Tempura Cauliflower Taco Bites (Printable)
Crispy cauliflower tempura and zesty slaw fill tortillas, finished with a chipotle sauce for a bold vegetarian meal.
# Components:
→ Cauliflower Tempura
01 - 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1/2 cup cornstarch
04 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
05 - 1 teaspoon salt
06 - 1 cup cold sparkling water, plus more as needed
07 - Vegetable oil, for frying
→ Slaw
08 - 1 cup finely shredded red cabbage
09 - 1/2 cup shredded carrot
10 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
11 - 2 tablespoons lime juice
12 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
13 - Salt and pepper, to taste
→ Chipotle Sauce
14 - 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
15 - 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
16 - 1 to 2 teaspoons chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
17 - 1 teaspoon lime juice
18 - Pinch of salt
→ Assembly
19 - 8 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed
20 - 1 avocado, sliced
21 - Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
22 - Lime wedges, for serving
# Method:
01 - Combine shredded red cabbage, carrot, chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Toss thoroughly and set aside to marinate.
02 - In a separate small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, minced chipotle in adobo, lime juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Refrigerate until needed.
03 - Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy pot until it reaches 2 inches depth. Heat to 350°F.
04 - Whisk flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Gradually stream in cold sparkling water, mixing until a smooth, thick batter is formed. Add extra water if needed for consistency.
05 - Dip cauliflower florets in the batter, allowing excess to drip off, then gently lower into hot oil using tongs. Fry in batches until golden and crispy, about 3–4 minutes each. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
06 - Heat tortillas in a dry skillet or briefly in the microwave until soft and pliable.
07 - Arrange tempura cauliflower in warmed tortillas. Top with slaw, avocado slices, and drizzle with chipotle sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Fusion of Japanese tempura and Mexican tacos for unique flavors
- Vegetarian-friendly and packed with color and crunch
02 -
- For vegan tacos use plant based yogurt and mayonnaise
- Check tortillas for gluten if serving to gluten sensitive guests
03 -
- Keep batter cold for extra crispiness
- Try adding pickled onions or jalapenos for more zing