Crispy General Tso’s Cauliflower

Looking for a mouthwatering meal that’s both satisfying and vegan-friendly? Our recipe for Crispy General Tso’s Cauliflower might just be your new weeknight favorite. This dish transforms simple cauliflower into a tantalizing treat, coated in crunchy breadcrumbs and tossed in a bold General Tso’s sauce. It’s perfect for those who love a good zing in their meal. Follow these steps to recreate this delicious dish at home.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 large cauliflower head, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 eggs (use a vegan substitute like flax eggs for a vegan version)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup flour
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper powder, a sprinkle
• 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp minced garlic (or fresh chopped)
• 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s General Tso’s sauce
• 1 1/4 cups water + 2 tbsp for slurry
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 2 1/2 tsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
• 2 1/2 tsp sriracha sauce (optional)
• 1 tbsp chopped scallions/spring onions, for garnishing
• Sesame seeds, a sprinkle, for garnishing

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with foil for easy cleanup.
   • Prepare three separate bowls for your coating ingredients: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, another with breadcrumbs, and a third with whisked eggs (or your chosen vegan substitute).
2. Coating:
   • Take each cauliflower piece and coat it first in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s lightly dusted.
   • Dip it into the egg to cover it completely.
   • Finally, roll the cauliflower in breadcrumbs until well coated. Place each piece on your prepared baking tray.
3. Baking:
   • Bake the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pieces are golden and crispy. This method ensures your cauliflower gets a delicious crunch without deep frying.
4. Making the Sauce:
   • While the cauliflower bakes, heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the garlic just until fragrant, about 10-15 seconds.
   • Add the General Tso’s sauce along with the water and bring to a simmer.
   • If you like a bit of extra kick, stir in the optional sriracha and balsamic vinegar to balance out the sweetness.
   • Mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp of water to create a slurry, add it to the sauce to thicken it, and simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
5. Combining:
   • Once the cauliflower is baked and crispy, toss it in the sauce until each piece is well coated.
6. Serving:
   • Serve your Crispy General Tso’s Cauliflower garnished with chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven.

Nutritional Info:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Calories: 310 per serving
• Servings: 4

This Crispy General Tso’s Cauliflower is a fabulous way to enjoy a classic flavor with a vegetarian twist. Whether you’re a full-time vegan or just looking to cut down on meat, this dish offers a delicious alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste. Enjoy crafting this savory dish that’s sure to impress with its delightful texture and explosive flavor!