Honey Garlic Cauliflower is a delightful combination of crispy, fried cauliflower florets enveloped in a sweet and savory sauce. This dish perfectly balances the heat from chili powder and chili flakes with the sweetness of honey, resulting in an irresistible treat that can serve as an appetizer or a main course. The addition of soy sauce and vinegar brings a tangy depth of flavor, while the garlic and onions provide a savory foundation that enhances the overall taste experience.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Batter:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
- 2 Tbsp corn flour
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- Water (as needed)
- Oil for deep frying
For the Honey Garlic Cauliflower:
- Fried cauliflower florets
- 3 tsp oil
- 2 Tbsp garlic, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- 2 tsp soy sauce
- 2 tsp vinegar
- 3 Tbsp tomato ketchup
- Water (as needed)
- Corn flour slurry (corn flour mixed with water)
- 2 Tbsp honey
- Spring onions, chopped
Directions:
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Cut the cauliflower into medium-sized florets and soak them in hot water for 5 minutes. Strain and set aside.
- Make the Batter:
- In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, corn flour, salt, chili powder, and black pepper.
- Gradually add water to form a slightly thick batter to coat the cauliflower pieces.
- Coat the Cauliflower:
- Add the blanched cauliflower pieces to the batter and mix well to ensure each piece is coated.
- Deep Fry the Cauliflower:
- Heat oil in a pan for deep frying.
- Deep fry the coated cauliflower florets until they turn golden brown on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In another pan, heat 3 tsp of oil.
- Add the chopped garlic and onions. Sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Add salt, chili powder, chili flakes, and pepper powder. Mix well.
- Add soy sauce, vinegar, and tomato ketchup. Stir to combine.
- Add water to dilute the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Prepare a corn flour slurry by mixing corn flour with water. Add it to the pan and stir well.
- Cook the sauce for about a minute until it thickens slightly.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add the fried cauliflower florets to the pan and mix until they are fully coated with the sauce.
- Turn off the heat. Add honey and chopped spring onions. Mix well.
- Serve hot and enjoy your Honey Garlic Cauliflower.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe offers several nutritional benefits, especially when enjoyed in moderation:
- Cauliflower: Rich in vitamins C and K, cauliflower is a low-calorie vegetable that also provides fiber, which is essential for digestive health. It’s also a good source of antioxidants that help reduce inflammation.
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic also adds a distinct flavor and numerous health benefits, including improved heart health and reduced blood pressure.
- Honey: A natural sweetener, honey not only adds sweetness to the dish but also brings antioxidants and antibacterial properties.
Preparation Tips
To make your Honey Garlic Cauliflower turn out perfectly, follow these tips:
- Batter Consistency: Ensure the batter is thick enough to coat the cauliflower evenly. If it’s too thin, the cauliflower won’t achieve that desirable crispy texture.
- Frying Technique: Fry the cauliflower in small batches to prevent overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust the water in the sauce to achieve your preferred consistency. For a thicker sauce, use less water and add more corn flour slurry as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Honey Garlic Cauliflower can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Appetizer: Serve it as an appetizer at parties or gatherings. The sweet and spicy flavor will surely impress your guests.
- Main Course: Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. The sauce-soaked cauliflower florets complement these sides beautifully.
- Garnish: Sprinkle additional chopped spring onions or sesame seeds on top for added flavor and presentation.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and chili flakes to control the heat. For a milder version, reduce these ingredients or omit the chili flakes entirely.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Options: Ensure that the ingredients used are vegetarian or vegan-friendly, especially the sauces and honey. You can replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan version.
- Additional Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots to add more color and nutrition to the dish.
Storage and Reheating
To store leftovers, place the Honey Garlic Cauliflower in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the cauliflower in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This will help retain its crispiness compared to microwaving.
Conclusion
Honey Garlic Cauliflower is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings together the best of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. With its crispy texture and vibrant sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be served on various occasions. Whether you’re making it as a quick weeknight dinner or as a special treat for guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Experiment with different ingredients and enjoy the delightful taste of homemade Honey Garlic Cauliflower.