This General Tso Cauliflower is a healthier, plant-based take on the classic Chinese-American favorite. Instead of deep-frying, the cauliflower is baked until crispy, then coated in a bold, flavorful sauce that perfectly balances sweetness, spice, and umami. It’s an easy yet impressive dish, ideal for serving over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to wow your guests, this crispy, saucy, and satisfying cauliflower is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
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1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
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1 cup water
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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2 cups panko breadcrumbs
General Tso Sauce:
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½ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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¼ cup rice vinegar
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¼ cup maple syrup
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1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
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1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
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1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon sesame oil
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to spice preference)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a bowl, whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to form a batter.
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Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
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Arrange florets on the baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
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While cauliflower bakes, prepare the sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, sauté garlic and ginger in sesame oil for 1 minute.
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Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, hoisin sauce, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
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Mix cornstarch slurry and add to the sauce. Stir continuously until thickened (about 2-3 minutes), then remove from heat.
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Toss the crispy cauliflower in the sauce until evenly coated.
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Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why Choose Cauliflower?
Cauliflower has become a favorite ingredient in plant-based cooking due to its versatility and ability to absorb flavors. When roasted or baked, it develops a delightful crispy texture, making it an excellent substitute for fried chicken. Additionally, cauliflower is packed with nutrients such as fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making this dish a great choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Health Benefits of Cauliflower
- Low in Calories: Cauliflower is naturally low in calories, making it a great choice for those watching their intake.
- Rich in Fiber: Supports digestion and gut health.
- High in Antioxidants: Helps reduce inflammation and supports overall wellness.
- Versatile and Satisfying: Provides a satisfying bite when baked or roasted, making it a great substitute for fried foods.
The Secret to a Perfectly Crispy Texture
One of the most important aspects of General Tso Cauliflower is achieving the right texture. Traditional General Tso’s Chicken is deep-fried, but this recipe uses a baking method that ensures crispiness without excess oil. The key to a crunchy coating is a batter made from flour and seasonings, followed by a layer of panko breadcrumbs. This combination creates a crispy exterior that holds up well to the sauce.
Tips for Maximum Crispiness
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: These are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs.
- Bake at a High Temperature: A 400°F (200°C) oven ensures a golden, crunchy texture.
- Space Out the Cauliflower: Crowding the baking sheet can cause steaming instead of crisping.
- Flip Halfway Through Baking: This ensures even browning on all sides.
The Bold Flavors of General Tso Sauce
The signature element of General Tso Cauliflower is its sauce an irresistible blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. This sauce is made with ingredients like soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, maple syrup, and garlic, creating a rich and complex taste that pairs perfectly with crispy cauliflower.
Balancing the Flavors
- Sweetness: Maple syrup or brown sugar provides a hint of sweetness.
- Tanginess: Rice vinegar adds a slight acidity that balances the dish.
- Umami: Soy sauce and hoisin sauce create a deep, savory base.
- Spiciness: Red pepper flakes or chili paste add heat—adjust according to your preference.
- Aromatics: Fresh ginger and garlic enhance the depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
General Tso Cauliflower is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your dish:
Over Rice
Serving General Tso Cauliflower over steamed jasmine or brown rice allows the flavorful sauce to soak into the grains, making for a satisfying meal.
With Quinoa
For a high-protein, nutrient-dense option, serve over quinoa. The nutty flavor of quinoa complements the sweet and spicy sauce beautifully.
As a Side Dish
If you’re preparing a multi-course meal, this cauliflower dish makes a fantastic side. Pair it with stir-fried vegetables or a fresh Asian-inspired slaw.
Inside a Wrap or Taco
For a creative twist, use General Tso Cauliflower as a filling for tacos or lettuce wraps, adding some shredded cabbage and a drizzle of extra sauce.
Customization and Variations
This recipe is easily adaptable to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some variations you might enjoy:
Gluten-Free Option
To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend for the batter and substitute tamari for soy sauce. Make sure to use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs as well.
Extra Spicy Version
If you love heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of Sriracha to the sauce.
Air Fryer Method
For an even crispier texture, try making General Tso Cauliflower in an air fryer. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Adding Protein
For a protein-packed version, toss in some tofu or chickpeas before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier than Takeout: This dish delivers all the flavors of restaurant-style General Tso’s Chicken without the deep frying.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for home cooks of all levels.
- Packed with Flavor: The sauce is rich, bold, and customizable to your spice preference.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and reheat for a quick and delicious meal.
Conclusion:
General Tso Cauliflower is a fantastic plant-based alternative to a popular Chinese-American dish, delivering the same irresistible flavors with a healthier twist. With its crispy texture, bold sauce, and endless customization options, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this recipe is a delicious and satisfying choice. Enjoy it over rice, in a wrap, or on its own either way, it’s guaranteed to impress!