GENERAL TSO'S CAULIFLOWER

General Tso's Cauliflower image

Cauliflower florets are deep-fried to a crispy golden brown, then coated in a sauce with just the right amount of kick. This is a fun alternative to the classic chicken dish.-Nick Iverson, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 45m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 22

Ingredients

Oil for deep-fat frying
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 cup club soda
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into 1-inch florets (about 6 cups)
SAUCE:
1/4 cup orange juice
3 tablespoons sugar
3 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons vegetable broth
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 teaspoons sesame oil
2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons canola oil
2 to 6 dried pasilla or other hot chilies, chopped
3 green onions, white part minced, green part thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh gingerroot
1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest
4 cups hot cooked rice

Steps:

In an electric skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 375°. Combine flour, cornstarch, salt and baking powder. Stir in club soda just until blended (batter will be thin). Dip florets, a few at a time, into batter and fry until cauliflower is tender and coating is light brown, 8-10 minutes. Drain on paper towels., For sauce, whisk together the first six ingredients; whisk in cornstarch until smooth., In a large saucepan, heat canola oil over medium-high heat. Add chilies; cook and stir until fragrant, 1-2 minutes. Add white part of onions, garlic, ginger and orange zest; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir soy sauce mixture; add to saucepan. Bring to a boil; cook and stir until thickened, 2-4 minutes., Add cauliflower to sauce; toss to coat. Serve with rice; sprinkle with thinly sliced green onions.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 584 calories, Fat 17g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 1628mg sodium, Carbohydrate 97g carbohydrate (17g sugars, Fiber 5g fiber), Protein 11g protein.