Spicy Sichuan Cauliflower Recipe: A Zesty Indo-Chinese Delight
If youโre craving something spicy, savory, and exciting to kick-start your tastebuds, then the Spicy Sichuan Cauliflower is a must-try! This Indo-Chinese fusion dish combines the best of both worlds, offering a medley of bold flavors with a healthy twist. The cauliflower florets, crisped to perfection with a light coating of cornflour, soak in the rich, tangy gravy made from an assortment of flavorful sauces, creating a dish thatโs as satisfying as it is mouthwatering.
What makes this version of the Sichuan Cauliflower healthier than the traditional one is the blanching of the cauliflower before shallow frying. This technique ensures that the cauliflower retains its crunch while cutting down on excess oil, allowing the dish to keep its full-bodied flavor but with fewer calories. Whether served as an appetizer with a side of tomato sauce and a dash of vinegar or paired with Chinese fried rice or noodles, this recipe will surely delight anyone who loves a flavorful, spicy meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cauliflower (gobi), florets | 1 cup |
| Onions, chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Spring Onion (bulb & greens), chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Corn flour | 1 tablespoon |
| Soy sauce | 1-1/4 tablespoons |
| Red Chilli sauce | 1-1/2 teaspoons |
| Vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Ginger, finely chopped | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 2 cloves |
| Green Chillies, slit lengthwise | 2 |
| Sesame seeds (Til seeds), roasted | 1 teaspoon |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2-3
Instructions:
-
Blanch the Cauliflower:
Begin by blanching the cauliflower florets. In a saucepan, add one-fourth cup of water along with a pinch of salt. Cook the cauliflower until itโs tender but still firm, making sure it retains its crunch. Drain the water and set it aside for later use. -
Prepare the Aromatic Base:
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add chopped onions, spring onions (save a little of the green portion for garnish), finely chopped garlic, ginger, and slit green chillies. Sautรฉ the mixture for a minute until fragrant and softened. Be careful not to burn the garlic. -
Add the Cauliflower:
Gently add the blanched cauliflower to the pan, mixing it with the sautรฉed aromatics. Stir on a low flame, ensuring that the cauliflower is well coated. -
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the cornflour with about 2 tablespoons of water (you can use the reserved cauliflower blanching water for this step). Stir this mixture into the pan, allowing it to thicken and create a luscious, velvety sauce. -
Flavor the Dish:
Add the red chilli sauce, soy sauce, and vinegar to the pan, stirring everything together. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more soy sauce or vinegar to balance the flavors. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency. -
Finish and Garnish:
Once the sauce has thickened and the cauliflower is well coated, turn off the heat. Transfer the dish to a serving bowl and garnish with the remaining chopped spring onion greens and roasted sesame seeds. -
Serve:
Spicy Sichuan Cauliflower is best enjoyed hot. Serve it alongside Chinese fried rice or noodles for a complete meal, or enjoy it as a stand-alone appetizer with a side of tomato sauce and a few drops of vinegar for extra tang.
Tips for the Perfect Sichuan Cauliflower:
- For extra crunch, you can deep fry the cauliflower after blanching, but blanching first ensures a healthier version without compromising too much on texture.
- The amount of red chilli sauce can be adjusted according to your preferred spice level. If you love a fiery kick, add a little extra.
- Roasting the sesame seeds enhances their nutty flavor, so donโt skip this step!
- This dish can be easily made vegan by using a plant-based alternative for the soy sauce and ensuring the red chilli sauce is vegan-friendly.
Enjoy this zesty, spicy dish and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills! Itโs the perfect balance of crunch, heat, and savory goodness that youโll keep coming back for.
