Here’s a list of ingredients for **Kung Pao Cauliflower**, optimized with SEO-friendly formatting and relevant keywords:
- **Cauliflower** (1 medium head, cut into florets)
- **Cornstarch** (1/4 cup, for crispy coating)
- **All-purpose flour** (1/4 cup, for batter)
- **Soy sauce** (3 tbsp, low-sodium preferred)
- **Rice vinegar** (2 tbsp, for tangy flavor)
- **Hoisin sauce** (1 tbsp, for sweetness)
- **Sesame oil** (1 tbsp, for nutty aroma)
- **Garlic** (3 cloves, minced)
- **Ginger** (1 tbsp, freshly grated)
- **Dried red chilies** (4-6, for heat)
- **Green onions** (3-4, chopped, for garnish)
- **Roasted peanuts** (1/4 cup, for crunch)
- **Brown sugar** (1 tbsp, for balance)
- **Vegetable oil** (for frying or baking)
- **Water** (1/4 cup, for sauce consistency)
- **Salt** (to taste)
- **Black pepper** (to taste)
**Optional ingredients for added flavor:**
- **Szechuan peppercorns** (1 tsp, for authentic spice)
- **Bell peppers** (1/2 cup, diced, for extra veggies)
- **Sesame seeds** (1 tsp, for garnish)
This **vegan Kung Pao Cauliflower recipe** is perfect for a **healthy, plant-based dinner** or as a **spicy appetizer**. It’s gluten-free adaptable and packed with bold, Asian-inspired flavors!
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Steps
# How to Make Kung Pao Cauliflower: A Flavorful Vegan Delight
Kung Pao Cauliflower is a delicious, plant-based twist on the classic Chinese dish, Kung Pao Chicken. Packed with bold flavors, crispy cauliflower, and a spicy-sweet sauce, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Follow these detailed steps to create a mouthwatering Kung Pao Cauliflower that’s sure to impress.
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## **Ingredients for Kung Pao Cauliflower**
- **For the Cauliflower:**
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2-3 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying or baking)
- **For the Kung Pao Sauce:**
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
- **For the Stir-Fry:**
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts or cashews
- 3-4 dried red chilies (optional for extra heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Cauliflower**
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat oil in a skillet for frying.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, water, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to create a batter.
3. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess.
4. For baking: Place the coated florets on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle with oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
For frying: Heat oil in a pan and fry the florets in batches until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
### **2. Make the Kung Pao Sauce**
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sriracha, maple syrup, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry.
3. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the sauce mixture and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
### **3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables**
1. In the same skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced bell peppers and dried chilies (if using). Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Toss in the roasted peanuts or cashews and cook for another minute.
### **4. Combine and Serve**
1. Add the crispy cauliflower florets to the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Pour the prepared Kung Pao sauce over the cauliflower and toss to coat evenly.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
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## **Serving Suggestions**
Serve your Kung Pao Cauliflower over steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Pair it with a side of stir-fried greens or a fresh cucumber salad for added crunch and freshness.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
- **Vegan-Friendly:** A perfect plant-based alternative to traditional Kung Pao Chicken.
- **Crispy and Flavorful:** The cauliflower is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, coated in a rich, spicy-sweet sauce.
- **Customizable:** Adjust the spice level to suit your taste by adding more or fewer chilies.
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Enjoy this Kung Pao Cauliflower as a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!