Cauliflower Hash Brown Recipe Vegan and Deliciously Easy

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Looking for a delicious and healthy twist on classic breakfast fare? Cauliflower hash browns are the perfect vegan alternative to traditional potato hash browns, offering a lighter, nutrient-packed option without sacrificing flavor or texture.

These crispy, golden bites are wonderfully versatile, easy to make, and come together quickly for a satisfying morning meal or snack. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and packed with fiber and vitamins, making them ideal for anyone wanting to eat clean while indulging in comfort food.

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just curious about incorporating more vegetables into your diet, this cauliflower hash brown recipe vegan is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

In this post, I’ll guide you through the simple ingredients, essential equipment, and step-by-step instructions to make the perfect cauliflower hash browns every time. I’ll also share tips on how to customize them, nutrition information, and serving suggestions so you can enjoy them any time of day.

Let’s dive in and discover how easy and delicious cauliflower hash browns can be!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cauliflower hash browns are a game-changer for anyone seeking a vegan, low-carb alternative to traditional potato hash browns. They offer a crispy exterior with a tender interior, all while being light and packed with nutrients.

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen, and it comes together in under 30 minutes.

Not only are these hash browns deliciously crispy and golden, but they’re also incredibly versatile. You can serve them for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack.

They’re perfect for meal prep, freeze well, and can be seasoned to your liking, making them a fantastic addition to any meal plan.

If you love experimenting with plant-based recipes, check out other creative options like our Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes or the refreshing Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe.

Ingredients

  • 1 medium head cauliflower (about 4 cups grated)
  • 1/2 cup chickpea flour (also called gram flour or besan)
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed + 6 tablespoons water (flax egg)
  • 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil (for frying)
  • Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

  • Food processor (to grate cauliflower quickly)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Fine mesh strainer or clean kitchen towel (to squeeze out excess moisture)
  • Large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: Remove the leaves and core from the cauliflower. Cut it into florets and pulse them in your food processor until you get rice-sized pieces. Be careful not to over-process into a puree.
  2. Drain excess moisture: Transfer the grated cauliflower into a fine mesh strainer or wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for crispy hash browns.
  3. Make the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed with water. Stir well and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens.
  4. Mix the batter: In a large bowl, combine the grated cauliflower, chickpea flour, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the flax egg and mix until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be sticky but hold together when pressed. If too wet, add a little more chickpea flour.
  5. Heat the skillet: Place your skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Let it warm up until shimmering.
  6. Form the hash browns: Using your hands or a spoon, scoop about 1/4 cup of the cauliflower mixture and shape it into a patty roughly 2-3 inches wide.
  7. Cook the hash browns: Place the patties in the hot skillet, leaving space between each. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust heat as necessary to avoid burning.
  8. Drain and serve: Transfer the cooked hash browns to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil as needed.
  9. Garnish and enjoy: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives if desired and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

“For extra crispiness, make sure to squeeze out all the moisture from the grated cauliflower — this is the key to perfect hash browns!”

  • Make it gluten-free: Use chickpea flour or another gluten-free flour like rice flour or oat flour.
  • Add veggies: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers, green onions, or shredded carrots for added color and flavor.
  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Bake instead of fry: For a healthier option, bake the patties at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Make ahead: Prepare the mixture and form patties in advance. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (2 patties)
Calories 140 kcal
Protein 6 g
Carbohydrates 18 g
Fiber 5 g
Fat 6 g
Sodium 230 mg
Vitamin C 55% DV

Serving Suggestions

Cauliflower hash browns are delightfully versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside your favorite tofu scramble or vegan sausage for a hearty breakfast.

They also work wonderfully as a crispy side for a light lunch or dinner. Try them with avocado slices, fresh salsa, or a dollop of vegan sour cream.

For a fun twist, top with sautéed mushrooms or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra umami.

Want to explore more vegan-friendly appetizers or side dishes? Check out our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes or enjoy a creamy dip with the Halibut Dip Recipe (vegan variations available!).

Conclusion

Cauliflower hash browns are the perfect way to enjoy a crispy, flavorful breakfast without the heaviness of traditional potatoes. This vegan recipe is simple, quick, and packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body while satisfying your taste buds.

Thanks to the chickpea flour and flax egg, these hash browns hold together beautifully and crisp up to golden perfection in your skillet.

Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for busy mornings, or simply craving something new to add to your plant-based repertoire, these cauliflower hash browns are sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with seasonings and add-ins to make the recipe your own!

For more creative and delicious recipes, be sure to explore our collection including the savory Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe or the sweet and tangy Lemon Straws Recipe. Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Cauliflower Hash Brown Recipe Vegan

Description: A delicious and crispy vegan hash brown made with cauliflower instead of potatoes. Perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, grated
  • 1/4 cup chickpea flour
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Grate the cauliflower into fine rice-sized pieces.
  2. Place grated cauliflower in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
  3. In a large bowl, combine cauliflower, chickpea flour, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Mix until well combined and mixture holds together when pressed.
  5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  6. Form cauliflower mixture into small patties and place in skillet.
  7. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 10 g

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Marta K

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