Sweet Chili Cauliflower Bites

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2 In a bowl, toss cauliflower florets with cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. 3 In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each floret into the egg, then coat with flour. Shake off excess.
4. 4 Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry floret batches until golden, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
5. 5 Place fried florets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
6. 6 Whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
7. 7 Remove cauliflower from oven and toss with the sauce until evenly coated.
8. 8 Serve warm and enjoy!

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large skillet
• Whisk

Variations

• Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra texture.
• For a kick, toss with chopped fresh jalapeños before serving.

Substitutions

• Substitute cornstarch with tapioca starch for a gluten-free option.
• Use almond flour for a nutty flavor and gluten-free alternative.

Pairings

• Serve alongside spring rolls or Asian-inspired dumplings.
• Complement with a refreshing Thai iced tea.

Nutrition

Tips

• For a crispier texture, ensure your cauliflower florets are thoroughly dry before coating.
• If you prefer not to fry, bake the florets directly after coating for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a 350°F oven until crispy.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with toothpicks for easy munching at parties.
• Pair with a cooling cucumber salad for balance.

FAQ