Orange Cauliflower

Orange Cauliflower is a delightful plant-based alternative to the classic Chinese-American Orange Chicken. This dish features crispy baked cauliflower florets coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy orange sauce. It’s a perfect fusion of comfort and nutrition, offering a satisfying meal without the heaviness of fried meat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, reducing oil and calories.
• Vegan-Friendly: Completely plant-based, catering to various dietary preferences.
• Flavorful: The homemade orange sauce delivers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
• Versatile: Suitable as a main dish or appetizer, and pairs well with rice or noodles.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for all cooking levels.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cauliflower florets
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Water
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Orange juice
• Soy sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Maple syrup or brown sugar
• Fresh ginger, minced
• Garlic, minced
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Batter: In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and water to create a smooth batter.
3. Coat Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, then roll in panko breadcrumbs until well-coated.
4. Bake: Arrange the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
5. Make Sauce: While cauliflower bakes, combine orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then add cornstarch slurry. Cook until the sauce thickens.
6. Combine: Toss the baked cauliflower in the sauce until evenly coated.
7. Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
• Air Fryer Method: Cook coated cauliflower in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes for an even crispier texture.
• Protein Boost: Add tofu or chickpeas to the dish for added protein.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Microwaving is not recommended as it may make the cauliflower soggy.

FAQs

What is Orange Cauliflower?

Orange Cauliflower is a vegan dish where cauliflower florets are baked until crispy and then coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, mimicking the flavors of traditional Orange Chicken.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw and pat dry the cauliflower to remove excess moisture before battering and baking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before tossing with the cauliflower.

How can I make it spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the orange sauce for extra heat.

What can I serve with Orange Cauliflower?

It pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. Adding a side of steamed vegetables can also complement the dish.

Can I fry the cauliflower instead of baking?

Yes, for a traditional texture, you can deep-fry the battered cauliflower until golden brown.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.

Can I use store-bought orange sauce?

While homemade sauce is recommended for the best flavor, store-bought orange sauce can be used as a time-saving alternative.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble before serving. Keep the sauce and baked cauliflower separate until ready to eat to maintain texture.

Conclusion

Orange Cauliflower is a flavorful and healthier alternative to traditional takeout dishes. Its crispy texture and vibrant sauce make it a satisfying meal for both vegans and non-vegans alike. Easy to prepare and versatile, it’s a great addition to your culinary repertoire.

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