Korean Fried Cauliflower

Korean Fried Cauliflower is a delightful twist on the classic Korean Fried Chicken. This recipe transforms ordinary cauliflower into an extraordinary dish with its crispy exterior and sweet, spicy gochujang sauce. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or as a satisfying snack, Korean Fried Cauliflower is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of gochujang and honey creates a sweet and spicy sauce that perfectly complements the crispy cauliflower.
• Crispy Texture: The unique wet batter ensures a shatteringly crispy coating that makes every bite irresistible.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, anyone can make this dish without any culinary expertise.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course for a vegetarian meal.
• Healthy Twist: Packed with vegetables, this recipe provides a healthier alternative to traditional fried foods without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you will need to make Korean Fried Cauliflower.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep frying pot or heavy-bottomed pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer
• Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep frying pot or heavy-bottomed pan: Essential for achieving the right temperature for frying, ensuring crispy results.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to easily combine ingredients for the batter without spills.
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer: Perfect for safely removing fried cauliflower from hot oil while letting excess oil drip off.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower

• 1 head cauliflower (about 2 pounds, cut to bite-sized pieces)
• 1 quart neutral oil for frying (vegetable, peanut, avocado oil)

For the Batter

• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon white pepper (10g)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 1/2 cup ice cold soda water (adjust to achieve a batter slightly looser than pancake batter)

For the Sauce

• ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium)
• 3 tablespoons sugar (39g)
• 2 tablespoons honey (30ml)
• 2 tablespoons gochujang (30ml)
• ½ tablespoon gochugaru
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (15ml)
• ¼ cup water

How to Make Korean Fried Cauliflower

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets and set them on a tray. This step ensures even cooking and easy handling during the frying process.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine all the wet batter ingredients. Use a whisk or fork to mix until smooth. The consistency should be slightly looser than pancake batter.

Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower

Add the cauliflower pieces into the batter. Mix well with your hands until each piece is fully coated in batter.

Step 4: Fry the Cauliflower

Working one piece at a time, carefully take each cauliflower piece and let excess batter drip off before adding it to the hot oil. Fry at 375°F for 5-6 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown. Maintain an oil temperature of at least 350°F; fry in smaller batches if necessary. Drain on a wire rack to remove excess oil and season with salt.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

In a small saucepan, mix together all sauce ingredients over medium heat. Stir until bubbling and thickened. Once ready, brush this delicious sauce onto your fried cauliflower and finish by garnishing with scallions and sesame seeds. Enjoy!

How to Serve Korean Fried Cauliflower

Korean Fried Cauliflower is a delightful dish that can elevate any meal. Its crispy texture and bold flavors make it a versatile option for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the cauliflower bites with a side of dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or sweet chili sauce for added flavor.

With Rice

• Pair the fried cauliflower with steamed jasmine or brown rice for a satisfying meal that balances the crunchiness with soft, fluffy rice.

On Tacos

• Use Korean Fried Cauliflower as a filling in soft corn tortillas, topped with fresh cilantro and lime for a fusion twist on traditional tacos.

As a Salad Topper

• Add these crispy cauliflower pieces on top of mixed greens or coleslaw. Drizzle with sesame dressing to complement the flavors.

On a Snack Platter

• Include Korean Fried Cauliflower in a snack platter alongside other vegetables, hummus, and dips for an exciting party appetizer.

With Beer or Soju

• Enjoy the crispy bites with your favorite beer or soju, making it perfect for casual gatherings or game nights.

How to Perfect Korean Fried Cauliflower

To achieve the ultimate Korean Fried Cauliflower, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure each bite is perfectly crispy and flavorful.

• Use cold soda water: The colder the liquid, the crispier the batter will be when fried.

• Fry in small batches: This helps maintain oil temperature and ensures even cooking for every piece of cauliflower.

• Adjust batter consistency: Aim for a texture slightly looser than pancake batter for optimal coating.

• Drain properly: Allow excess oil to drip off on a wire rack after frying to keep the cauliflower from becoming soggy.

