Discover how to make this tasty Crispy Baked Orange Cauliflower Recipe that’s healthy and easy—perfect for quick weeknight dinners!
Author:Harper
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:Serves about 4
Category:Main
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Asian
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 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)
1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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)
1 tbsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
Optional: Zest of 1 orange (for extra flavor)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil until they are nicely coated.
In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add water (or plant-based milk), mixing until smooth.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring each piece is evenly covered. Place them on your prepared baking sheet without crowding them.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
While the cauliflower bakes, heat sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and grated ginger for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add fresh orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and optional zest. Bring to a simmer before stirring in your cornstarch slurry and cooking until thickened.
Once both components are ready, toss the crispy cauliflower with the zesty sauce and serve immediately.