Are you ready to take your taste buds on a delightful journey to the heart of Chinese cuisine? Our Vegan Kung Pao Cauliflower is a vibrant and mouthwatering dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also packs a nutritious punch! With crispy roasted cauliflower enveloped in a rich, flavorful sauce and topped with crunchy peanuts, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a plant-based twist on a classic favorite. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Don’t miss out on this culinary adventure—let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, peanut butter, minced garlic, and sesame oil until smooth and well combined to create the sauce.
- Add cauliflower florets to the sauce and toss thoroughly, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the marinade.
- Spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between pieces to ensure crispy edges.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cauliflower is golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- While cauliflower is roasting, toast the roasted peanuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes to enhance their flavor.
- Remove cauliflower from oven and sprinkle with red pepper flakes and toasted peanuts for added texture and heat.
- Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot as a main dish or appetizer.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Cauliflower: For the best texture and flavor, select a head of cauliflower that is firm and has tightly packed florets. Fresh cauliflower will roast better and provide a delightful crunch.
- Customize the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you love heat, feel free to add more or even include sliced fresh chili peppers for an extra kick!
- Roast for Crispiness: To achieve that perfect crispy texture, make sure to spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, so give them space to brown beautifully.
- Enhance the Peanut Flavor: Toasting the peanuts in a dry skillet not only enhances their flavor but also adds a delightful crunch to the dish. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of chopped green onions or sesame seeds not only adds a pop of color but also elevates the flavor profile. Don’t skip this step for a restaurant-quality finish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
