How to Make Vietnamese Vegan Cauliflower Stir-Fry
Vietnamese cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, and making a vegan cauliflower stir-fry is a delightful way to capture that essence. This dish is not only colorful, but it’s also healthy and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is perfect for you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 cup snap peas or green beans
- 2 medium carrots, julienned
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon vegan oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Fresh coriander or basil for garnish
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
Begin by rinsing the cauliflower under cold water. Cut it into bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking. You can also use pre-packaged cauliflower florets if you’re short on time.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sliced onion, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Next, introduce the cauliflower florets to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, allowing them to get a bit of color. Then, add the bell pepper, snap peas, and carrots, continuing to stir-fry for another 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
Step 4: Season the Stir-Fry
Pour the soy sauce and vegan oyster sauce (if using) over the stir-fried vegetables. Mix well to coat everything, and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes. Drizzle with sesame oil for added flavor.
Step 5: Final Touches
Remove the skillet from heat and taste your stir-fry. Adjust seasoning if needed, adding more soy sauce or a splash of lime juice for an extra zing. Transfer the stir-fry to a serving platter and garnish with fresh coriander or basil.
Serving Suggestions
This Vietnamese vegan cauliflower stir-fry pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or your favorite noodles. For an extra pop of flavor, consider sprinkling sesame seeds or a drizzle of sriracha on top before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan cauliflower stir-fry is not only packed with nutrients from a variety of colorful vegetables but also embodies the balance of flavors that Vietnamese cuisine is known for. It is gluten-free if you use tamari, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Plus, it's quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Try this delicious and healthy Vietnamese vegan cauliflower stir-fry at your next meal, and enjoy the delightful flavors and textures. Your taste buds will thank you!