Bang Bang Cauliflower (Wagamama Style)

1 cauliflower (cut into florets)
½ red onion, sliced
2 spring onions, chopped
1 thumb-sized ginger, julienned
Handful coriander stalks, chopped
Chilli flakes (to taste)
Vegetable oil

The Sauce

2 tablespoons sweet chilli sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
2 tablespoons mirin
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon vegetarian stir-fry sauce
Splash vegetable stock

PREPARATION

1. Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets, including some of the stalk for texture, then rinse and prepare for cooking.
2. Blanch cauliflower in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer immediately to cold water to stop cooking and keep it slightly firm.
3. In a bowl, mix sweet chilli sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar and vegetarian stir-fry sauce until smooth.

COOKING

1. Heat a wok until smoking hot, add oil and stir fry sliced onion and spring onions briefly until slightly softened.
2. Add ginger and coriander stalks, tossing quickly to release aroma without burning.
3. Add chilli flakes and stir fry briefly, allowing them to toast and release heat.
4. Add the blanched cauliflower and toss on high heat, allowing it to sear and develop slight colour.
5. Drizzle a little oil around the edge of the wok and continue tossing to enhance caramelisation.
6. Pour in the sauce and let it bubble vigorously, coating the cauliflower in a sticky glaze.
7. Add a small splash of vegetable stock and toss gently to loosen and balance the sauce.
8. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and clings to the florets without breaking them.
9. Serve immediately while hot and glossy.

School of Wok Tips

• Blanch first to speed up stir frying and avoid overcooking.
• Keep heat high for proper wok char and flavour.
• Add sauce at high heat so it caramelises quickly.
• Don’t over-stir to keep florets intact.

FAQs

Can I skip blanching?
Yes, but blanching helps achieve better texture and faster cooking.

Is it very spicy?
It has a kick—adjust sriracha and chilli flakes to taste.

Can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the brown sugar or sweet chilli sauce slightly.