This Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is crispy, sweet, and a little bit tangy! It’s made with crunchy cauliflower, coated in a tasty sesame sauce that binds everything together.
I love that it’s a fun twist on cauliflower – who knew veggies could be so yummy? Serve it with rice, and you have a meal that’s simple and scrumptious. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower is essential for this dish! However, if you can’t find it, broccoli can be a nice alternative for a different flavor and texture.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but you can easily swap in gluten-free flour if needed! For a nutty taste, consider using chickpea flour.
Soy Sauce: I recommend using soy sauce for umami flavor, but if you need a gluten-free option, tamari works perfectly. Coconut aminos are a good low-sodium, soy-free alternative too.
Honey: For a vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Both add sweetness and work great in the sauce!
Sesame Oil: This oil adds depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, you may use olive oil, but it won’t have the same characteristic aroma.
How Do I Get the Cauliflower Extra Crispy?
To achieve that delightful crunch when frying, it’s crucial to maintain the right oil temperature. Here’s how to get it crispy:
- Use a deep pot for frying which helps maintain the oil temperature when adding the cauliflower.
- Fry in small batches! This prevents overcrowding and keeps the oil hot enough.
- Don’t skip the paper towel after frying to absorb excess oil!
These tips will ensure your cauliflower comes out crispy and delicious every time. Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cauliflower:
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for GF)
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Sticky Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for GF)
- 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (white and black if available)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Sticky Sesame Cauliflower can be prepared in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend dish that impresses!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until smooth. This mixture should have a thick consistency that will coat the cauliflower well!
2. Coat the Cauliflower:
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure every piece is fully coated. This will create a lovely crunchy texture when fried.
3. Fry the Cauliflower:
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the battered cauliflower in small batches for 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and become crispy. Transfer the fried florets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. Make the Sticky Sesame Sauce:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Stir in the cornstarch slurry. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes sticky, which should take about 1-2 minutes. You want it thick enough to coat the cauliflower nicely!
6. Coat Cauliflower in Sauce:
Add the fried cauliflower florets to the saucepan and gently toss them in the sticky sesame sauce until each piece is fully coated. Yum!
7. Serve:
Serve the saucy cauliflower over a bed of cooked white rice. For extra flair, garnish with toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro or parsley if you like.
8. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your Sticky Sesame Cauliflower while it’s hot, crispy, and incredibly sticky!
This recipe yields a delightfully crispy and tender cauliflower dish with a flavorful sticky glaze that’s perfect for any occasion!
FAQ about Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just ensure it’s fully thawed and drained before coating it in the batter. Keep in mind that frozen cauliflower may release more moisture, so you might need to adjust the frying time accordingly for crispy results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either warm it in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. If it seems a bit dry, consider adding a splash of water or a bit more sauce while reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Just substitute the honey with maple syrup to keep it vegan-friendly. The coconut aminos can also be used instead of soy sauce for a soy-free version!
What Can I Serve with Sticky Sesame Cauliflower?
This dish pairs perfectly with cooked white rice, quinoa, or even stir-fried vegetables. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed greens for a complete meal!
