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A beautifully plated dish of Crispy Air-Fried Tso's Cauliflower Delight, with golden brown and crispy cauliflower coated in a glossy Tso's sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, presented on an elegant white plate.
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Crispy Air-Fried Tso's Cauliflower Delight

A healthier, air-fried twist on the classic General Tso's dish, featuring crispy cauliflower coated in a sweet and spicy sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Chinese
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cauliflower cut into bite-sized florets
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • ¼ cup soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option
  • ¼ cup hoisin sauce
  • 2 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon red chili flakes adjust to taste
  • Green onions sliced (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  • Preparation of Cauliflower: Wash and cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets. In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
  • Coating: Dip each cauliflower floret into the egg mixture, then coat it with the cornstarch-flour mix.
  • Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer. Place the coated cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they aren't touching. Air fry at a medium-high temperature until the florets are golden brown and crispy, about 15-20 minutes. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Sauce Preparation: While the cauliflower is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced ginger, minced garlic, and red chili flakes. Bring to a simmer and let the sauce thicken slightly.
  • Combining: Once the cauliflower is air-fried to perfection, toss them in the sauce until each floret is evenly coated.
  • Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.

Notes

Top Tip: For the crispiest cauliflower, preheat your air fryer and avoid overcrowding the basket.
FAQs:
  1. Can I make this dish gluten-free? - Yes, use gluten-free flour and tamari.
  2. Can I prepare this ahead of time? - Yes, but best served fresh.
  3. Can I use frozen cauliflower? - Yes, but thaw and dry it first.