Glazed Orange Cauliflower: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Glazed Orange Cauliflower is a captivating dish that marries the crispy texture of battered cauliflower florets with a vibrant, tangy orange glaze. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply preparing a weeknight meal, this visually appealing dish is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower:

  • 2 small heads of cauliflower (approximately 3 cups of florets)
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil is recommended)

For the Batter:

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup water

For the Breading:

  • 1 1/2 cups bread crumbs (panko for extra crunch)
  • 1/2 cup desiccated coconut (optional; can substitute with additional bread crumbs)

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (from about 2 navel oranges)
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey as a non-ww
  • option)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar (or white vinegar)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 4 tablespoons water (for slurry)

Garnish:

  • Extra orange slices
  • Sesame seeds

Equipment Needed

To prepare this delectable dish, you will need:

  • Knife and cutting board
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Frying pan or deep fryer
  • Paper towels or a strainer
  • Saucepan
  • Serving dish

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Cauliflower

Begin by thoroughly washing the cauliflower under cool running water. Cut each head into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are uniform in size to promote even cooking. Pat the florets dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial, as it helps the batter adhere better to the cauliflower.

Step 2: Making the Batter

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Gradually whisk in the water until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. The batter should have a thick consistency, allowing it to coat the cauliflower evenly without dripping excessively. Adjust the water quantity slightly if necessary to achieve the desired texture.

Step 3: Coating the Cauliflower

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess batter to prevent clumping. For efficiency, work in small batches to avoid the florets sticking together.

Step 4: Breading the Cauliflower

In a separate bowl, mix the bread crumbs with the desiccated coconut. The coconut adds a subtle sweetness and crunch to the coating. If you prefer, you can substitute additional bread crumbs for the coconut. Gently roll each battered cauliflower piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating. Set the breaded florets aside on a plate.

Step 5: Frying the Cauliflower

Heat oil in a large frying pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface. Fry the cauliflower florets in batches, turning them occasionally for an even golden-brown color. This process should take about 5-7 minutes per batch. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy cauliflower.

Step 6: Draining and Cooling

Once the florets are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly while you prepare the glaze.

Step 7: Preparing the Orange Glaze

In a saucepan, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, maple syrup, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and water. Stir the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer. This combination creates a balanced flavor profile, with the sweetness of the orange juice and maple syrup complementing the saltiness of the soy sauce and the acidity of the vinegar.

Step 8: Thickening the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Gradually add the slurry to the simmering sauce, stirring constantly. Continue cooking until the glaze thickens to a glossy, syrupy consistency, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as the glaze can become too thick.

Step 9: Coating the Cauliflower

Add the fried cauliflower florets to the saucepan with the glaze. Gently toss the florets in the glaze, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. The hot glaze will adhere to the crispy coating, creating a beautiful, shiny finish.

Step 10: Garnishing and Serving

Transfer the glazed cauliflower to a serving dish. Garnish with extra orange slices and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. The orange slices add a burst of fresh citrus flavor, while the sesame seeds provide a slight crunch and nutty undertone.

Tips and Variations

Baking Option

For a healthier alternative, consider baking the breaded cauliflower instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded florets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden and crispy. This method reduces the overall fat content without sacrificing flavor.

Spice It Up

If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze. This addition complements the sweetness of the glaze and adds depth to the overall flavor profile.

Coconut-Free

If you prefer a more neutral taste, feel free to omit the desiccated coconut from the breading mixture and use all bread crumbs instead. This variation will still provide a satisfying crunch.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 39g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 16g

Weight Watchers Points

  • SmartPoints: 7
  • Freestyle Points: 7
  • PointsPlus: 6

(Note: Points may vary based on ingredient brands and preparation methods.)

Serving Suggestions

Glazed Orange Cauliflower pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Serve it over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a complete meal. For a lighter option, complement it with a simple green salad dressed in a citrus vinaigrette. This dish also works well as an appetizer or side dish at a larger gathering, providing a flavorful contrast to more savory offerings.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover Glazed Orange Cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, place the cauliflower on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the coating soggy.

Conclusion

Glazed Orange Cauliflower is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or side dish. Its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout on any table. Whether you follow the recipe as is or customize it with your own twists, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Enjoy this delightful fusion dish as a flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire, and watch as it becomes a favorite among family and friends.

By incorporating these detailed steps and useful tips, you can transform this simple recipe into a culinary masterpiece that showcases the deliciousness of cauliflower while maintaining a health-conscious approach. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, Glazed Orange Cauliflower is an exciting dish to add to your collection!