How To Make Black Pepper Cauliflower – Vegan Richa Inspired Recipe

Cauliflower is one of the most versatile vegetables, and when paired with black pepper, it transforms into a bold, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. Inspired by Vegan Richa’s black pepper cauliflower, this recipe is a delicious, plant-based take on the classic pepper chicken but made entirely vegan!

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and healthy vegan dinner, this black pepper cauliflower recipe is the perfect option. It’s crispy, spicy, and packed with aromatic flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it ideal for those with dietary restrictions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Crispy and Flavorful – The cauliflower is coated in a crispy batter and tossed in a bold black pepper sauce.

✅ Vegan and Gluten-Free – A perfect plant-based alternative to takeout-style dishes.

✅ Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight dinner.

✅ Meal Prep Friendly – You can prep the sauce and cauliflower ahead of time for an even faster meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crispy Cauliflower:

• 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets

• ½ cup chickpea flour (or all-purpose flour for a non-gluten-free option)

• ¼ cup cornstarch (helps with crispiness)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ cup water

• 1 tablespoon oil (for baking or air frying)

For the Black Pepper Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1-inch piece ginger, minced

• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (or sugar)

• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for extra spice)

• ½ cup vegetable broth or water

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water to thicken)

• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (for garnish)

• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Black Pepper Cauliflower

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

• In a large bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and water until smooth.

• Toss the cauliflower florets in the batter, ensuring they are evenly coated.

• Spread them on a lined baking sheet or place them in the air fryer basket. Drizzle with a little oil.

• Bake for 20-25 minutes or air fry for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.

Step 2: Make the Black Pepper Sauce

• Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a pan over medium heat.

• Add onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

• Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, black pepper, and red chili flakes.

• Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, and add the cornstarch slurry.

• Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

• Add the crispy cauliflower to the pan and toss it in the black pepper sauce.

• Stir until the cauliflower is evenly coated.

• Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your black pepper cauliflower with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a satisfying meal. Pair it with a side of stir-fried veggies for extra nutrition.

Tips for the Best Black Pepper Cauliflower

✔ Use Freshly Ground Black Pepper – This enhances the bold, spicy flavor of the dish.

✔ Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – This helps the cauliflower crisp up properly.

✔ Adjust the Spice Level – If you like it milder, reduce the black pepper and chili flakes.

✔ Make it Oil-Free – Skip the oil and bake or air fry the cauliflower instead of pan-frying.

Variations and Substitutions

✨ Make It Soy-Free – Swap soy sauce for coconut aminos.

✨ Add More Veggies – Toss in bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.

✨ Extra Crunch – Sprinkle roasted cashews or peanuts on top.

✨ Lower-Carb Option – Serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I store leftovers?

Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild heat from the black pepper, but you can adjust by reducing the chili flakes.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Fresh cauliflower is best for crispiness, but if using frozen, thaw and pat dry before coating.

Final Thoughts

This Black Pepper Cauliflower Vegan Richa-inspired recipe is the perfect combination of crispy, spicy, and savory flavors. It’s a must-try for anyone looking for a healthier, plant-based version of takeout-style dishes. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments!