Servings: 3–4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes

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🥣 Ingredients

For the Cauliflower

• 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 3 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 3–4 tbsp plant-based milk (unsweetened)

For the Black Pepper Sauce

• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1–2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for slurry)

Optional Garnish

• Chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the cauliflower

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat a skillet for stovetop cooking.
2. In a bowl, whisk plant milk with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
3. Toss cauliflower florets in milk mixture, then coat with flour + cornstarch mixture.
4. Spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment (if baking) or keep ready for skillet.

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2. Cook the cauliflower

Option A — Oven-Roasted (crispy)

1. Bake 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Option B — Stovetop (pan-fried)

1. Heat 2–3 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add cauliflower in a single layer, cook 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden and crispy.

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3. Make the black pepper sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
2. Heat sauce in a small pan over medium heat.
3. Add cornstarch slurry, whisk, and cook 1–2 minutes until thickened.

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4. Toss cauliflower in sauce

1. Add crispy cauliflower to the pan with sauce.
2. Toss until every floret is coated evenly.

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5. Serve

• Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
• Serve hot as a snack, appetizer, or side with rice/noodles.

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💡 Tips

• Adjust black pepper to taste; freshly cracked black pepper gives the best flavor.
• For extra crispiness, double-coat cauliflower in flour mixture before baking.
• Can use air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, shaking halfway.

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⭐ Optional Variations

• Spicy Version: Add ½ tsp chili flakes or 1 tsp sriracha to the sauce.
• Garlic Lovers: Add 1–2 tsp garlic powder in the flour coating.
• Sesame Black Pepper: Toast 1 tbsp sesame seeds in the pan before tossing cauliflower.