This Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a tasty treat! Crispy cauliflower bites are tossed in a sweet and savory sesame sauce that makes every bite super enjoyable. Yum!
Whenever I make this dish, my kitchen smells amazing! 🥢 It’s perfect for a quick snack or as a side, and you won’t believe how simple it is to whip up. Give it a try!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: A medium head of cauliflower gives the best results. If you’re not a fan, try using broccoli or even tempeh for variation.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but you can use gluten-free flour if needed. I personally love using chickpea flour for extra protein and flavor.
Sauce Sweeteners: Maple syrup is my go-to for a vegan option, while honey adds a nice touch if you’re not strict vegan. You could also use agave syrup as a substitute.
Sesame Oil: This gives a distinctive flavor. If you don’t have it, a neutral oil with a few drops of sesame seeds can work in a pinch.
Sriracha: For a kick of heat, but if you prefer milder flavors, you can skip it or replace with a dash of paprika.
How Do You Achieve Crispy Cauliflower?
Getting your cauliflower to be crispy is all about proper batter and baking techniques. Here’s how:
- Coat each floret well in the batter. The consistency should be thick enough to stick but not too runny.
- Space them out on the baking sheet. This helps with airflow, leading to crispiness.
- Baking at the right temperature is key. An oven at 425°F (220°C) ensures a golden exterior while keeping it tender inside.
- For frying, use medium heat and don’t overcrowd the pan to allow each piece to fry evenly.
Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cauliflower:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 cup water (or plant-based milk for a richer batter)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sriracha or other chili sauce (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
For Garnishing:
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (white and black)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy meal option! Perfect for any night of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and water. You want the batter to be smooth and not too thick. It should coat the cauliflower nicely!
3. Coat the Cauliflower:
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure to let any excess drip off. Arrange the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake the Cauliflower:
Bake the cauliflower in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. Remember to turn them halfway through cooking for an even crispiness. Alternatively, you can also shallow fry them in vegetable oil over medium heat until golden and crispy. Just drain them on paper towels afterward.
5. Prepare the Sticky Sesame Sauce:
While the cauliflower is baking, get started on the sauce! Heat the sesame oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Make It Saucy:
Add the soy sauce, maple syrup (or honey), rice vinegar, and sriracha (if you’re using it) into the saucepan. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
7. Thicken the Sauce:
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and keep stirring for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce is thickened and glossy.
8. Combine and Serve:
Remove the sauce from heat and immediately toss the baked or fried cauliflower in the sticky sesame sauce until they are evenly coated.
9. Dish It Up:
Serve the sticky sesame cauliflower over a bed of cooked white rice. Garnish generously with toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro if you like.
Enjoy this flavorful, crispy, and sticky cauliflower dish as a delightful vegan meal or appetizer! It’s sure to be a hit! 🌱🥢
FAQ for Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower Instead?
Absolutely! If using frozen cauliflower, make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture beforehand. This will help the batter adhere better and ensure a crispy texture after cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this Sticky Sesame Cauliflower gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use tamari instead of soy sauce. Easy peasy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness, or gently warm in the microwave.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked white rice, but you can also serve it over quinoa or a bed of sautéed vegetables for a healthier option. It can even be enjoyed as a snack on its own!
