Get ready to elevate your culinary game with these 20 mouth-watering Asian cauliflower recipes! Cauliflower has become a staple ingredient in many modern kitchens, and for good reason – it’s incredibly versatile, packed with nutrients, and can be transformed into a wide range of delicious dishes. In this article, we’ll take you on a flavorful journey across Asia, showcasing the most unique and mouth-watering cauliflower recipes from countries like Korea, Thailand, China, Japan, Vietnam, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, Cambodia, Laos, Burma, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Tibet, Uzbekistan, and Armenia. From spicy stir-fries to creamy curries, these dishes are sure to inspire your cooking and satisfy your taste buds.
Spicy Korean Cauliflower Stir-Fry
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this spicy and savory cauliflower stir-fry, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons of Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cauliflower and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the Gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and red pepper flakes.
4. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet and stir to combine with the cauliflower.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender and coated in the spicy sauce.
6. Stir in the minced garlic and garnish with chopped green onions.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai Peanut Cauliflower Curry
Thai Peanut Cauliflower Curry Recipe
A creamy and aromatic Thai-inspired curry that showcases the unique flavor of cauliflower, with a rich and nutty peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons of peanut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon of Thai red curry paste
– 1 cup of coconut milk
– 1/4 cup of creamy natural peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the curry paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the cauliflower and coconut milk; stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
6. Stir in peanut butter, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chinese Sweet and Sour Cauliflower
Chinese Sweet and Sour Cauliflower Recipe
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple and sugar with the tanginess of vinegar, this sweet and sour cauliflower recipe is a must-try!
- 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pineapple wedges and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch. Add the vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger; mix until well combined.
- Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the sweet and sour mixture.
- Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cauliflower mixture and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cauliflower is tender-crisp.
- Serve hot, garnished with pineapple wedges and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time:
10-12 minutes
Japanese Teriyaki Cauliflower Skewers
Elevate your vegetable game with these sweet and savory Japanese-inspired cauliflower skewers, perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and honey until well combined.
3. Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Thread 3-4 cauliflower pieces onto each bamboo skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with vegetable oil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Lemongrass Cauliflower Soup
This creamy and aromatic soup is a twist on traditional Vietnamese flavors, combining the brightness of lemongrass with the comforting warmth of cauliflower. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised and chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup of coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon of fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chopped lemongrass and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the cauliflower, broth, and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
4. Season with fish sauce (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Indian Gobi Masala Cauliflower Dish
A flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired cauliflower dish, Gobi Masala is a perfect side dish or main course option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cauliflower, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and cayenne pepper (if using); stir to combine.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until cauliflower is tender and slightly browned.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves; serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Malaysian Sambal Cauliflower Stir-Fry
This flavorful stir-fry combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the bold, spicy flavors of sambal chili paste and aromatics. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon sambal chili paste
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic, onion, and cauliflower; stir-fry until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sambal chili paste, soy sauce, salt, and pepper; stir-fry for an additional minute.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Indonesian Coconut Cauliflower Curry
Indonesian Coconut Cauliflower Curry Recipe
This aromatic curry is a twist on the classic Indian dish, with the added sweetness of coconut milk and the crunch of cauliflower. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Pan-fry the cauliflower in oil until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Mix in cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Filipino Adobo Cauliflower Stew
Experience the bold flavors of Filipino cuisine with this hearty and aromatic cauliflower stew, infused with the classic adobo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1/4 cup fish sauce (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Water or chicken broth for cooking
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add cauliflower; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 10 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, fish sauce (if using), and black pepper.
5. Pour the adobo mixture over the cauliflower; season with salt to taste.
6. Add water or chicken broth as needed for desired consistency.
7. Simmer stew for an additional 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and steamed rice (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Singaporean Chili Cauliflower Noodles
A flavorful fusion of Asian-inspired spices and vibrant cauliflower noodles, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to desired spiciness)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz noodles of your choice (e.g., rice noodles or eggless noodles)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem.
3. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles noodles.
4. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
6. Add chili flakes, soy sauce, water, and oyster sauce (if using); stir to combine.
7. Add cauliflower noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot over your choice of noodles.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Cambodian Cauliflower Amok Curry
Experience the bold flavors of Cambodia with this traditional Cauliflower Amok Curry, a popular dish in the country’s royal courts. This recipe brings together the creamy richness of coconut milk and the subtle sweetness of palm sugar to elevate your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup palm sugar
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened.
