Crispy, tangy, and bursting with flavor, these orange cauliflower bites are a perfect vegan appetizer or snack.
Crispy, tangy, and bursting with flavor, these plant-based cauliflower bites are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party treat.
⏱ Time
Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 20–25 minutes | Serves: 2–4
🧺 Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for extra protein)
- ½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil
- For the orange sauce:
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water
- ½ tsp grated ginger
- Optional garnish: sesame seeds, chopped green onions
👩🍳 Instructions
Firstly, preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Next, whisk together flour, plant-based milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make a batter.
Then, dip cauliflower florets into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, and place them on the baking sheet.
After that, drizzle or brush olive oil over the florets and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
Meanwhile, prepare the orange sauce by combining orange juice, soy sauce, maple syrup, ginger, and cornstarch mixture in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until thickened.
Finally, toss the baked cauliflower in the orange sauce until evenly coated. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
🌟 Tips & Variations
- Extra Crispy: For crunchier bites, lightly coat the florets with breadcrumbs before baking.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 200°C (390°F) for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Spicy Version: Add red chili flakes or sriracha to the orange sauce for heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use chickpea flour or a gluten-free flour blend for the batter.
- Sauce Twist: Mix in a little garlic or vegan hoisin sauce for additional flavor.
🌿 Benefits of Orange Cauliflower Bites
Firstly, cauliflower is rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting immunity and digestive health.
Secondly, using plant-based ingredients makes this dish cholesterol-free and vegan-friendly, promoting heart health.
Moreover, the orange sauce provides natural vitamin C from fresh oranges, boosting immunity and skin health.
In addition, baking instead of deep-frying reduces unhealthy fats, making the dish lighter and healthier.
Furthermore, using spices like garlic and ginger adds anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, enhancing overall wellness.
As a result, these orange cauliflower bites are a nutritious, flavorful, and guilt-free snack or appetizer.
Finally, they are easy to make, customizable, and perfect for parties, meal prep, or family meals.
