Cauliflower steak
filipino adobo cauliflower steaks with soy sauce and vinegar
By:
Published:
02 Jul 2025
A while back, I was chatting with my neighbor, Manuela, who's originally from the Philippines. She shared a simple version of adobo that her grandmother used to make. I was immediately intrigued, and since I’ve been trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into my diet, I thought, "Why not try it with cauliflower?" Best. Decision. Ever. This isn't your average, run-of-the-mill cauliflower recipe. Nope. This is Filipino Adobo Cauliflower Steaks, and they are a flavor explosion waiting to happen. Tender cauliflower steaks, infused with the classic adobo flavors of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and a hint of sweetness, all simmered to perfection. Trust me, even the most skeptical meat-eaters will be reaching for seconds. If your having a hard time finding the right recipe, this is for you.
Adobo, if you're not familiar, is a cornerstone of Filipino cuisine. It’s typically made with meat (usually chicken or pork) braised in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and peppercorns. But the beauty of adobo lies in its versatility. You can pretty much adobo anything! And in this case, cauliflower steps up to the plate, soaking up all that savory goodness and transforming into something truly special. The slight char on the edges of the cauliflower, combined with the tangy, umami-rich sauce, creates a symphony of flavors that will dance on your taste buds. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make. So, whether you're a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more veggies to your diet, this recipe is a must-try.
Required Equipments
- Large Bowl
- Frying Pan or Skillet
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Whisk
Filipino Adobo Cauliflower Steaks with Soy Sauce and Vinegar: Frequently Asked Questions
Filipino Adobo Cauliflower Steaks with Soy Sauce and Vinegar
Transform cauliflower into a delicious, plant-based version of Filipino Adobo. These cauliflower steaks are marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices, then pan-seared to perfection. It's a flavorful and easy way to enjoy a vegan twist on a classic dish. One of my friends told me about their fun hiking experience in the mountains
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 2 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- First things first, whisk together the soy sauce, vinegar, water, brown sugar, garlic (minced), peppercorns, and bay leaf in a big ol’ bowl. This is your adobo marinade, folks!
- Now, carefully slice the cauliflower head into thick "steaks," about 1-inch thick. Try to keep the core intact so the steaks don’t fall apart. Don’t worry if they crumble a bit; we’re going for rustic here.
- Place the cauliflower steaks in the bowl with the marinade, making sure they’re well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for a few hours in the fridge. The longer, the better!
- Heat some oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once it's hot, carefully place the marinated cauliflower steaks in the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd. You might have to cook them in batches.
- Sear the cauliflower steaks for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they’re nicely browned and slightly crispy. Keep basting them with the remaining marinade as they cook.
- Once the cauliflower is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the steaks from the pan. Serve hot with rice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions. Enjoy every single bite! Don't forget that this stuff tastes way better if you let it rest for a bit.
📝 Notes
- Marinating the cauliflower longer intensifies the flavor.
- Serve with rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 180 kcal
Protein: 6g
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 5g
Calcium: 50mg
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