Cashew Cauliflower
1 large cauliflower, washed and cut into florets
1/2 cup cornstarch
For the Sauce:
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried red chili flakes (adjust for spice preference)
1 cup roasted, unsalted cashews
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the cauliflower florets in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle with cornstarch and toss until each piece is evenly coated.
- Arrange the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the florets are crispy and golden.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the water and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch until smooth.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and chili flakes. Stir well to combine.
- Gradually add the cornstarch-water mixture to the saucepan while stirring. Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
- Once the cauliflower is baked, transfer it to a large serving bowl. Pour the sauce over the cauliflower and gently toss to coat evenly
- Add the roasted cashews and toss again.
Tips and Variations
1. Soak the cashews: For an ultra-creamy sauce, soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Roast the cauliflower: Roasting the cauliflower before blending it with the cashew sauce enhances its natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
3. Customize with spices: Add a pinch of paprika, a sprinkle of cumin, or a dash of nutmeg to give the dish your own unique flavor.
4. Make it a main course: Serve the Cashew Cauliflower as a main dish, paired with your favorite protein or as a vegan “steak.”
Nutritional Information (per serving)
– Calories: 220
– Protein: 8g
– Fat: 14g
– Saturated Fat: 2.5g
– Cholesterol: 0mg
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fiber: 5g
– Sugar: 8g
– Sodium: 200mg