Go Back
+ servings
Crunchy Gochujang Cauliflower

Irresistible Crunchy Gochujang Cauliflower for Flavor Lovers

This Crunchy Gochujang Cauliflower is a flavor-packed delight with a crispy texture, combining spicy gochujang and sweet maple syrup, perfect for any meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: APPETIZERS
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Cauliflower
  • 1 head cauliflower a fresh, crispy base for the dish.
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable base enhances the overall flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons plant milk helps bind the coatings for a crispy finish.
Coating
  • 2.5 cups corn starch creates the irresistible crunch.
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder adds aromatic depth to the coating.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper brings a touch of warmth.
Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon regular soy sauce contributes savory umami notes.
  • 1 tablespoon light soy sauce offers a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vegetarian oyster sauce adds a rich, earthy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon mustard gives a subtle tang to the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon gochujang the star ingredient that provides heat and depth.
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup balances the spiciness with a touch of sweetness.
Cooking
  • 4 cups vegetable oil for frying essential for that golden, crispy texture.
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil enriches the sautéed vegetables.
Vegetables
  • 0.25 cup onion chopped, adds sweetness and depth.
  • 5-6 cloves garlic minced, infuses a beautiful aroma.
  • 2 leaves red cabbage chopped, gives color and crunch.
  • 1 whole carrot chopped into very small pieces, adds natural sweetness and bright color.
  • 2 whole scallions chopped, brings a fresh, mild onion flavor.
Finish
  • 0.33 cup vegetable broth helps bring the sauce together.
  • 0.5 tablespoon sesame oil offers a nutty richness to finish the dish.
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for a delightful crunchy topping that adds visual appeal.

Equipment

  • Large Bowl
  • cast iron pan
  • deep fryer
  • whisk

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by placing your cauliflower chunks into a large bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of the vegetable base and the plant milk, mixing everything thoroughly. Set it aside for a moment to soak up those flavors.
  2. In another large bowl, combine 1 cup of corn starch, ½ tablespoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients and set aside for use later.
  3. Prepare your sauce by whisking together 1 teaspoon of the vegetable base, regular soy sauce, light soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, mustard, gochujang, maple syrup, and ½ tablespoon of corn starch. This will create a smooth, flavorful blend.
  4. In a large cast iron pan or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil until it reaches 350°F. This temperature is essential for achieving that perfect golden brown crunch.
Cooking
  1. Take your cauliflower and dredge it in the corn starch and garlic powder mixture. Ensure each piece is evenly coated—that’s key for crunch!
  2. Carefully fry the coated cauliflower in the hot oil, working in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until they are beautifully browned and crispy. Once done, drain them on a cooling rack.
  3. For an extra crunch, after the first fry, give your cauliflower a second fry in the hot oil—this little tip will make a noticeable difference!
  4. In a large pan over medium-high heat, add the extra virgin olive oil. Once hot, toss in the garlic, onion, carrot, cabbage, and scallions. Sauté everything together until the onion turns translucent, around 2 minutes.
  5. Add the vegetable broth to the pan, cooking for another 30 seconds. Then, stir in your prepared sauce and cook for about 1 minute, letting it thicken beautifully.
  6. Turn off the heat and gently mix the fried cauliflower into the sauce, ensuring they are well-coated. Drizzle with sesame oil and finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that final touch. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Optional: Serve with a side of steamed rice for a complete meal. Ensure your cauliflower is cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!