Description
This Kung Pao Cauliflower has a great balance of sweet, salty, spicy with a touch of tang.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons shaoxing cooking wine or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons thin dark soy sauce (see notes)
- 1 tablespoon chinese black vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets (about 4 to 5 cups)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose or gluten-free flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- neutral oil, for frying, plus more for cooking
- 4 dried chiles, finely chopped, seeds removed
- 4 slices ginger
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup toasted cashews or other nuts
Directions
- The sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk the water and cornstarch until smooth. Add the soy sauce, cooking wine, dark soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar and whisk to combine.
- Cauliflower and assembly: Rinse the cauliflower florets under cold water. Drain in a colander.
- In a large shallow bowl, whisk the flour, water, salt, and white pepper until well combined.
- Dredge the cauliflower in the batter; shake off any excess. Into a wok or Dutch oven, pour the oil until it comes about 2 inches up the sides; heat over medium-high heat until shimmering (or use an air fryer instead). Fry the cauliflower, turning occasionally, until golden brown.
- Transfer the fried florets to paper towels to absorb the excess oil (if you're using the fry method).
- Wipe out the pot and heat about 1 tablespoon of oil over low heat. Cook the chiles and ginger, stirring frequently, for about 2 minutes, until fragrant, Add the garlic and continue to cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the bell pepper and onion and continue to cook, stirring, until softened, about 3 minutes more.
- Whisk the sauce again (the cornstarch may have set at the bottom of the bowl) and pour into the bell pepper mixture. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, 3 to 5 minutes, until the sauce is slightly reduced and thickened.
- Add the cauliflower and quickly toss to coat the florets with the sauce. Taste and season accordingly. Fold in the cashews and give it a quick toss. Serve warm and enjoy!