Are you ready to ignite your taste buds? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouth-watering and flavorful spicy Chinese cauliflower recipes that will elevate your cooking game. From savory stir-fries to sweet and sour bites, these dishes are sure to tantalize your senses.
We’ll start with some classic combinations, like Dry-Fried Chinese Cauliflower with Chili and Garlic, which is a staple in many Chinese restaurants. Then, we’ll venture into the realm of Sichuan cuisine with recipes like Kung Pao Cauliflower with Peanuts and Scallions, and Spicy Cauliflower and Tofu in Oyster Sauce.
Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to add some excitement to your meals, these spicy Chinese cauliflower recipes are sure to please. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of fiery flavors and tender, crispy textures!
Dry-Fried Chinese Cauliflower with Chili and Garlic
This spicy and savory dish is a popular Chinese street food that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and addictive snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cauliflower and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to brown.
3. Add the garlic, onion, and chili flakes. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sichuan-Style Spicy Cauliflower Stir-Fry
This Sichuan-inspired dish combines the crunch of cauliflower with the bold flavors of chili oil, garlic, and ginger. A perfect vegetarian option for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your favorite stir-fries.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup chili oil (Sichuan peppercorn-infused)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of chili oil and swirl to coat the pan.
3. Add cauliflower, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender-crisp.
4. Add soy sauce; stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Kung Pao Cauliflower with Peanuts and Scallions
This recipe takes the classic Sichuan dish and gives it a vegetarian twist, swapping chicken for crispy cauliflower. The spicy peanut sauce adds rich and creamy depth to this flavorful stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup peanuts
– 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add cauliflower and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, peppercorns, peanuts, scallions, soy sauce, wine, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Cauliflower in Black Bean Sauce
This recipe brings together the comforting flavors of cauliflower and black beans, elevated by a savory sauce and aromatic spices. Perfect as a side dish or incorporated into your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, onion, and cauliflower; cook until cauliflower is tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
3. Add black beans, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sugar, and ginger; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds (if desired).
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Chinese Cauliflower Rice
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional rice, this recipe combines the creaminess of butter with the pungency of garlic and the nuttiness of cauliflower. Perfect as a side dish or used as a base for your favorite stir-fries!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse cauliflower and remove leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. Toss cauliflower with butter, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a bowl until well coated.
4. Spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cauliflower and Tofu in Oyster Sauce
Elevate your stir-fry game with this bold and savory recipe, where the spicy kick from chili flakes is balanced by the rich umami flavor of oyster sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add cauliflower and chili flakes to the pan. Stir-fry for 5 minutes or until cauliflower is tender-crisp.
5. Return tofu to the pan and stir in oyster sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stir-Fried Chinese Cauliflower with Bell Peppers
Experience the vibrant flavors of China with this simple and delicious stir-fry recipe, featuring tender cauliflower florets and crunchy bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Chinese cauliflower (also known as gai lan or Chinese broccoli), cut into florets
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the cauliflower and bell peppers; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Add the soy sauce and continue stir-frying for another minute, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cauliflower Manchurian with Crispy Batter
A delicious Chinese-inspired dish that combines the crunch of a crispy batter coating with the tender, flavorful cauliflower. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– For the sauce: 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon garlic minced, and 1 teaspoon ginger minced
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
2. Gradually add soda water to the dry mixture and stir until a thick batter forms.
3. Dip cauliflower florets into the batter, then coat with a thin layer of vegetable oil.
4. Fry battered cauliflower in hot oil (350°F) for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Drain excess oil and toss cauliflower with sauce ingredients.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sesame Ginger Glazed Chinese Cauliflower
Elevate your cauliflower game with this sweet and savory Asian-inspired dish. This recipe is a perfect combination of textures and flavors, making it a great side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until well coated with the glaze.
4. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Sour Cauliflower Bites
Sweet and Sour Cauliflower Bites Recipe
Get ready to indulge your taste buds with this crispy and tangy snack! Sweet and Sour Cauliflower Bites are an easy-to-make, flavorful treat that’s perfect for a quick appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil until evenly coated, then add the dry mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Spread cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle sweet and sour sauce over the top and toss to coat.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese Cauliflower and Pork Stir-Fry
This savory and aromatic stir-fry combines tender pork, crisp cauliflower, and a medley of Asian-inspired flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork loin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the cauliflower florets and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the cooked pork to the skillet and stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cauliflower Fried Rice with Eggs and Scallions
Transform cauliflower into a delicious fried rice dish, packed with protein-rich eggs and crunchy scallions. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, garlic powder, or other seasonings to your liking
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the processed cauliflower and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until tender.
3. Push the cauliflower to one side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the empty side and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Mix the eggs with the cauliflower. Stir in chopped scallions and season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional flavorings.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Five-Spice Roasted Chinese Cauliflower
Elevate your vegetable game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the warmth of five-spice powder. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, wraps, or bowls.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup soy sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, five-spice powder, salt, and black pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. If using soy sauce, drizzle over the roasted cauliflower during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chinese Cauliflower Soup with Ginger and Mushrooms
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of Asian flavors, featuring tender cauliflower, aromatic ginger, and earthy mushrooms. Serve it as a starter or alongside your favorite noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cauliflower
– 2 inches of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced ginger and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cauliflower, vegetable broth, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
5. Purée the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mapo Tofu with Cauliflower and Minced Pork
Mapo tofu is a classic Sichuan dish that combines the creamy texture of tofu with the bold flavors of chili peppers, garlic, and fermented soybeans. This variation adds roasted cauliflower for added nutrition and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1 head cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon minced pork
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup fermented soybeans (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 cup chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower with 1 tablespoon oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat. Add minced pork and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add garlic, Sichuan peppercorns, fermented soybeans, and chili bean paste to the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add tofu cubes to the pan and stir to combine with the sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until tofu is coated.
5. Serve mapo tofu with roasted cauliflower and garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Crispy Cauliflower in General Tso’s Sauce
Transform cauliflower into a crispy, savory delight with this easy recipe that combines the flavors of General Tso’s sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– General Tso’s sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Toss cauliflower florets with the dry mixture until well coated.
4. Drizzle vegetable oil over the cauliflower and toss to coat evenly.
5. Spread cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve hot with General Tso’s sauce drizzled over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stir-Fried Cauliflower with Shrimp and Garlic
This recipe combines the crunch of cauliflower, the succulence of shrimp, and the pungency of garlic for a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s ready in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the cauliflower and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until pink and cooked through.
5. Season with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using), then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Braised Chinese Cauliflower in Soy-Ginger Broth
Braised Chinese Cauliflower in Soy-Ginger Broth: A flavorful and aromatic dish that showcases the tender beauty of cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 4 cups soy-ginger broth (see note)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add cauliflower florets; cook until tender, stirring occasionally (5-7 minutes).
4. Pour in soy-ginger broth, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 10-15 minutes or until cauliflower is very tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with scallions before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 18 delicious and flavorful Chinese cauliflower recipes! From classic stir-fries to innovative twists, this collection offers something for every taste. Try dry-frying cauliflower with chili and garlic, or giving it a Sichuan-style kick with peanuts and scallions. Or, go sweet and sour with bites of crispy cauliflower. Whether you’re in the mood for savory, spicy, or comforting, these recipes will inspire your next culinary adventure. Explore the world of Chinese cuisine through the humble cauliflower and elevate your cooking game!
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