While waiting for my takeout to arrive, I couldn’t shake the craving for something crispy and citrusy. That’s when it hit me—I could recreate that delightful glaze at home! This Crispy Vegan Glazed Orange Cauliflower “Chicken” brings all the magic of those beloved fast-casual dishes into my kitchen, but with a wholesome twist. Not only is this recipe a quick prep solution for your weeknight dinners, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent without the guilt. Whether you choose to fry, bake, or air-fry, the crispy cauliflower bites enveloped in a sweet and tangy glaze are sure to impress everyone at the table. Are you ready to take your taste buds on a delightful ride? Let’s dive in!
Why Try Vegan Orange Cauliflower “Chicken”?
Crispy Delight: Each bite of this cauliflower “chicken” offers an irresistible crunch, satisfying your craving for something crispy without the guilt of traditional fried foods.
Sweet and Tangy: The vibrant orange glaze infuses flavor, combining the freshness of orange juice and zest with a hint of maple sweetness that perfectly balances the dish.
Versatile Cooking Options: Whether you fry for a golden finish, bake for a lighter alternative, or air-fry to cut down on oil, this recipe adapts to your cooking style.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family dinners or impressing friends at gatherings, this dish is sure to win over even the most devoted meat lovers with its flavorful twist on a classic favorite.
Quick Prep: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, letting you whip up a delicious vegan meal without hassle.
Glazed Orange Cauliflower “Chicken” Ingredients
For the Cauliflower
• Cauliflower – Use 2 small heads (approximately 650g) for about 3 cups of florets, ensuring a generous portion for everyone.
For the Batter
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and helps the batter stick to the cauliflower.
• Corn Starch – Essential for achieving a light, crispy texture that makes this dish stand out.
• Baking Powder – Adds fluffiness, helping the batter puff up during cooking.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish, bringing out the best in all ingredients.
• Room Temp Water – Hydrates the dry ingredients for smooth batter consistency.
For the Breading
• Breadcrumbs – These create a delightful crunch; feel free to substitute with desiccated coconut for added flavor.
• Desiccated Coconut – Optional, but adds a unique texture and a hint of tropical taste.
For the Glaze
• Fresh Orange Juice – The key flavor component; use juice from 2 navel oranges for the best taste.
• Orange Zest – Infuses aromatic citrus flavor, making the glaze truly refreshing.
• Maple Syrup – Sweetener that balances the dish; adjust to your taste preference.
• Soy Sauce – Introduces umami depth and richness to the orange glaze.
• Rice Vinegar – Balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity for a rounded flavor profile.
• Room Temp Water – Helps dilute the glaze for a perfectly pourable consistency.
For Thickening
• Cornstarch Slurry – A mixture of cornstarch and water crucial for thickening the glaze to perfection.
For Cooking and Serving
• Neutral Oil – Use for frying; or choose to bake or air-fry for a healthier option.
• Extra Orange Slices & Sesame Seeds – Perfect garnishes to elevate your dish and add a colorful touch; serve warm over steamed rice for a complete meal.
With all these ingredients in hand, you’re just a few steps away from creating your very own glazed orange cauliflower “chicken.” Get ready for a culinary experience that will delight everyone at your table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Glazed Orange Cauliflower “Chicken”
Step 1: Make Cornstarch Slurry
In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir until fully dissolved and set it aside. This cornstarch slurry will serve as a thickening agent for the luscious glaze that envelops the crispy cauliflower later on.
Step 2: Prepare Glaze
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, orange zest, maple syrup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of room temperature water. The mixture should be well-combined and aromatic, creating a sweet and tangy glaze that will complement the crispy vegan orange cauliflower “chicken.”
Step 3: Prepare Batter
In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add ¾ cup of room temperature water while whisking to form a smooth batter that should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower florets without drizzling off too quickly.
Step 4: Make Breadcrumb Mix
In another bowl, combine 1 cup of breadcrumbs with ½ cup of desiccated coconut, if using. This breadcrumb mixture will add a delightful crunch to the cauliflower pieces, so stir well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Coat Cauliflower
Take each cauliflower floret and dip it into the prepared batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Next, transfer the battered cauliflower to the breadcrumb mix and firmly press to ensure a good coating. Repeat this step until all florets are coated and ready for cooking.
Step 6: Cook Cauliflower
In a large skillet, heat approximately 1 cup of neutral oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the coated cauliflower pieces. Fry for about 2–3 minutes per side, until they achieve a golden-brown color and crispy texture. Alternatively, bake at 350°F for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Step 7: Make Glaze
After cooking the cauliflower, remove excess oil from the skillet and return it to medium heat. Add the prepared glaze mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally until the glaze is heated through; then slowly stir in the cornstarch slurry from Step 1, cooking for an additional minute or two until the glaze thickens slightly.
Step 8: Combine
Gently toss the cooked cauliflower in the thickened glaze, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the vibrant, flavorful mixture. Serve the glazed orange cauliflower “chicken” warm, garnished with sesame seeds and fresh orange slices, ideally over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a delightful meal.
Storage Tips for Glazed Orange Cauliflower “Chicken”
Room Temperature: Enjoy the cauliflower while fresh and warm; however, it can sit out for about 2 hours if necessary before needing to be refrigerated.
Fridge: Store leftover cauliflower without glaze in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but for optimal crunch—keep it separate from the glaze.
Freezer: If you want to save it longer, freeze the cooked, unglazed cauliflower in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Reheating: To restore its crispy texture, reheat the cauliflower in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warm and crunchy again. Enjoy your flavorful glazed orange cauliflower “chicken”!
What to Serve with Crispy Vegan Orange Cauliflower ‘Chicken’?