• Season immediately: Sprinkle salt right after frying to help it adhere better and enhance flavor.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add extra spices like cayenne or paprika to the batter for an extra kick!

Best Side Dishes for Korean Fried Cauliflower

Korean Fried Cauliflower pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here’s a list of options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Kimchi: This tangy fermented vegetable dish adds probiotic benefits and extra flavor to your meal.

2. Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side that provides balance without overshadowing the main dish.

3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in sesame oil offers a crunchy contrast to the fried cauliflower.

4. Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice serves as an excellent base that absorbs any sauces from your main dish while providing mild flavor.

5. Spicy Noodles: Tossed in gochujang sauce, spicy noodles can elevate your meal’s heat level and serve as a hearty complement.

6. Egg Fried Rice: This savory dish adds protein and richness, making it a fulfilling pairing with your crispy cauliflower.

7. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can provide comforting warmth alongside your crunchy dish while enhancing umami flavors.

8. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely against the spicy gochujang sauce of the cauliflower.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Korean Fried Cauliflower can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the batter consistency check – Ensure your wet batter is looser than pancake batter. If it’s too thick, it won’t coat the cauliflower evenly.
• Overcrowding the frying pan – Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy cauliflower. Fry in small batches for best results.
• Neglecting to season after frying – Always season your fried cauliflower right after it comes out of the oil. This ensures the salt sticks and enhances flavor.
• Ignoring oil temperature – Make sure your oil is at 375°F before adding cauliflower. Low temperatures lead to greasy, unappetizing results.
• Not adjusting sauce ingredients – Feel free to tweak the gochujang and sugar levels in your sauce to suit your taste. Balance is key!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Korean Fried Cauliflower

• Allow cauliflower to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 1 month.

Reheating Korean Fried Cauliflower

• Oven – Preheat to 400°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave – Heat on high for about 1-2 minutes, but this may make it less crispy.
• Stovetop – Heat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little oil if needed for crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Korean Fried Cauliflower that can help you get the most from this recipe.

Can I use other vegetables instead of cauliflower?

Yes, you can experiment with broccoli or Brussels sprouts! Just adjust cooking times as needed.

What can I serve with Korean Fried Cauliflower?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or as part of a larger Korean feast.

How spicy is Korean Fried Cauliflower?

The spice level depends on how much gochujang you add. You can adjust it according to your preference!

Can I make Korean Fried Cauliflower gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free.

Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

To make it vegan, replace honey with maple syrup and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.

Final Thoughts

Korean Fried Cauliflower is not just a side dish; it’s a versatile treat that can impress at any gathering. The combination of crispy texture and bold flavors makes this recipe irresistible. Feel free to customize it by adding more spices or adjusting the sweetness to suit your palate!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Korean Fried Cauliflower

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Korean Fried Cauliflower is a delightful and healthier alternative to the beloved Korean Fried Chicken. This recipe features crispy cauliflower florets enveloped in a flavorful batter and drizzled with a sweet-spicy gochujang sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for any occasion, from parties to family dinners, this dish offers an exciting twist that appeals to vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. With its irresistible crunch and vibrant flavors, Korean Fried Cauliflower is sure to be a hit at your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 head cauliflower (about 2 pounds)
• 1 quart neutral oil for frying
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon white pepper (10g)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 1/2 cup ice cold soda water
• ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium)
• 3 tablespoons sugar (39g)
• 2 tablespoons honey (30ml)
• 2 tablespoons gochujang (30ml)
• ½ tablespoon gochugaru
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (15ml)
• ¼ cup water

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Instructions

1. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, white pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and ice-cold soda water until smooth.
3. Coat each cauliflower piece in the batter thoroughly.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pot to 375°F. Fry the cauliflower in small batches for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a wire rack.
5. For the sauce, mix soy sauce, sugar, honey, gochujang, gochugaru, rice vinegar, and water in a saucepan over medium heat until bubbling and thickened.
6. Brush sauce onto fried cauliflower and serve hot.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Appetizer/Side
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5 pieces (150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg