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Glazed Orange Cauliflower

Glazed Orange Cauliflower

Glazed Orange Cauliflower features crispy, tender cauliflower florets coated in a bright, tangy-sweet orange glaze, creating a perfect balance of zesty citrus and caramelized sweetness. This fast, simple, and naturally vegan recipe works well as an appetizer, side dish, or main, and pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or on its own.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh cauliflower florets
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Wash and chop the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, ensuring similar sizes for even cooking. Pat them dry thoroughly to help achieve a crispier texture when cooked.
  2. Cook the Cauliflower: Roast the florets in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes until golden and tender, or pan-fry in a hot skillet with oil until caramelized edges form. The cauliflower should be cooked through yet still hold a slight bite.
  3. Make the Orange Glaze: While cooking the cauliflower, whisk together fresh orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, honey or maple syrup, and cornstarch dissolved in a small amount of water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a glossy glaze.
  4. Combine and Coat: Toss the cooked cauliflower into the warm orange glaze. Use a spatula to evenly coat each floret, allowing the sauce to cling beautifully.
  5. Final Touches: Garnish with chili flakes, toasted sesame seeds, or fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley as desired. Serve immediately while warm for optimal flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh orange juice for vibrant flavor; bottled juice lacks brightness.
  • Do not overdry cauliflower; a little moisture helps the glaze stick better.
  • Taste the glaze before tossing cauliflower and adjust sweetness or saltiness as desired.
  • Cook cauliflower on high heat to develop golden brown, crispy edges.
  • Serve immediately to keep glaze glossy and cauliflower crisp.

Nutrition

Keywords: glazed orange cauliflower, vegan cauliflower recipe, orange glaze, healthy appetizer, vegan side dish, gluten-free, quick vegan recipe