If you’re looking for a vegan dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and better than meat, you’ve found it! This crispy baked cauliflower recipe is a delightful treat for your taste buds. Perfectly seasoned and baked to golden perfection, these cauliflower bites are an excellent alternative to traditional meat dishes. Paired with a refreshing and tangy dip sauce, this recipe is a must-try for any vegan or anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.
Ingredients for Cauliflower:
- 1 head of cauliflower
- 150g (1 cup) chickpea crumbs or breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tbsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tbsp Italian herbs
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 30g (2 tbsp) dairy-free Parmesan or 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 4 tbsp olive oil
Ingredients for Batter:
- 100g (1/2 cup) chickpea flour (gram flour)
- Water (enough to make a batter)
- Pinch of salt
Ingredients for Dip Sauce:
- 250g (1 cup) coconut yogurt or any dairy-free yogurt
- 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cucumber, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped dill
- Black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Wash the cauliflower and cut it into bite-sized florets.
- In a large bowl, mix the chickpea flour, water, and a pinch of salt to create a smooth batter. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the florets but not too thick.
- Coat the Cauliflower:
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- In another bowl, mix the chickpea crumbs or breadcrumbs with garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, black pepper, and dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
- Transfer each battered floret to the breadcrumb mixture and coat evenly.
- Arrange the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cauliflower is crispy and golden. Flip halfway through baking to ensure even crispiness.
- Prepare the Dip Sauce:
- While the cauliflower bakes, prepare the dip. In a bowl, combine the coconut yogurt, minced garlic, diced cucumber, chopped dill, black pepper, salt, lemon juice, olive oil, and chili flakes if using. Mix well until fully combined.
- Chill the dip in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Serve:
- Once the cauliflower is done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Serve the crispy baked cauliflower hot with the chilled dip on the side.
Nutritional Information
Benefits:
This crispy baked cauliflower dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:
- Cauliflower: Rich in vitamins C and K, folate, and fiber, cauliflower supports immune function, bone health, and digestion.
- Chickpea Flour: A great source of protein and fiber, chickpea flour helps in maintaining muscle mass and digestive health.
- Coconut Yogurt: Provides probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health, along with healthy fats and protein.
- Dairy-Free Parmesan or Nutritional Yeast: Adds a cheesy flavor while being rich in B vitamins and protein.
Tips and Variations
- Breadcrumb Variations: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Spice Level: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the batter for an extra kick of heat.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro can be added to the dip for additional flavor.
- Make It Extra Crispy: Double-dip the cauliflower florets in the batter and breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating.
Serving Suggestions
- Main Course: Enjoy the crispy cauliflower as a main course with a side of rice or quinoa and a fresh green salad.
- Appetizer: Serve the cauliflower bites as a tasty appetizer for parties and gatherings.
- Side Dish: This dish can also complement other main courses such as vegan burgers, wraps, or grain bowls.
Cooking Tips
- Batter Consistency: Ensure the batter is not too thick or too runny for even coating.
- Even Baking: Flip the cauliflower halfway through baking to ensure even crispiness on all sides.
- Dip Storage: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.