Korean Baked Cauliflower

These Crispy Korean Style Cauliflower Bites are inspired by classic Korean Fried Chicken but with a healthy twist. Baked instead of fried, they still deliver the same crunch and incredible sticky sweet spicy glaze that makes them irresistible. Gochujang, sriracha, and mirin combine to create a perfectly balanced sauce that coats each golden brown cauliflower floret, making this dish a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

Not only is this dish plant based, but it’s also easy to prepare with simple ingredients. The double breading technique ensures the cauliflower stays extra crispy while absorbing all the rich Korean flavors. Whether you serve these as a party snack, a side dish, or even a main course, they will leave everyone wanting more. Pair them with a side of rice or enjoy them straight off the baking tray either way, they are a game changer!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• For the Cauliflower:

  • 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 tbsp potato starch (or corn starch)

  • ½ cup raw almonds

  • ⅔ cup panko breadcrumbs

  • 2 tbsp white sesame seeds

• Vegan Buttermilk Brine:

  • 1 cup non-dairy milk (e.g., almond milk)

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper

  • 1 tsp white pepper

  • ¼ tsp ginger powder

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp fine sea salt

• Sticky Spicy Sauce:

  • 1 tsp sesame oil

  • 1 tsp grated ginger

  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

  • ½ cup ketchup

  • ½ cup mirin

  • 2 tbsp sriracha

  • 2 tbsp tamari soy sauce

  • 4 tbsp maple syrup

  • 2 tsp rice wine vinegar

  • 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)

  • 1 pinch gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Brine: In a large bowl, mix all the buttermilk brine ingredients. Add the cauliflower florets, toss to coat, and let marinate in the fridge for 45 minutes to an hour.

2. Prepare the Coatings: Pulse raw almonds in a food processor until coarsely crushed. Mix with panko breadcrumbs in a bowl. In a separate bowl, combine flour and potato starch.

3. Make the Sauce: In a pan over medium heat, heat sesame oil. Sauté ginger and garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add all remaining sauce ingredients, mix well, and bring to a boil. Once thickened, remove from heat and set aside.

4. Bread the Cauliflower: Preheat oven to 420°F (215°C). Set up four stations: (1) cauliflower, (2) buttermilk brine, (3) flour mixture, (4) panko-almond mix. Double-coat each floret: first in flour, then brine, then flour again, then panko-almond mix. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

5. Bake & Finish: Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden and crispy. Reheat the sauce and toss the baked cauliflower in it immediately. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve warm.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 4

Korean Baked Cauliflower: A Crispy, Flavor-Packed Plant-Based Delight

If you’re a fan of bold flavors, crispy textures, and plant based alternatives to your favorite comfort foods, then Korean Baked Cauliflower is a must try dish. Inspired by the famous Korean Fried Chicken, this recipe delivers the same sweet, spicy, and sticky glaze while keeping things light and healthy by using baking instead of deep frying. Whether you’re new to Korean flavors or already love dishes like gochujang wings and spicy tofu, this dish is a game changer for your plant-based meals.

What Makes Korean Baked Cauliflower So Special?

The magic of this dish lies in its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The cauliflower florets are coated in a crispy almond panko crust that gives them an incredible crunch, similar to fried chicken. Once baked to perfection, they are tossed in a rich, glossy Korean inspired sauce, featuring ingredients like gochujang (Korean chili paste), garlic, mirin, and maple syrup. The result? A crispy, caramelized bite with layers of sweet, spicy, umami goodness.

Cauliflower is often considered a blank canvas in the culinary world. Its mild flavor allows it to absorb seasonings beautifully, making it an ideal substitute for chicken or other proteins. When paired with bold, spicy, and slightly tangy Korean flavors, it transforms into something completely addictive.

Why Choose Baked Over Fried?

Traditional Korean Fried Chicken is double fried, giving it an ultra crispy texture. While undeniably delicious, deep-frying can be heavy and calorie dense. This baked version offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing crispiness or flavor.

Here’s why baking is a fantastic option:

• Less Oil, Same Crisp: The use of almonds and panko breadcrumbs creates a crunchy coating without needing excessive oil.

• Healthier Option: Baking cuts down on unnecessary fats while keeping the dish light and digestible.

• Less Mess, Easier Cooking: No need for a deep fryer just pop the tray in the oven and let it crisp up!

The Star Ingredient: Gochujang

If you’re not familiar with gochujang, it’s time to add this Korean staple to your pantry. This fermented chili paste is sweet, spicy, and slightly smoky, adding depth and complexity to any dish. It’s commonly used in Korean barbecue, stews, and sauces, making it an essential ingredient in this baked cauliflower recipe.

Gochujang’s fermentation process gives it a unique umami-rich taste, which pairs beautifully with the maple syrup and rice wine vinegar in the sauce. Unlike regular hot sauces, which are purely spicy, gochujang brings sweetness, saltiness, and a subtle tang, making the flavor profile of this dish stand out.

What to Serve with Korean Baked Cauliflower

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with different sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• With Steamed Rice: A bowl of warm jasmine or short-grain rice complements the bold flavors perfectly.

• As a Snack or Appetizer: Serve these crispy cauliflower bites with a side of pickled radish or kimchi to balance out the heat.

• In a Wrap or Taco: Stuff the cauliflower into lettuce wraps, tortillas, or steamed bao buns for a fun, fusion-style meal.

• With a Cooling Dip: A simple sauce made of vegan mayo, sesame oil, and lime juice can help tone down the spice.

Health Benefits of Cauliflower

Beyond its delicious taste and versatility, cauliflower is packed with nutrients that make this dish not just indulgent, but also nutrient-dense. Here are some of its benefits:

• Rich in Fiber: Helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

• High in Antioxidants: Contains compounds like sulforaphane, which may help protect against diseases.

• Low in Calories & Carbs: A fantastic option for those following low-carb, keto, or plant-based diets.

• Loaded with Vitamins: High in Vitamin C, K, and folate, supporting immune health and cell function.

This makes Korean Baked Cauliflower not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a great choice for a wholesome meal.

How to Customize This Recipe

One of the best things about this recipe is that you can easily adjust it to your personal taste. Here are a few variations to try:

• Make It Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour for chickpea flour or a gluten-free blend, and use gluten-free panko.

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you love extra heat, add more gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) or drizzle with sriracha. For a milder version, reduce the gochujang or balance with more maple syrup.

• Air-Fryer Option: If you want an even crispier texture, you can air-fry the cauliflower at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.

• Make It Extra Saucy: If you love a heavily coated dish, double the sauce and save some for dipping.

• Add Protein: Toss in some tofu cubes or chickpeas for added plant-based protein.

The Perfect Party or Game-Day Snack

This dish is ideal for sharing. The crispy, saucy bites make them perfect for parties, game nights, or family gatherings. Since they’re baked instead of fried, you can make a large batch with minimal effort. Just prepare the cauliflower ahead of time, pop them in the oven, and toss them in the sauce right before serving.

Pair it with a cold drink maybe a Korean soju cocktail, sparkling water, or even an ice cold beer and you’ve got yourself the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a delicious, plant based alternative to classic Korean Fried Chicken, this recipe is a must-try. It combines crunchy textures, bold flavors, and healthier ingredients into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply trying to eat more plant-based meals, this dish will satisfy your cravings without compromise.

With its simple baking method, incredible taste, and easy customizations, it’s a recipe that belongs in your regular meal rotation. Try it once, and it might just become one of your favorite ways to enjoy cauliflower.