Orange Cauliflower Bites – Crispy Vegan Appetizer with Tangy Orange Glaze

Updated January 5, 2026 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Bites

  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend, see substitution note)

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon sea salt

  • 1 cup plain unsweetened soy milk (or other non-dairy milk, see substitution note)

  • 1 small head cauliflower (≈1½ lbs), cut into 1-inch uniform bite-size florets

  • Cooking oil spray (avocado or coconut oil spray)

For the Orange Glaze

  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil or coconut oil

  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger (peeled)

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (from 2–3 medium ripe oranges; strain if desired for smoothness)

  • ⅓ cup soy sauce or tamari (use tamari for gluten-free diets)

  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar

  • 3 large Medjool dates, pitted and chopped (or soaked in warm water for 5 minutes to soften)

  • 1½ tablespoons cornstarch

  • ¼ cup water (for cornstarch slurry)

  • Garnish: Sliced scallions, white and black sesame seeds (optional)

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, and sea salt. Whisk vigorously to ensure dry ingredients are evenly distributed. Gradually pour in the non-dairy milk, whisking continuously until a smooth, pourable batter forms (consistency should coat the back of a spoon). Add the cauliflower florets and gently toss, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly coated with batter. Let rest for 2–3 minutes to allow batter adhesion (optional but recommended).

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (177°C) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This ensures consistent heat distribution for even crisping.

Step 3: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

Line the base of the preheated air fryer basket with parchment paper. For precision, trace the basket’s outline on parchment, cut to size, and place to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Air-Fry the Cauliflower Bites

Remove batter-coated cauliflower from the bowl, gently shaking off excess batter to avoid sogginess. Arrange florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving ½ inch of space between pieces for airflow. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil. Close the air fryer and cook for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway (after 10 minutes) to ensure uniform browning. The florets are ready when golden and crispy—test by lifting a piece; it should be tender inside with a crunchy exterior.

Step 5: Prepare the Orange Glaze Base

While the cauliflower cooks, heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add ginger and garlic, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and garlic is just golden (avoid burning).

Step 6: Simmer the Glaze

Add orange juice, soy sauce/tamari, and rice vinegar. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

Step 7: Thickening the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with ¼ cup water to form a smooth slurry. Stir the slurry into the simmering sauce, whisking continuously. The sauce will thicken within 1 minute; remove from heat.

Step 8: Blend for Smoothness

Let the thickened glaze cool for 5 minutes, then transfer to a blender and purée until completely smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed (e.g., add a pinch of salt or extra orange juice).

Step 9: Toss and Serve

Transfer crispy cauliflower to a large bowl. Pour ⅔ of the glaze over, tossing gently to coat. Drizzle with remaining glaze, garnish with scallions and sesame seeds, and serve immediately.

Alternative Cooking Method: Oven Roasting

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  • Follow Steps 1–4, then arrange batter-coated cauliflower on the sheet, spacing evenly.

  • Spray with oil and roast for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Chef’s Tips & Reader Q&A

Pro Tips

  • Parchment Paper: For air fryer, trace the basket’s base on parchment, cut, and place to prevent sticking. For oven, use the same method.

  • Batter Adjustment: If too thick, thin with non-dairy milk; if too thin, add 1 tablespoon flour.

  • Glaze Sweetness: Reduce dates to 2 for less sweetness, or substitute with ¼ cup maple syrup (vegan).

Reader Questions & Answers

Q: Can I substitute dairy milk for non-dairy milk?

A: Yes! Regular dairy milk (whole, 2%, or skim) works with the same measurement, resulting in a vegetarian version without compromising texture.

Q: Does the air fryer cool too much when arranging food?

A: Standard preheat time is 3–5 minutes, not 20. After preheating, arrange cauliflower quickly (1–2 minutes) to minimize heat loss. Prioritize speed when placing food to maintain temperature.

Q: Gluten-free flour substitution?

A: Use a certified gluten-free blend (e.g., ½ cup rice flour + ¼ cup tapioca starch + 2 tablespoons cornstarch + ¼ teaspoon xanthan gum for binding).

Q: Are the dates critical for sweetness?

A: Yes—dates naturally sweeten the glaze without refined sugar. For lower sugar, use 2 dates or ¼ cup maple syrup, but the original dates enhance depth.

Reader Feedback:

“AMAZING. Using the dates to sweeten is a stroke of brilliance. So good; firmly in the rotation.” — A satisfied home cook.

Enjoy this vibrant, crispy cauliflower bites recipe—perfect for gatherings or a healthy snack!