The Starving Chef Recipe: Kung Pow Cauliflower

Kung Pow Cauliflower
Embracing the cauliflower craze, this recipe is all about bold flavors and healthier eating.

By Felicia Vargo, The Starving Chef

Embracing the cauliflower craze, this recipe is all about bold flavors and healthier eating. It’s a game-changer in the kitchen, perfectly balancing sweet, spicy and crispy in every bite.

Kung Pow Cauliflower

Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

1 head cauliflower, chopped into florets
½ C sweet bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
1 C vegetable oil for frying
¼ C + 1 C flour (divided)
1½ C whole milk
¼ t salt
1 t sugar
1 t baking soda
¼ C red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)

For the Sauce:
3 T honey
¼ C soy sauce
1 T ginger, minced
1 T rice vinegar
1 T cornstarch
1 T garlic, minced
1 T sugar
1 T red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)

For the Toppings:
2 green onions, chopped
2 T sesame seeds
2 T crushed peanuts

Here’s How
  1. Prepare the cauliflower by cutting it into bite-size florets. Place in a large bowl and sprinkle with ¼ C flour, tossing gently.
  2. In a separate large bowl, whisk together remaining 1 C flour, milk, salt, sugar, baking soda and red pepper flakes until smooth.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Test oil readiness with a teaspoon of batter—it should fizzle and start to brown.
  4. Dredge 3-4 florets at a time in batter, then fry in hot oil for 3-4 minutes until light golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer florets to a paper towel-lined plate. Fry in a single layer for best results.
  5. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Lightly grease a baking sheet.
  6. Arrange fried cauliflower and bell pepper slices in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes until cauliflower is crispy and peppers are softened.
  7. For the sauce, combine honey, soy sauce, ginger, rice vinegar, cornstarch, garlic, sugar, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.
  8. Toss baked cauliflower in sauce, coating evenly. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, and crushed peanuts.

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Categories: Food & Dining