Description
Crispy Baked Orange Cauliflower is a vibrant, plant-based dish that combines the refreshing zest of orange with the satisfying crunch of baked cauliflower. This delightful recipe serves as an excellent appetizer, side dish, or main course, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. With its light and crispy coating paired with a tangy orange sauce, it’s both irresistible and healthy. Plus, this gluten-free option is sure to impress everyone at your table!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium head of cauliflower (cut into florets)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Garlic and ginger (for flavor)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup water (or plant-based milk)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for tossing)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (or maple syrup)
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- Optional: Zest of 1 orange (for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil in a large bowl until coated.
- In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in water until smooth.
- Dip each floret in the batter and place on the prepared baking sheet without overcrowding.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
- Meanwhile, heat sesame oil in a saucepan; sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant. Stir in orange juice, soy sauce, and thicken with cornstarch slurry.
- Once the cauliflower is golden brown, toss it in the warm orange sauce and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course/Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Plant-Based
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 175
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg