Description
This Crispy Orange Cauliflower Recipe offers a deliciously sticky, sweet, and tangy orange glaze coating perfectly crispy cauliflower florets. Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, this dish is a vegetarian delight that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Serve it over rice, noodles, or as an appetizer for a flavorful meal everyone will love!
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower:
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1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
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1/2 cup cornstarch
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3/4 cup water (for batter)
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Salt & pepper to taste
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1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
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Oil for frying or baking (olive oil or avocado oil)
For the Orange Glaze:
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1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1–2 large oranges)
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1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (for vegan option)
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2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)
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1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/4 tsp ginger powder (or 1/2 tsp fresh grated ginger)
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1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
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1 tbsp orange zest
For Serving:
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Cooked rice or noodles
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Chopped green onions & sesame seeds (optional garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare the Cauliflower:
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Mix flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and water to form a smooth batter.
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Coat cauliflower florets in batter.
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Cook the Cauliflower (Choose One):
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Bake/Air-Fry: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes or air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
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Fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
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Make the Orange Glaze:
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Combine orange juice, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger, vinegar, and orange zest.
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Simmer, then add cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened (2-3 minutes).
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Combine & Serve:
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Toss cooked cauliflower with warm glaze.
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Serve over rice or noodles with green onions and sesame seeds.
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Notes
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For extra crispiness, double-coat and fry or bake cauliflower a second time.
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Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Baking, Air-Frying, Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired