Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a flavorful, plant-based dish featuring crispy cauliflower florets coated in a rich, sweet, and savory sticky sesame sauce. This quick and easy recipe delivers a perfect balance of texture and taste, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With a golden glaze and crunchy garnishes, it’s a wholesome, gluten-free alternative perfect for vegans and adaptable to various spice levels and cooking methods.
- Author: Sarah
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- 3 tablespoons oil for frying or roasting (such as vegetable or canola oil)
Sticky Sesame Sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (use maple syrup for vegan)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Garnishes
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Pat them dry thoroughly to ensure maximum crispiness during cooking.
- Coat the Cauliflower: In a mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with cornstarch or arrowroot powder until lightly and evenly coated. This coating is essential for achieving a crispy exterior.
- Cook the Cauliflower: Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the coated cauliflower in batches until golden brown and crisp, turning occasionally for even cooking. Alternatively, roast the cauliflower on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes until crisp. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sticky Sesame Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce or tamari, maple syrup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create the sauce.
- Toss Cauliflower in Sauce: Return the crispy cauliflower to the pan over low heat. Pour the sauce over it and toss quickly until each piece is evenly coated and the sauce thickens into a sticky glaze.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top to add freshness and extra crunch. Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.
Notes
- Pat dry cauliflower florets well before coating for the best crispness.
- Use fresh garlic and ginger to enhance flavor significantly.
- Cook cauliflower in batches without overcrowding the pan for even cooking and texture.
- Taste the sauce before tossing and adjust sweetness or saltiness as desired.
- Serve the dish immediately to enjoy the crisp-tender bites at their best.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: sticky sesame cauliflower, plant-based, gluten free, vegan, appetizer, crispy cauliflower, sesame sauce, easy recipe, healthy snack