Go Back
In recent years, the world has witnessed a remarkable shift towards healthier eating habits, with plant-based dishes gaining immense popularity. As consumers become more health-conscious, they are increasingly seeking alternatives to traditional snacks that are not only nutritious but also delicious. Enter Sweet & Spicy Glazed Cauliflower Nuggets—an enticing fusion of flavors and textures that promises to satisfy cravings without compromising on health. These nuggets feature a crispy exterior, a tender interior, and a glaze that perfectly balances sweetness and spiciness, making them a fantastic snack or side dish for any occasion.

Sweet & Spicy Glazed Cauliflower Nuggets

Discover the delicious world of Sweet & Spicy Glazed Cauliflower Nuggets, a perfect plant-based snack for healthy eating enthusiasts! These versatile nuggets feature a crispy coating and a flavorful glaze that balances sweet and spicy notes, making them irresistible to both vegetarians and meat-lovers. Packed with vitamins and low in calories, they are not only tasty but also nutritious. Enjoy them as a snack, side dish, or incorporate them into your meals for a delightful culinary experience!

Ingredients
  

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)

1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sweet & Spicy Glaze:

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon rice vinegar

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon grated ginger

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) if you prefer baking instead of frying.

    Prepare the Cauliflower: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cauliflower florets with flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until the florets are evenly coated.

      Batter and Breading: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and any remaining spice mix from the flour. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing excess to drip off. Then coat each floret with breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.

        Frying Method:

          - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the cauliflower nuggets in batches. Fry until golden brown and crispy (about 4-5 minutes per side).

            - Alternatively, for baking, place the breaded cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden and crispy.

              Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey or maple syrup, soy sauce, Sriracha, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Stir and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

                Toss the Nuggets: Once the cauliflower is cooked, place it in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the sweet and spicy glaze over the nuggets while they’re still hot. Toss gently until all florets are well-coated.

                  Serve and Garnish: Transfer the glazed cauliflower nuggets to a serving platter. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish. Enjoy while hot!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 40 min | 4 servings