Bring life to your dinner table with vibrant and delightful combinations that elevate this dish to new heights.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the luscious orange glaze, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
- Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: These add a crunchy texture and a fresh crunch, enhancing the Asian-inspired theme of your meal.
- Garlic Broccolini: Tender yet crisp, this vegetable side brings a touch of green and a hint of garlic, complementing the sweetness of the cauliflower beautifully.
- Sesame Noodles: Soft, savory noodles drizzled with a sesame sauce pair perfectly, creating a comforting dish that craves to be enjoyed together.
- Miso Soup: Light and flavorful, this warm broth offers a gentle umami contrast that works well with the sweet and tangy cauliflower.
- Coconut Milk Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and luxurious, these mashed potatoes add a delightful richness that rounds out the meal without overwhelming the palate.
- Fresh Orange Salad: Juicy, citrusy slices combined with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette will refresh the palate between bites of the crispy cauliflower.
- Chilled Green Tea: This soothing drink adds an earthy note that balances and cools the spiciness, creating a perfect sip with every bite.
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Finish off with this decadent dessert that provides a creamy counterpart to your meal, while still being plant-based.
Variations for Glazed Orange Cauliflower “Chicken”
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make this recipe your own!
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Tofu Swap: Replace cauliflower with cubed tofu for a protein-packed version; press and marinate the tofu for extra flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for a gluten-sensitive diet, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
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Sweetener Twist: Swap maple syrup for agave syrup for a lower glycemic index option without sacrificing sweetness.
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Extra Crispiness: For an even crunchier texture, add crushed cornflakes to the breadcrumb mix; this fun addition packs a flavorful punch!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in some chili powder or red pepper flakes into the batter to heat things up—perfect for spice lovers seeking a kick!
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Coconut Flavor: If you adore coconut, substitute shredded coconut for breadcrumbs for added tropical flavor and texture; it’s a wonderful surprise in every bite.
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Air-Fried Option: Experiment with air-frying the coated cauliflower at 375°F for about 15–20 minutes, tossing halfway; enjoy a healthier, crispy treat!
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Zesty Herb Boost: Enhance the glaze with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an aromatic twist that adds freshness to this tangy dish.
Each variation is designed to elevate your experience and invite you to create a customized dish that caters to your taste buds—perhaps try pairing it with fluffy jasmine rice or crispy stir-fried veggies for a complete meal! And if you’re looking for more ways to tweak your kitchen creations, why not check out our guide on Cooking with Tofu or explore some delightful Gluten-Free Baking options? Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Glazed Orange Cauliflower “Chicken” bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the cauliflower florets and coat them in the batter and breadcrumb mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their crispy texture. The glaze can also be made up to 3 days ahead; just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy the dish, fry or bake the coated cauliflower as per the recipe, toss it in the reheated glaze, and you’ll have a delightful meal that’s just as delicious and fresh!
Expert Tips for Glazed Orange Cauliflower “Chicken”
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Coat Smartly: Use one hand for wet and the other for dry ingredients when coating the cauliflower. This prevents a sticky mess and ensures even coverage.
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Sweetness Balance: Adjust the amount of maple syrup in your glaze based on the sweetness of your oranges. Taste as you go for the best flavor!
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Oil Temperature Check: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying. Drop a breadcrumb in; if it bubbles immediately, you’re good to go. This helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
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Crispy Alternatives: If frying isn’t your thing, try baking or air-frying! Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway for evenly crispy cauliflower bites.
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Storage Tip: To keep leftovers crisp, store the cauliflower without glaze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for the best results. Enjoy your glazed orange cauliflower “chicken” even the next day!
Glazed Orange Cauliflower “Chicken” Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe cauliflower?
For the best results, choose heads of cauliflower that are firm and compact with tightly packed florets. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes, as these indicate age or spoilage. Fresh cauliflower should have a creamy white color, with vibrant green leaves still attached if possible.
What is the best way to store leftover glazed orange cauliflower?
To maintain its crispiness, store leftover cauliflower without glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have glazed pieces, they can be stored for the same duration, but they may lose some of their crunch. Reheat the unglazed cauliflower in the oven, ideally at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, to restore its crispy texture.
Can I freeze glazed orange cauliflower?
Absolutely! To freeze, first let the cooked cauliflower cool completely. Then, place the unglazed pieces in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed and crispy.
What if my batter does not stick well to the cauliflower?
If you’re having trouble with the batter adhering, try ensuring that your cauliflower florets are dry before dipping them in the batter. Also, make sure your batter is thick enough; you can add a little more cornstarch or flour to achieve better coating. Lastly, pressing the breadcrumbs firmly onto the cauliflower after dipping in the batter will help create a better crust.
Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Yes! You can easily make this Glazed Orange Cauliflower “Chicken” gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just ensure all other ingredients, like soy sauce, are also gluten-free. Enjoy without worry!
Can my pets have cauliflower?
Yes, cauliflower is generally safe for pets in moderation. However, it should be cooked or steamed to help with digestibility, and avoid giving them the sauce, which may contain ingredients that aren’t safe for them. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.
Crispy Glazed Orange Cauliflower Chicken That Amazes Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Stir until fully dissolved and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, orange zest, maple syrup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of room temperature water until well-combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add ¾ cup of room temperature water while whisking to form a smooth batter.
- In another bowl, combine 1 cup of breadcrumbs with ½ cup of desiccated coconut, if using.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, then transfer to the breadcrumb mix and press to coat. Repeat until all florets are coated.
- Heat approximately 1 cup of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry coated cauliflower for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove excess oil from the skillet, add the glaze mixture, and bring to a gentle simmer. Slowly stir in the cornstarch slurry, cooking until the glaze thickens.
- Toss the cooked cauliflower in the thickened glaze, ensuring each piece is coated. Serve warm, garnished with sesame seeds and orange slices.