Are you looking for a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional cauliflower dishes? Look no further! Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways to bring out its natural sweetness. When paired with bold and spicy flavors, it becomes a game-changer. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that combine the humble head of cauliflower with the bold spices and sauces of Chinese cuisine.
From Sichuan-style stir-fries to sweet and sour bites, these recipes are sure to spice up your cooking routine. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these easy-to-follow instructions will guide you through the preparation of each dish. So go ahead, get creative, and add some heat to your meals!
Sichuan-style spicy stir-fried cauliflower
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this addictive and spicy stir-fry recipe that transforms cauliflower into a savory delight. This dish combines the crunch of cauliflower with the depth of Sichuan peppercorns, chili flakes, and fermented soybeans.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons fermented soybeans (doubanjiang)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, onion, Sichuan peppercorns, and chili flakes; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add cauliflower and fermented soybeans; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until cauliflower is tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic ginger cauliflower stir-fry
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the savory flavors of garlic and ginger, making it a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this tasty stir-fry in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the cauliflower florets; stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kung Pao cauliflower with peanuts
This recipe is a creative twist on the classic Chinese dish Kung Pao chicken, substituting cauliflower for protein. The result is a flavorful and textured vegetarian delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1/4 cup peanuts or cashews
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons chili flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger paste; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add cauliflower and peanuts; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until cauliflower is tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, cornstarch, and chili flakes.
5. Pour the sauce over the cauliflower mixture; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese five-spice roasted cauliflower
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the warm, aromatic flavors of Chinese five-spice powder, resulting in a deliciously addictive side dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, Chinese five-spice powder, salt, and black pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until cauliflower is tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through cooking time.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mapo tofu with cauliflower
Mapo tofu, a classic Sichuan dish, gets a delicious twist by adding cauliflower to the rich and spicy stir-fry. This vegetarian version is just as flavorful and satisfying as its traditional counterpart.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 cup fermented bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. In the same wok, add garlic, ginger, and fermented bean paste. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add cauliflower and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until tender.
5. Return tofu to the wok and add soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch mixture. Stir-fry until sauce thickens.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and sour cauliflower bites
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this crispy and tangy cauliflower bites recipe! Crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, these bite-sized morsels are perfect as a snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem.
2. Cut into small florets and pulse in a food processor until coarsely chopped.
3. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg.
4. Add the chopped cauliflower to the mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each piece.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Toss in sweet and sour sauce before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black bean sauce cauliflower stir-fry
This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted cauliflower with the spicy kick of black bean sauce, all wrapped up in a quick and easy stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of black bean sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the cauliflower with 1 tablespoon of oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes or until softened.
3. Add the garlic and black bean sauce to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce is heated through.
4. Add the roasted cauliflower to the skillet and stir-fry for about 1 minute, until coated with the sauce.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
General Tso’s cauliflower
Elevate your veggie game with this addictive cauliflower recipe that combines the flavors of General Tso’s chicken with a crispy, flavorful twist. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with vegetable oil, garlic, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Spread cauliflower mixture on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese cauliflower fried rice
Transform leftover cauliflower into a delicious and nutritious fried rice dish with an Asian twist. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of cauliflower with savory ingredients to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cooked cauliflower; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Szechuan cauliflower noodles
Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this spicy and savory cauliflower noodle dish. This recipe is a creative twist on traditional Chinese cooking, featuring roasted cauliflower as the star of the show.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz noodles (such as rice noodles or udon)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook onion and garlic over medium-high heat until caramelized.
4. Add toasted Szechuan peppercorns, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Add roasted cauliflower to the skillet and toss with the spicy sauce.
6. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Combine with the cauliflower mixture and serve.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Braised cauliflower in oyster sauce
This savory and umami-rich recipe elevates humble cauliflower to new heights by braising it in a rich oyster sauce-based sauce. Perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for noodles, rice, or roasted meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the cauliflower and cook until slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce and chicken broth.
5. Pour the sauce over the cauliflower and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and braise for 10-12 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Chinese cauliflower and shrimp stir-fry
This recipe combines the crunch of cauliflower with the sweetness of shrimp in a savory and aromatic stir-fry, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the cauliflower florets and cook until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cauliflower and mushroom stir-fry
This simple and flavorful recipe combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the mild sweetness of cauliflower, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup of button mushrooms, sliced
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cauliflower florets and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Chinese-style cauliflower soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of cauliflower soup infused with the aromatic flavors of China. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional soups, featuring tender cauliflower in a savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cauliflower; cook for 5 minutes or until tender.
4. Pour in broth, water, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat; simmer for 15-20 minutes or until soup is creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper; garnish with scallions.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cauliflower and tofu in garlic sauce
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the savory flavors of garlic and crispy tofu, making it a perfect vegetarian dish for any occasion. With its bold and aromatic flavors, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 block of firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
3. In a pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a separate pan, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add soy sauce and honey; stir well to combine.
5. Combine roasted cauliflower with cooked tofu and garlic sauce. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chinese cauliflower pancakes
Delve into the flavors of China with these crispy and savory pancakes, packed with cauliflower and a hint of ginger. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this recipe is a delicious twist on traditional Chinese cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, grated
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cauliflower, garlic, and ginger.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the cauliflower mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Gradually add water and mix until a thick batter forms.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the oil and flatten slightly.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
8. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Steamed cauliflower with soy and sesame
This simple yet flavorful recipe elevates steamed cauliflower to a new level by adding the savory goodness of soy sauce and the nutty taste of sesame oil. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of water to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the cauliflower florets. Cover with a lid.
3. Steam for 5-7 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sesame oil.
5. Remove the cauliflower from the pot and place in a serving dish.
6. Pour the soy-sesame mixture over the cauliflower and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crispy sesame cauliflower
This recipe transforms cauliflower into a crispy, savory snack that’s perfect for appetizers or as a side dish. With the addition of sesame seeds and a flavorful sauce, you’ll be hooked on this easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove any leaves or stems.
3. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the cauliflower, followed by soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
5. Sprinkle the sesame seeds evenly over the cauliflower.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 mouth-watering Chinese-inspired cauliflower recipes! From Sichuan-style spicy stir-fries to sweet and sour bites, there’s something for everyone. Try Kung Pao cauliflower with peanuts, Chinese five-spice roasted cauliflower, or Mapo tofu with a twist of cauliflower. For a satisfying meal, go for General Tso’s cauliflower or braised cauliflower in oyster sauce. And don’t forget the comfort food options like crispy sesame cauliflower and steamed cauliflower with soy and sesame. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or savory, these recipes are sure to delight!
