Are you tired of the same old boring side dishes? Look no further! Cauliflower is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be transformed into a variety of mouthwatering dishes, each with its own unique flavor profile. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Asia, exploring 18 flavorful cauliflower recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From the spicy kick of Korean gochujang to the sweet and sour tanginess of Thai coconut curry, these innovative recipes showcase the amazing possibilities of cauliflower in Asian cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, you’ll find inspiration in this collection of international flavors and techniques. So let’s dive in and discover the incredible world of Asian-inspired cauliflower dishes!
Spicy Korean Gochujang Cauliflower
Elevate your vegetable game with this addictive and aromatic Spicy Korean Gochujang Cauliflower recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a flavorful side dish. The sweet and spicy gochujang sauce brings out the natural sweetness of the cauliflower, making it a delightful and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until well coated with the marinade.
4. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Cauliflower Stir-Fry
A sweet and savory stir-fry that’s perfect as a side dish or main course, this Teriyaki Glazed Cauliflower recipe combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the rich flavors of soy sauce and honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
3. Add the cauliflower florets; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce and honey.
5. Pour the glaze over the cauliflower; stir to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Szechuan-Style Crispy Cauliflower
A spicy and savory twist on traditional roasted cauliflower, this recipe adds a crispy coating and bold Szechuan flavors to elevate your vegetable game.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the cauliflower florets and toss until well coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray with vegetable oil. Arrange the cauliflower in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and caramelized.
5. Serve hot, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and chopped scallions (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Cauliflower
This recipe transforms cauliflower into a rich and aromatic Thai-inspired dish, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With the combination of creamy coconut milk, tangy fish sauce, and fragrant curry paste, this flavorful vegetable dish is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) of full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons of fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the curry paste and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the cauliflower and stir to combine with the curry paste mixture.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and fish sauce (if using).
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Ginger Soy Cauliflower Bites
Transform cauliflower into a delicious and aromatic snack with this simple recipe. A flavorful combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce adds depth to these bite-sized treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds or chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Add the cauliflower florets and toss until well coated.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the cauliflower and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss again to combine.
4. Spread the cauliflower mixture on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Sour Cauliflower with Pineapple
Sweet and Sour Cauliflower with Pineapple: A flavorful and colorful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the tanginess of pineapple, all wrapped up in a sweet and sour sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread cauliflower on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. While cauliflower is roasting, combine pineapple chunks, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce in a small saucepan.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Toss roasted cauliflower with sweet and sour pineapple sauce and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Hoisin-Glazed Cauliflower Skewers
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and savory cauliflower skewers, perfectly glazed with a mixture of hoisin sauce and honey. A quick and easy appetizer or side dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss to coat with the glaze.
4. Thread the glazed cauliflower onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Five-Spice Roasted Cauliflower
Elevate your cauliflower game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, infused with the warmth of Chinese five-spice powder.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Chinese five-spice powder, soy sauce, and honey until well combined.
3. Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the spice mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vietnamese Lemongrass Cauliflower Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the tangy flavors of lemongrass, lime, and chili peppers. A perfect side dish or light lunch for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised
– 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon of fish sauce (or to taste)
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with lemongrass, lime juice, fish sauce, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Spread on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cauliflower is tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Remove from oven and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Miso-Glazed Cauliflower
Elevate your cauliflower game with this sweet and savory Japanese-inspired recipe. The miso glaze adds a rich, umami flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender, roasted vegetable.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons of white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons of maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 cup of water
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine miso paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
3. Add water to the glaze and stir until combined.
4. Toss cauliflower florets with the miso glaze until evenly coated.
5. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Indian Spiced Cauliflower Pakoras
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, flavorful Cauliflower Pakoras, infused with the warmth of Indian spices. Perfect for a quick bite or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
• 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
• 1/2 cup chickpea flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup lukewarm water
• Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together chickpea flour, cornstarch, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and salt.
2. Add the baking soda and lukewarm water to form a thick batter.
3. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, coating it evenly.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the battered cauliflower florets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Malaysian Satay Cauliflower with Peanut Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Southeast Asia with this innovative twist on traditional satay. Tender cauliflower florets are marinated in a zesty mixture of peanut sauce, lime juice, and spices, then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, ginger, and cayenne pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the peanut sauce and 1 tablespoon of the marinade (reserving the remaining marinade). Add cauliflower florets and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove cauliflower from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill cauliflower for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
5. Serve hot with additional peanut sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Bang Bang Cauliflower with Sesame Seeds
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this addictive and flavorful recipe! Crunchy cauliflower florets are tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce, then topped with nutty sesame seeds for an unforgettable snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 1/2 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and separate into florets.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, Gochujang, and ginger.
4. Add the sesame oil and whisk until smooth.
5. Toss the cauliflower with the sauce until well coated.
6. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
8. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Indonesian Sambal Cauliflower Stir-Fry
Elevate your vegetable stir-fries with the bold flavors of Indonesia’s sambal chili sauce and the crunch of cauliflower. This quick and easy recipe combines the two in a harmonious balance of spicy and sweet.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sambal chili sauce ( Indonesian chili paste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add cauliflower; stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together sambal chili sauce, soy sauce, and water.
5. Pour the sauce over the cauliflower; stir-fry until well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Filipino Adobo Cauliflower Stew
This hearty stew is a twist on the classic Filipino dish, using cauliflower instead of meat to create a deliciously flavorful and nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or cane)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the cauliflower florets; cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, vinegar, soy sauce, and black pepper.
5. Pour the mixture over the cauliflower mixture; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 15-20 minutes or until cauliflower is tender.
7. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Basil Cauliflower Fried Rice
Transform cauliflower into a flavorful fried rice dish infused with Thai basil and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked chicken or tofu, diced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cauliflower, chicken/tofu, ginger, curry paste, and Thai basil; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until cauliflower is tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt, pepper, soy sauce, and brown sugar to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Thai basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Kimchi Cauliflower Pancakes
These crispy Korean-inspired pancakes combine the flavors of kimchi with the nutty sweetness of cauliflower, making for a unique and delicious snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, grated
– 1/2 cup kimchi, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated cauliflower, chopped kimchi, flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.
2. Add the beaten egg to the bowl and mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the cauliflower mixture into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on the size of the pancakes.
Chinese Black Bean Sauce Cauliflower
Transform cauliflower into a flavorful and nutritious dish with this easy recipe, inspired by the bold flavors of Chinese cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fermented black beans (doubanjiang)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower with vegetable oil, garlic, and salt.
3. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. While the cauliflower is roasting, whisk together black beans, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sugar in a small bowl.
5. Remove the cauliflower from the oven and toss with the black bean sauce until well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to experience the bold and aromatic flavors of Asia with these 18 mouth-watering cauliflower recipes! From spicy Korean gochujang to sweet and sour Thai-style, each dish showcases a unique twist on this versatile vegetable. Try making crispy Szechuan-style cauliflower, or indulge in Japanese miso-glazed goodness. The list also includes popular dishes like Chinese five-spice roasted cauliflower and Indian spiced cauliflower pakoras. With a variety of flavors and textures to explore, you’ll be cooking up Asian-inspired masterpieces in no time!
