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Crispy Orange Cauliflower

Crispy Orange Cauliflower Recipe – Sweet & Tangy Perfection


  • Author: Clara Whisk
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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

Scale

For the Cauliflower:

  • 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)

  • 1/2 cup cornstarch

  • 3/4 cup water (for batter)

  • Salt & pepper to taste

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)

  • Oil for frying or baking (olive oil or avocado oil)

For the Orange Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 12 large oranges)

  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (for vegan option)

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

  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/4 tsp ginger powder (or 1/2 tsp fresh grated ginger)

  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tbsp orange zest

For Serving:

  • Cooked rice or noodles

  • Chopped green onions & sesame seeds (optional garnish)


Instructions

  • Prepare the Cauliflower:

    • Mix flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and water to form a smooth batter.

    • Coat cauliflower florets in batter.

  • Cook the Cauliflower (Choose One):

    • 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.

    • Fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.

  • Make the Orange Glaze:

    • Combine orange juice, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger, vinegar, and orange zest.

    • Simmer, then add cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened (2-3 minutes).

  • Combine & Serve:

    • Toss cooked cauliflower with warm glaze.

    • Serve over rice or noodles with green onions and sesame seeds.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, double-coat and fry or bake cauliflower a second time.

  • Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.

  • 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