Description
This BBQ Cauliflower Bites Bowl is a fun, healthy twist on comfort food. Crispy roasted cauliflower is tossed in tangy BBQ sauce and served over a bed of rice or grains with fresh veggies, creamy avocado, and a drizzle of dairy-free ranch or tahini dressing. It’s vegan, customizable, and full of bold, smoky flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
For the BBQ Cauliflower:
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the Bowl Base:
2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or farro
1 cup shredded purple cabbage
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 avocado, sliced
1/2 cup chopped cucumber
1/4 cup chopped green onion
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Optional Dressing:
Vegan ranch or tahini dressing, for drizzling
Instructions
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Preheat oven: Set oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Prepare the cauliflower batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, plant milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt until smooth.
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Coat the cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, then place on the baking sheet. Make sure they’re evenly spaced.
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Bake the cauliflower: Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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Toss in BBQ sauce: Remove from oven, toss the baked cauliflower in BBQ sauce, and return to the oven for another 10–15 minutes until crispy and caramelized.
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Build the bowls: Divide rice or grains among bowls. Top with BBQ cauliflower, cabbage, corn, avocado, cucumber, and green onions.
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Finish and serve: Drizzle with your favorite vegan dressing and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve warm.
Notes
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Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and BBQ sauce.
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For extra crunch, roast the cauliflower slightly longer or air fry at 400°F for 15–20 minutes.
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Add chickpeas or black beans for more protein.