Chinese Cauliflower Stir Fry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of spicy, numbing, and savory elements creates a taste sensation that’s both exciting and satisfying.

• Vegan and Gluten-Free Adaptable: This plant-based dish can be easily adjusted to suit gluten-free diets by substituting tamari for soy sauce.

• Quick and Easy: With a straightforward preparation and cooking process, this stir-fry makes for a convenient weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 1 head of Chinese cauliflower (or regular cauliflower), cut into bite-sized florets
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 to 6 dried chili peppers, cut into halves
• 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 to 2 tablespoons Doubanjiang (fermented spicy bean paste)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower:

   • If using regular cauliflower, blanch the florets in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and set aside. This step helps achieve the desired tenderness.

2. Stir-Fry Aromatics:

   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
   • Add the dried chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns. Stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute.
   • Add the green onions, ginger, and garlic. Continue to stir-fry for another minute.

3. Add Doubanjiang:

   • Incorporate the Doubanjiang into the skillet, stirring to combine with the aromatics. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the oil turns red and the paste is well integrated.

4. Cook Cauliflower:

   • Add the cauliflower florets to the skillet. Stir to coat them evenly with the sauce.
   • Pour in the vegetable broth or water, soy sauce, and sugar. Mix well.
   • Cover the skillet and let the cauliflower cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender yet crisp.

5. Serve:

   • Transfer the stir-fried cauliflower to a serving plate. Enjoy it hot as a main course or side dish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Incorporate tofu, seitan, or tempeh for added protein. If not adhering to a vegan diet, consider adding sliced Chinese sausage  for extra flavor.

• Vegetable Mix: Enhance the dish by adding bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms to the stir-fry.

• Spice Level: Adjust the number of dried chili peppers to control the heat according to your preference.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating:

  • Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated thoroughly.

• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the cauliflower may become mushy upon thawing.

FAQs

What is Doubanjiang, and where can I find it?

Doubanjiang is a fermented spicy bean paste made from broad beans and chili peppers, commonly used in Sichuan cuisine. It imparts a deep, savory, and spicy flavor to dishes. You can find it in Asian grocery stores or online.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, to make the dish gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari and ensure that the Doubanjiang you use does not contain wheat.

Is this dish very spicy?

The dish has a noticeable spiciness due to the dried chili peppers and Doubanjiang. You can adjust the heat level by reducing the number of dried chilies or using a milder bean paste.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

While fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen cauliflower if needed. Thaw and drain it thoroughly before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the dish.

What can I serve with this stir-fry?

This stir-fry pairs well with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it alongside other Chinese dishes for a complete meal.

How can I add more protein to this dish?

To add more protein, consider incorporating tofu, tempeh, or seitan. If you’re not following a vegan diet, sliced chicken, or shrimp can also be added.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time by chopping the vegetables and measuring the sauce ingredients. Store them separately and combine them when ready to cook.

Chinese Cauliflower Stir Fry

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• Author: Julia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Experience the bold and spicy flavors of Chinese Cauliflower Stir-Fry , a classic Sichuan dish featuring crispy cauliflower, dried chilies, and a savory, numbing sauce made with Doubanjiang (fermented chili bean paste). This quick and easy vegan stir-fry is packed with umami flavor, making it a perfect side or main dish with rice!

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Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 head Chinese cauliflower (or regular cauliflower), cut into bite-sized florets
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 4 to 6 dried chili peppers, cut into halves
• 1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp minced ginger
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce:

• 1 to 2 tbsp Doubanjiang (fermented spicy bean paste)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
• ½ tsp sugar
• ¼ cup vegetable broth or water

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Instructions

• Prepare the Cauliflower:

  • If using regular cauliflower, blanch the florets in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and set aside.

• Stir-Fry Aromatics:

  • Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add dried chilies and Sichuan peppercorns. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add green onions, ginger, and garlic, stirring for another minute.

• Add the Doubanjiang:

  • Stir in Doubanjiang and cook for 1-2 minutes until the oil turns red and fragrant.

• Cook the Cauliflower:

  • Add the cauliflower florets, stirring to coat with the sauce.
  • Pour in vegetable broth, soy sauce, and sugar.
  • Stir well, cover, and let cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cauliflower is tender but crisp.

• Serve:

  • Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy hot over steamed rice!

Notes

• Adjust Spice Level – Reduce chilies or Doubanjiang for milder heat.
• Protein Boost – Add tofu, tempeh, or seitan for extra protein.
• Vegetable Additions – Try bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Chinese