Vegan Orange Cauliflower Bites

Ingredients

• 1 cauliflower (large head, cut into bite-sized florets)
• 0.75 cup all-purpose flour (for the batter)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 0.5 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
• 0.75 cup soy milk (plain and unsweetened)
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger (minced)
• 2 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 3 dates (pitted, used as sweetener)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water for slurry)

Steps

1. 1

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, and salt. Whisk the dry ingredients together until well blended.

2. 2

   Pour the plain unsweetened soy milk over the flour mixture and whisk until a smooth batter forms.

3. 3

   Dip the cauliflower florets into the batter, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Place the florets into the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to crowd them to ensure they get crispy.

4. 4

   Air fry the cauliflower at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the bites are golden brown and crispy.

5. 5

   While the cauliflower is air frying, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, quickly sauté the minced fresh ginger and garlic until fragrant.

6. 6

   Add the freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and pitted dates to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

7. 7

   Let the sauce cook at a simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dates to soften.

8. 8

   Whisk in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a little water) and continue to cook until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.

9. 9

   Let the sauce cool slightly, then transfer it to a blender and process until completely smooth (to incorporate the dates).

10. 10

    Place the crispy cauliflower bites in a large bowl, pour the orange sauce over them, and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately as an appetizer.

Notes

Using dates instead of refined sugar provides a more complex sweetness and keeps the recipe whole-food based. Ensure the air fryer is not overcrowded to maintain the crispiness of the batter.

Nutrition per serving

• appetizer
• vegan
• vegetarian
• air-fryer
• healthy
• dairy-free
• orange-sauce