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Crispy General Tsos Cauliflower Recipe Easy Sticky Sauce Delight

crispy general tsos cauliflower - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy battered cauliflower tossed in a sticky, tangy General Tso’s sauce, perfect for a satisfying plant-based meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • Vegetable oil or peanut oil for deep frying (about 2-3 cups)
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tsp chili flakes or 1 tbsp sriracha
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets and dry completely.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add cold water, whisking until smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or wok to 350°F (175°C). Test oil by dropping a small bit of batter; it should sizzle and float immediately.
  4. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip off, then fry in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels or wire rack.
  5. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes. Bring to a simmer, stirring to dissolve sugar.
  6. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until thick and glossy. Remove from heat.
  7. Place fried cauliflower in a large bowl, pour sauce over, and gently toss to coat.
  8. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Notes

Keep cauliflower dry before battering for crispiness. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature. Toss cauliflower in sauce just before serving to keep crunch. Baking option available at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: General Tso's cauliflower, crispy cauliflower, sticky sauce, vegetarian, plant-based, easy dinner, gluten-free option