"Three spiced cauliflower tacos with cashew crema and cabbage slaw on a slate platter"

Vegan Cauliflower Tacos: Crispy, Flavorful Plant-Based Perfection

Key Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-40 minutes
Total Time: 40-55 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 375 kcal
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Dietary Tags
  • 🌱 Vegan
  • 🌾 Gluten-Free Optional
  • 💚 Plant-Based
  • 🥬 High Fiber

Essential Equipment

Must-Have Tools
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
Nice-to-Have
  • Blender
  • Mandoline slicer
  • Cast iron skillet

Ingredients

For Cauliflower
  • 1 large cauliflower head (approximately 2 lbs)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For Taco Assembly
  • 8 corn tortillas (gluten-free)
  • 1 red cabbage, thinly sliced
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
Vegan Crema
  • 1 cup raw cashews
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • Salt to taste

Cooking Method

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Prepare Cauliflower:
    • Chop cauliflower into bite-sized florets
    • Toss with olive oil and spices
    • Spread evenly on parchment-lined baking sheet
  3. Roast Cauliflower:
    • Bake for 25-30 minutes
    • Flip halfway for even browning
    • Look for golden edges and crispy texture
  4. Make Vegan Crema:
    • Soak cashews in hot water (30 minutes)
    • Blend with water, lime juice, salt
    • Blend until smooth and creamy
  5. Assemble Tacos:
    • Warm tortillas
    • Layer roasted cauliflower
    • Top with cabbage slaw
    • Drizzle cashew crema
    • Garnish with cilantro

Pro Tips

🔥 Crispy Cauliflower Secrets:
  • Don’t overcrowd baking sheet
  • Pat cauliflower dry before seasoning
  • High heat is key for crispy edges
❄️ Storage Hacks:
  • Refrigerate components separately
  • Keeps up to 3 days
  • Reheat cauliflower in oven to maintain crispiness

Nutritional Breakdown

Per Serving:
Calories: 375
Protein: 12g
Carbs: 35g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 8g

Common Variations

  • Spice Lovers: Add chipotle powder
  • Protein Boost: Add black beans
  • Gluten-Free: Confirm tortilla ingredients

Troubleshooting

Avoid These Mistakes:
  • Soggy cauliflower: Use high heat
  • Bland flavor: Don’t skimp on spices
  • Dry tacos: Always include creamy element

Enjoy your plant-powered taco adventure! 🌮🌱