Sweet and Sour Cauliflower

Sweet and Sour Cauliflower is a vibrant, plant-based dish that delivers bold flavor with a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory elements. The crispy, golden cauliflower florets are coated in a luscious sweet and sour sauce, making it a satisfying and colorful option for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A flavorful and healthy alternative to takeout
• Completely plant-based and vegetarian-friendly
• Crispy texture with a glossy, tangy sauce
• Uses common pantry ingredients
• Quick and easy to prepare
• Can be served as a main or side dish
• Naturally dairy-free
• A crowd-pleaser, even for those who usually skip vegetables
• Easily adaptable to dietary needs
• A delicious way to introduce cauliflower to picky eaters

Ingredients

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

• Cauliflower florets
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Water
• Oil (for baking or frying)
• Garlic (minced)
• Bell peppers (optional, for extra color and flavor)
• Green onions (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• Ketchup
• Vinegar (rice vinegar or white)
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Pineapple juice (optional)
• Cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat oil in a deep pan if frying.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and water to create a batter.
3. Dip cauliflower florets into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
4. Arrange battered cauliflower on a lined baking sheet or fry in hot oil until golden and crispy.
5. If baking, spray lightly with oil and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. While the cauliflower cooks, prepare the sauce by combining ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce, and brown sugar in a saucepan.
7. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken. Add pineapple juice if using.
8. Toss the cooked cauliflower in the sauce until evenly coated.
9. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 40–45 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 Vegetables: Mix in bell peppers, onions, or carrots for added nutrition.
• Baked Only: Skip frying and opt for a healthier, fully baked version.
• Low-Sugar: Reduce sugar and use unsweetened pineapple juice or a sugar substitute.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes or use an air fryer for 5–7 minutes. Reheating in a microwave is not recommended as it can make the cauliflower soggy.

For best results, store sauce and cauliflower separately and toss together just before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe oil-free?

Yes, you can bake the cauliflower without any oil, though it may be slightly less crispy.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, all ingredients are plant-based.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Fresh is preferred for texture, but frozen can be used if thawed and well-drained.

How do I keep the cauliflower crispy?

Serve immediately after tossing with sauce or keep sauce separate until just before serving.

What type of vinegar is best?

Rice vinegar offers a milder flavor, while white vinegar gives a stronger tang.

Can I air-fry the cauliflower?

Yes, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway through.

What can I serve with sweet and sour cauliflower?

It pairs well with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

How thick should the batter be?

The batter should coat the cauliflower without being too runny or overly thick—similar to pancake batter.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made and refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Is it necessary to add pineapple juice?

No, it’s optional, but it enhances the classic sweet and sour flavor.

Conclusion

Sweet and Sour Cauliflower is a delicious and vibrant dish that brings a burst of flavor and satisfying texture to your table. Whether served as a main course or a side, it offers a healthier, plant-based twist on a takeout favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.

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