Baked Vegan Orange Cauliflower Recipe
Baked Vegan Orange Cauliflower is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional orange chicken. The crispy, golden cauliflower is coated in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy orange sauce, making for a flavorful, plant-based dish that satisfies those cravings for something savory and saucy. This dish can be served on its own as a main course or as a side to complement other meals. It’s a perfect dish for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting, vegan twist on a Chinese-American classic.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
- Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the cauliflower from sticking. - Cut the cauliflower:
Wash the cauliflower and remove the leaves. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Try to keep them roughly the same size so they cook evenly. - Make the batter:
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the dry ingredients are well combined. - Add the liquid:
Slowly add the plant milk to the dry mixture, whisking as you go, to create a smooth batter. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower, but not so thick that it’s gloppy. If the batter is too thick, add a splash more plant milk. You want it to be smooth and pourable. - Coat the cauliflower:
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess batter and place the florets on the prepared baking sheet. If desired, drizzle a small amount of olive oil or melted coconut oil over the cauliflower for extra crispiness. - Bake the cauliflower:
Bake the cauliflower for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the florets are golden brown and crispy on the edges. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to ensure they don’t burn. The cauliflower should be tender inside and crispy on the outside.
Step 2: Prepare the Orange Sauce
- Combine the sauce ingredients:
In a small saucepan, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir the mixture over medium heat. - Simmer:
Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until the flavors meld together. - Thicken the sauce:
Mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Slowly add the cornstarch mixture to the sauce while stirring constantly. Continue simmering for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more orange juice or water to thin it out. - Finish the sauce:
Once the sauce is thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the sesame oil (if using) for extra flavor. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness, acidity, or spice level as needed. You can add more maple syrup for sweetness, vinegar for tang, or red pepper flakes for heat.
Step 3: Coat the Baked Cauliflower with Orange Sauce
- Toss the cauliflower:
Once the cauliflower is baked and crispy, remove it from the oven and place it in a large bowl. Pour the orange sauce over the cauliflower and gently toss it to coat each floret with the sauce. Be careful not to break the cauliflower florets while tossing. - Serve:
Transfer the sauced cauliflower to a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro leaves. For an extra citrusy kick, sprinkle a bit of orange zest or add orange wedges on the side. - Optional:
If you like, you can serve the orange cauliflower over a bed of steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Crispiness:
For even crispier cauliflower, ensure that the florets are not overcrowded on the baking sheet. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam rather than crisp up. You can bake them in batches if necessary. - Batter Consistency:
If your batter is too thick, the cauliflower won’t get as crispy. If it’s too thin, the coating won’t stick properly. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower, but still thin enough to drip off easily. - Flavor Adjustments:
The sweetness and tanginess of the orange sauce can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you prefer a sweeter dish, add more maple syrup. For a more tangy sauce, increase the vinegar or add a splash of lemon juice. - Make-Ahead:
You can prepare the orange sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also prepare the battered cauliflower in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. - Make It Spicy:
For a spicier version, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of chili paste to the orange sauce. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish for extra heat. - Gluten-Free:
For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and use tamari instead of soy sauce. - Air Fryer Option:
If you have an air fryer, you can air fry the battered cauliflower at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method can give you an even crispier result without the need for an oven.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cauliflower:
Cauliflower is a low-calorie vegetable packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. It’s a great source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, folate, and several minerals like potassium and manganese. - Orange Juice:
Fresh orange juice is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, which help support the immune system and protect against oxidative stress. - Maple Syrup:
Maple syrup provides natural sweetness and contains minerals like manganese and zinc, which contribute to overall health. - Ginger:
Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. It can help alleviate nausea and improve circulation. - Sesame Oil:
Sesame oil is high in healthy fats, particularly polyunsaturated fats. It’s a good source of antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Variations and Customizations
- Vegan Orange Cauliflower Stir-Fry:
Add more vegetables such as bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots to the cauliflower to create a colorful and nutritious stir-fry. Simply sauté the vegetables in a pan before tossing them with the baked cauliflower and orange sauce. - Vegan Orange Cauliflower Tacos:
For a fun twist, serve the orange cauliflower in soft corn tortillas with toppings like shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a drizzle of vegan sour cream or tahini. - Orange Cauliflower with Noodles:
Toss the baked orange cauliflower with cooked rice noodles or soba noodles to create a hearty dish. You can add a few extra veggies for added texture. - Extra Crispy Cauliflower:
If you want the cauliflower even crispier, after baking, you can broil it for 2-3 minutes to give the florets a golden finish.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Vegan Orange Cauliflower
This dish is wonderfully versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Here are some creative ideas:
1. Rice Options
- Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice: The fragrant rice perfectly complements the rich and tangy orange sauce, providing a great balance to the cauliflower’s crispy texture. The rice helps to absorb the sauce, making each bite flavorful.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve the orange cauliflower over cauliflower rice. It’s light and allows the cauliflower to remain the star of the dish.
