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#### Directions:
1. **Prepare the Cauliflower**:
– Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Wash them thoroughly and blanch them in boiling water with a pinch of salt for about 2-3 minutes. Drain and pat dry the florets with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. This step helps soften the cauliflower and ensures a crispier result when frying.
2. **Make the Batter**:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornflour, rice flour, ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add water and whisk until you have a smooth, thick batter that coats the back of a spoon.
3. **Fry the Cauliflower**:
– Heat oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated, then carefully drop it into the hot oil.
– Fry in batches until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove the fried cauliflower using a slotted spoon and place it on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
4. **Prepare the Manchurian Sauce**:
– In another pan or wok, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic, ginger, and green chilies, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
– Add the chopped onions and bell pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
– Stir in the soy sauce, chili sauce, tomato ketchup, vinegar, and sugar. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
– Add water and bring the sauce to a simmer. Once it starts to bubble, stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, and the sauce will begin to coat the back of a spoon.
5. **Combine the Cauliflower and Sauce**:
– Add the fried cauliflower florets to the prepared sauce and toss them gently to coat all the pieces in the flavorful sauce.
– Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the cauliflower to absorb the sauce, but keeping the crispiness intact.
6. **Garnish and Serve**:
– Garnish the Cauliflower Manchurian with chopped spring onions for a fresh, crunchy topping.
– Serve hot as a snack, appetizer, or side dish with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles.
### Tips for Perfect Cauliflower Manchurian
– **Crispiness**: For an extra crispy texture, ensure that the cauliflower florets are completely dry before dipping them in the batter. You can also double coat the cauliflower for an even crispier result.
– **Customize the Sauce**: You can adjust the level of sweetness, spice, and tang in the sauce according to your preference. If you like it spicier, add more chili sauce or fresh green chilies. For a sweeter version, increase the sugar slightly.
– **Blanching**: Blanching the cauliflower before frying helps it cook evenly and enhances its tenderness without compromising the crispiness of the batter.
– **Make it Dry or Gravy**: If you prefer a dry version of Cauliflower Manchurian, use less water in the sauce. For a more gravy-like consistency, increase the water and cornstarch slurry for a thicker, saucy result.
### Variations to Try
– **Gobi Manchurian with Cashews**: Add roasted cashews for an added crunch and flavor boost.
– **Baked Cauliflower Manchurian**: For a healthier alternative, bake the battered cauliflower florets at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
– **Gobi Manchurian with Paneer**: Add small cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) to the sauce for a protein-packed version.
### Why You’ll Love Cauliflower Manchurian
Cauliflower Manchurian is a winning combination of crispy, crunchy fried cauliflower and a deliciously savory and tangy sauce. It’s a perfect balance of textures, from the crispy batter to the tender cauliflower, all complemented by a rich, flavorful sauce. This dish is not only vegetarian but also adaptable, making it a versatile addition to any meal or gathering.
### Conclusion
**Cauliflower Manchurian** is a deliciously addictive dish that’s packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you serve it as a snack, appetizer, or part of a main course, this Indo-Chinese favorite is sure to please everyone at the table. Quick to prepare, full of flavor, and completely customizable, Cauliflower Manchurian is the perfect dish to enjoy with family and friends!
