish

🥣 Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cauliflower
    In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and plant milk until smooth.
    Toss cauliflower florets in the batter until well-coated.

  2. Cook the Cauliflower

    • To Bake: Place on a parchment-lined tray and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.

    • To Fry: Shallow fry in hot oil for 3–4 minutes per side until crispy and lightly browned. Drain on paper towels.

  3. Make the Sauce
    In a pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger.
    Sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
    Add bell pepper and cook another 2 minutes.

  4. Add Flavor
    Stir in soy sauce, vinegar, maple syrup, black pepper, and water.
    Simmer for 1–2 minutes, then add cornstarch slurry.
    Cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

  5. Combine & Serve
    Add crispy cauliflower to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
    Garnish with green onions and a sprinkle of extra pepper.

🍚 Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice or quinoa.

  • Add to lettuce wraps for a light, crunchy meal.

  • Pair with stir-fried veggies for a balanced dinner.