- Brown Rice or Quinoa: For added fiber and a nutty taste, you can serve the orange cauliflower over brown rice or quinoa. Both options bring in additional nutrients, making the meal even more filling.
2. Vegetables and Greens
- Sautéed Greens: Pair the orange cauliflower with sautéed spinach, kale, or bok choy. A little garlic, sesame oil, and a dash of soy sauce will make these greens the perfect contrast to the sweet and tangy cauliflower.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted sweet potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers complement the flavors of the orange cauliflower. The caramelized edges of the roasted vegetables add a nice depth of flavor to your plate.
- Crispy Tofu: If you want to add another protein to the meal, try pairing the orange cauliflower with crispy tofu. The tofu can be baked or pan-fried and served alongside the cauliflower to create a more substantial dish.
3. Salads and Fresh Sides
- Asian-Inspired Salad: Serve the cauliflower with a fresh salad of mixed greens, shredded cabbage, carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers. Toss the salad with a sesame ginger dressing for a light, crunchy counterpoint to the warm, saucy cauliflower.
- Cucumber and Avocado Salad: A simple cucumber and avocado salad with a citrusy vinaigrette offers a refreshing bite to balance the richness of the orange sauce.
- Coleslaw: A tangy vegan coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a vegan mayo dressing can be a great side dish. The crunch of the slaw is a lovely contrast to the crispy cauliflower.
Pairing Ideas for Drinks
To complement the sweet and savory flavors of the baked vegan orange cauliflower, you can pair it with several refreshing beverages:
1. Citrus-Based Drinks
- Iced Green Tea: A refreshing iced green tea with a hint of lemon or lime works wonderfully with the tangy sauce.
- Lemonade or Limeade: The tartness of lemonade or limeade balances the sweetness of the orange sauce. You could also make a sparkling version for a bubbly refreshment.
- Citrus Mocktail: Create a mocktail with fresh orange juice, soda water, a splash of lime juice, and a few mint leaves for a light, zesty drink.
2. Non-Alcoholic Options
- Coconut Water: For a hydrating drink that’s light and subtly sweet, coconut water is a great option. It enhances the tropical vibe of the orange cauliflower without overpowering the dish.
- Ginger Lemon Fizz: A ginger-lemon soda or homemade ginger lemonade adds a spicy kick that pairs well with the dish’s flavors.
3. Alcoholic Pairings
- Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc has the acidity and freshness to cut through the richness of the sauce and enhance the citrusy notes.
- Riesling: A slightly sweet Riesling with fruity undertones will balance the tangy and sweet components of the orange sauce.
- Light Beer: A light lager or pilsner works as a great beer pairing for this dish. It won’t overpower the flavors and provides a refreshing, crisp contrast to the sweetness of the cauliflower.
Make it a Complete Meal
You can easily transform this Baked Vegan Orange Cauliflower into a full meal for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. Here are some ideas for creating a rounded, satisfying dish:
1. Vegan Buddha Bowl
Create a vibrant Buddha bowl by adding different layers of goodness. Start with a base of quinoa or rice, then layer with your baked orange cauliflower, a side of sautéed greens, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of tahini or a tangy vegan dressing. You can top it off with a few avocado slices, sesame seeds, or nuts for some extra crunch.
2. Wrap or Lettuce Wraps
For a fun twist, you can serve the orange cauliflower in wraps. Use a large tortilla or lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter lettuce) and fill them with the orange cauliflower, some shredded cabbage, sliced avocado, and a drizzle of sriracha or creamy dressing. These wraps make for an easy-to-eat, handheld meal.
