Name: Stir-Fried Cauliflower with Tomato Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 10 oz Chinese cauliflower florets or regular cauliflower (about 1/2 head cauliflower); 1 tomato, diced; 2 cloves garlic, sliced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 teaspoons sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)

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Introduction

Stir-fried Cauliflower with Tomato Sauce is a quick and flavorful vegetarian dish that highlights tender cauliflower in a rich, tangy tomato sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it makes a perfect light meal or a vibrant side to accompany your dinner.

The image shows a black round plate filled with cooked cauliflower florets topped with a rich red sauce. The cauliflower stems are light green and slightly shiny, while the florets are orange from the sauce. The sauce has small bits of vegetables like onions and looks thick and vibrant. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a pair of black chopsticks resting on the right side of the plate. A blue cloth is partially visible at the bottom right corner and a white ceramic cup with blue patterns is at the top left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

10 oz Chinese cauliflower florets or regular cauliflower (about 1/2 head cauliflower)
1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
1 tomato, diced
2 cloves garlic, sliced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare a large bowl of cold water and set it aside.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and boil for 2 minutes until the stems are partially cooked but still firm. Turn off the heat immediately and transfer the cauliflower to the cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain thoroughly once cooled.
Step 3: Heat the peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the sliced garlic and stir for a few moments until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the diced tomato to the skillet. Stir and cook until the tomatoes soften completely, about 4 to 5 minutes. Mix in the tomato paste and stir thoroughly. Add sugar to balance the flavors as needed.
Step 5: Return the drained cauliflower to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt. Gently mix using a spatula to coat the cauliflower evenly with the tomato sauce. Cook until the cauliflower reaches your desired tenderness. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or sugar if desired.
Step 6: Transfer to a plate and serve hot, either as a main dish or a flavorful side.

Tips & Variations

For extra depth, add a pinch of chili flakes when cooking the garlic for a subtle heat.
Substitute peanut oil with olive oil or sesame oil for different flavor notes.
Use fresh tomatoes in season for a sweeter sauce, or canned diced tomatoes when fresh aren’t available.
Add chopped fresh herbs like basil or cilantro just before serving for a burst of freshness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. For best texture, avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the cauliflower crisp.

How to Serve

A black plate filled with cooked cauliflower florets that are light green and orange-red from sauce, mixed with slices of cooked onion and small tomato pieces scattered throughout. The cauliflower stems are long and pale green, while the tops have a bumpy texture, covered unevenly in the reddish sauce. The plate sits on a white marbled surface next to a pair of black chopsticks on the right side and a small bit of a blue cloth in the bottom right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cauliflower instead of Chinese cauliflower?

Yes, regular cauliflower works perfectly well for this recipe. Just be sure to cut it into similar-sized florets to ensure even cooking.

How do I adjust the sweetness or sourness of the tomato sauce?

Adjust the sugar quantity to balance the natural acidity of your tomatoes. If the sauce tastes too sour, add a little more sugar; if it’s too sweet, a pinch of salt or a dash of lemon juice can help balance it out.