Cauliflower Manchurian

Step 1

Cut the 1 head cauliflower into bite-size florets. In a large bowl, whisk 0.5 cup flour, 0.25 cup cornstarch, 0.5 tsp salt, and 0.5 cup water until smooth and thick enough to coat the florets.

Step 2

Toss the cauliflower in the batter until evenly coated. Heat 0.5 inch oil in a large skillet over medium-high until a drop of batter sizzles immediately.

Step 3

Fry the cauliflower in batches, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.

Step 4

In a small bowl, mix 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp ketchup, 1 tbsp water, and 1 tsp sugar. Mince the 3 garlic cloves and slice the 1 red bell pepper and 4 green onions (white and green parts separated).

Step 5

Heat 1 tbsp oil in the same skillet over medium-high. Add the garlic and white parts of the green onions; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 6

Add the bell pepper and stir-fry until slightly tender, about 2 minutes. Pour in the sauce and let it bubble until thickened, about 1 minute.

Step 7

Add the fried cauliflower and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for 1 minute, then remove from heat and sprinkle with the green onion tops before serving.