2. Add cauliflower, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne; stir-fry for 5 minutes.
3. Pour in coconut milk and palm sugar; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until cauliflower is tender.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Laotian Cauliflower Larb Salad
A flavorful and refreshing twist on the traditional Lao salad, Laotian Cauliflower Larb is a perfect combination of tangy, sweet, and savory. This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add some excitement to their meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into small florets
– 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon of lime juice
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of toasted peanuts or cashews
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cauliflower florets, fish sauce, lime juice, cilantro, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle toasted nuts over the salad.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time, just chill and enjoy!
Burmese Cauliflower Tea Leaf Salad
Experience the unique flavors of Myanmar with this refreshing salad, featuring crispy cauliflower and tender tea leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups of tea leaves (Assam or Darjeeling work well)
– 1/4 cup of fried shallots
– 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon of lime juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add cauliflower florets and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and crispy (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove the cauliflower from the wok and set aside.
4. In the same wok, add tea leaves and cook, stirring constantly, until they are fragrant and slightly wilted (about 2-3 minutes).
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked cauliflower, fried shallots, fish sauce, lime juice, and salt.
6. Toss everything together to combine.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bangladeshi Cauliflower Bhaji
A flavorful and crunchy snack from Bangladesh, Cauliflower Bhaji is a popular street food that’s easy to make at home. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup chickpea flour (besan)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together chickpea flour, baking powder, salt, cumin powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder.
2. Add cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the spice mixture.
3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. When hot, add the cauliflower mix and fry for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Remove from heat and sprinkle garlic and lemon juice on top. Toss to combine.
5. Serve hot garnished with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pakistani Cauliflower Pakora Fritters
A popular street food in Pakistan, cauliflower pakora fritters are crispy, flavorful bites that make a great snack or appetizer. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the savory flavors of spices and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, garam masala, and red chili powder.
2. Add the cauliflower florets to the dry mixture and toss until well coated.
3. Heat enough oil in a deep frying pan to deep-fry the cauliflower pieces.
4. When hot, add the cauliflower pieces and fry until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve hot garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sri Lankan Cauliflower Coconut Curry
Sri Lankan Cauliflower Coconut Curry Recipe
This Sri Lankan-inspired curry is a flavorful and aromatic vegetarian dish that combines the simplicity of cauliflower with the richness of coconut milk and spices. This recipe makes a perfect accompaniment to steamed rice or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
– 1 can of full-fat coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until they start to brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the cauliflower and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Nepali Cauliflower Momo Dumplings
Experience the authentic flavors of Nepal with these tender and aromatic cauliflower momos, wrapped in a delicate dough and steamed to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into small florets
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, and cauliflower. Cook until the cauliflower is tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Mix in salt to taste.
4. To make the dough, combine the flour and water. Knead for 2-3 minutes, until smooth.
5. Divide the dough into small portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
6. Place a tablespoon of the cauliflower mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal.
7. Brush the tops with oil and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the momos are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tibetan Cauliflower Thukpa Soup
Thukpa is a popular Tibetan noodle soup, typically made with vegetables and spices. This recipe puts a twist on the classic by adding cauliflower to give it an extra boost of nutrition and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 8 ounces noodles (such as thin rice noodles or egg noodles)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili flakes; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cauliflower and vegetable broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until cauliflower is tender.
5. Cook noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
6. Season soup with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Uzbek Cauliflower Plov Pilaf
Experience the bold flavors of Uzbekistan with this hearty pilaf recipe, featuring tender cauliflower and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably Uzbek-style plov rice)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add cauliflower florets and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Armenian Cauliflower Dolma Rolls
Transform cauliflower into a delicious and unique dolma roll, inspired by Armenian cuisine. This recipe is perfect for a healthy snack or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
• 1 head of cauliflower
• 1/4 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into small florets.
4. In a bowl, mix cooked rice with parsley, mint, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each cauliflower piece with the rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the florets.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed cauliflower and squeeze lemon juice.
7. Place dolma rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 20 delicious and unique Asian-inspired cauliflower recipes! From spicy Korean stir-fries to creamy Indian curries, each dish showcases the versatility of this humble vegetable. Discover the bold flavors of Thai peanut curry, Chinese sweet and sour sauce, Japanese teriyaki skewers, and many more international twists on traditional dishes. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for new ideas, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and inspire your next culinary adventure.
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