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Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Pat them dry thoroughly to ensure maximum crispiness during cooking.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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

Keywords: sticky sesame cauliflower, plant-based, gluten free, vegan, appetizer, crispy cauliflower, sesame sauce, easy recipe, healthy snack