3. Vegan Orange Cauliflower Stir-Fry
If you want to turn this into a stir-fry, simply toss the baked cauliflower with stir-fried vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and snap peas. Add a bit more orange sauce and stir everything together until heated through. Serve this over your choice of noodles or rice for a comforting, flavorful meal.
Freezing
- Cauliflower: You can freeze the baked cauliflower if you don’t plan on eating it right away. Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cauliflower to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, you can bake it straight from frozen at 400°F (205°C) for 20 minutes, or until crispy and heated through.
- Orange Sauce: The orange sauce can also be frozen. Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
- To reheat the cauliflower, the best method is to place it back in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to crisp it up again.
- If you need to microwave it, place the cauliflower on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Baked Vegan Orange Cauliflower
This Baked Vegan Orange Cauliflower recipe is a fantastic and delicious plant-based alternative to the popular orange chicken dish. It’s crispy, tangy, sweet, and full of bold flavors that everyone will love—whether they follow a vegan diet or not. By baking the cauliflower, you reduce the calories and oil content compared to traditional deep-frying, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.
This dish can be served as a main course, a side dish, or even as an appetizer. It’s perfect for meal prep, and it can be easily customized to fit your preferences. Enjoy it as is, or get creative with the toppings and sides for a complete meal.
This recipe has so much to offer—it’s flavorful, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. By baking the cauliflower instead of frying it, you get the crispy texture without the excess oil, making it a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice taste. The sweet and tangy orange sauce adds the perfect balance of flavors, and the dish is completely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking to enjoy a healthier, cruelty-free alternative to traditional dishes.
Whether you serve it as a main dish, a side, or as part of a larger meal, Baked Vegan Orange Cauliflower is sure to be a hit at any table. It’s easy to make, and with the flexibility to customize the recipe, you can adjust it to your taste and dietary needs. Perfect for meal prep, entertaining, or even as a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Baked Vegan Orange Cauliflower Recipe

Baked Vegan Orange Cauliflower is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional orange chicken. The crispy, golden cauliflower is coated in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy orange sauce, making for a flavorful, plant-based dish that satisfies those cravings for something savory and saucy. This dish can be served on its own as a main course or as a side to complement other meals. It's a perfect dish for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting, vegan twist on a Chinese-American classic.
Ingredients
- For the cauliflower:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
- 1/2 cup water or plant-based milk (unsweetened)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra crispiness)
- For the orange sauce:
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder) + 2 tablespoons water (to make a slurry)
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Garnish (optional):
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. - Prepare the Cauliflower:
In a large bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the water or plant-based milk, whisking until you have a smooth batter.
Dip the cauliflower florets into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated. Arrange the battered cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
If you want extra crispiness, lightly drizzle the cauliflower with olive oil. - Bake the Cauliflower:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy. - Make the Orange Sauce:
While the cauliflower bakes, prepare the orange sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, ginger, and chili flakes.
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the water to create a slurry. Once the sauce is simmering, slowly whisk the slurry into the sauce to thicken it. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is glossy and thick. - Toss the Cauliflower in Sauce:
Once the cauliflower is done baking, remove it from the oven.
Pour the orange sauce over the cauliflower and toss gently to coat. You can also drizzle the sauce over the top and serve if you prefer a more “saucy” presentation. - Serve:
Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve as a main dish or a side.
Notes
- Crispiness of Cauliflower:
For maximum crispiness, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet when baking the cauliflower. If necessary, bake in batches to ensure the florets cook evenly and crisp up properly.
You can also add a drizzle of olive oil or melted coconut oil to the batter to help with crispiness. - Orange Sauce:
Adjust the sweetness or acidity of the sauce to suit your taste. Add more maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter dish, or increase the vinegar for a more tangy kick.
If the sauce is too thick, add a little more orange juice or water to reach your desired consistency. - Gluten-Free Option:
To make the recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use tamari instead of soy sauce. - Customization:
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the orange sauce for a more colorful and nutritious dish.
If you like a bit of heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of chili paste to the sauce. - Serving Suggestions:
Serve the orange cauliflower over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa for a complete meal. You can also serve it with sautéed greens or a fresh side salad.
For a fun twist, consider using the orange cauliflower in wraps, bowls, or tacos.