Sweet & Sour Cauliflower is a flavorful vegetarian dish featuring crispy cauliflower florets coated in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or a main course with rice, this dish brings bold Asian-inspired flavors and a satisfying texture that’s sure to impress both veggie lovers and meat-eaters alike.

ingredients

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

cauliflower cornstarchall-purpose flourbaking powdersaltgarlic powdersoy saucesweet chili saucesrirachatomato ketchuprice vinegarbrown sugarpineapple juicevegetable oilgreen onionssesame seeds

directions

Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets and set aside.

In a bowl, mix cornstarch, all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. Add water gradually to form a thick batter.

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s well coated.

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan and fry the coated florets in batches until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

In a separate saucepan, combine soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and pineapple juice. Simmer over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly.

Add the fried cauliflower to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.

Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add chopped bell peppers and pineapple chunks for extra flavor and texture.
Make it gluten-free by using rice flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Roast the cauliflower instead of frying for a lighter option.
Top with crushed peanuts for a nutty crunch.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Sweet & Sour Cauliflower in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cauliflower soggy.

FAQs

Can I bake the cauliflower instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier version.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes, it’s completely plant-based and suitable for a vegan diet.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Fresh is best for texture, but you can use thawed frozen cauliflower if patted dry thoroughly.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or even lettuce wraps.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, adjust the sugar to taste or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup.

How spicy is the dish?

It has a mild kick, but you can increase or reduce the sriracha according to preference.

Do I need a wok?

A deep skillet or saucepan works just as well.

Can I make this dish nut-free?

Yes, just skip any nut-based toppings like peanuts or sesame if needed.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the sauce and chop cauliflower ahead of time.

Conclusion

Sweet & Sour Cauliflower is a deliciously bold and satisfying dish that brings together crispy texture and mouthwatering flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, side, or main, it’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that will make your meatless meals feel anything but boring.