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Healthy Better Than Takeout Kung Pao Cauliflower. recipe image

Better Than Takeout Kung Pao Cauliflower.

This Kung Pao Cauliflower is a must-try! Healthy, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes, it's the perfect takeout alternative.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large head cauliflower cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons canned full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce or Braggs Liquid Aminos
  • 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 2 tablespoons real maple syrup or honey
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame or peanut oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced or grated
  • 1 inch fresh ginger grated
  • 4 green onions chopped, plus more for serving
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes more or less to taste
  • 1 pinch black pepper
  • 1/4 cup salted peanuts chopped, plus more for serving
  • Steamed white or brown rice for serving

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Wok or large skillet
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Start by preheating your wok or skillet over medium heat. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets and toss with cornstarch in a large mixing bowl until evenly coated.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, soy sauce (or Braggs Liquid Aminos), hoisin sauce, maple syrup (or honey), and rice vinegar to create the sauce.
  3. Add the sesame or peanut oil to your preheated wok. Once hot, add the coated cauliflower florets and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until golden and softened.
  4. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green onions to the wok. Stir-fry for an additional minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour the prepared sauce over the cauliflower, add the crushed red pepper flakes and black pepper, and stir well to coat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Top with chopped salted peanuts and additional green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
  • To make it vegan, substitute honey with maple syrup.
  • For a nut-free version, omit peanuts and use sunflower seeds.