Sweet & Sour Cauliflower

Sweet & Sour Cauliflower is a vibrant and flavorful plant-based twist on a takeout classic. Crispy cauliflower florets are coated in a tangy, glossy sweet and sour sauce, making this dish a guaranteed hit for weeknight dinners, parties, or satisfying snack cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings all the bold flavors of sweet and sour chicken—without the meat. It’s perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to enjoy more vegetables in a fun and flavorful way. The crispy texture, sticky sauce, and balanced taste of sweet, tangy, and savory notes make it incredibly addictive. Plus, it’s baked or air-fried instead of deep-fried, so you can enjoy it guilt-free.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cauliflower florets
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Plant-based milk (like almond or soy)
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Oil spray (for baking or air frying)
• Ketchup
• Rice vinegar
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar or maple syrup
• Pineapple juice (optional, for extra flavor)
• Cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water for thickening)
• Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Prepare the batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and plant milk until smooth.
2. Coat the cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let excess drip off.
3. Bake or air fry: Arrange coated cauliflower on a lined baking sheet or air fryer basket. Spray lightly with oil.
   • Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
   • Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway.
4. Make the sauce: While the cauliflower cooks, combine ketchup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and pineapple juice (if using) in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until slightly thickened. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 2–3 minutes until glossy and thick.
5. Toss and serve: Add crispy cauliflower to the sauce and toss gently until evenly coated. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3–4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for heat.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Sticky orange twist: Swap out the vinegar and ketchup for orange juice and zest for a citrusy variation.
• Add protein: Toss in baked tofu or tempeh for extra protein.
• Extra crispy: Double-bake or air fry the cauliflower briefly before saucing to maintain crispiness.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake or air fry for a few minutes at 375°F (190°C) until hot and slightly crispy. Microwaving works too but may soften the texture.
Avoid freezing once sauced, as it may turn mushy—freeze the battered, baked cauliflower separately if prepping ahead.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, but thaw and pat it dry first to avoid soggy results.

How do I keep the cauliflower crispy?

Use an air fryer or bake on a wire rack, and only toss in sauce right before serving.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheat before using.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be—just use gluten-free flour and tamari in place of soy sauce.

Can I pan-fry the cauliflower instead?

You can shallow-fry it in oil, but baking or air frying is healthier and less messy.

What’s the best substitute for pineapple juice?

Orange juice or apple cider vinegar can give a similar tangy-sweet effect.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use two baking sheets or cook in batches for air frying.

Is this kid-friendly?

Very! The sweet and tangy flavor is a favorite with kids—just skip the spice.

What else can I serve this with?

Serve with jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles for a full meal.

How long does it stay crispy?

It’s crispiest right after cooking. Once sauced, enjoy immediately for the best texture.

Conclusion

Sweet & Sour Cauliflower is a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that proves plant-based eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. With its crispy coating and tangy-sweet sauce, this dish rivals any restaurant version—and it’s healthier, too. Try it once, and it’ll quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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