This Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower recipe is a tasty treat that’s super fun to make! Crispy cauliflower bites are coated in a sweet and savory sesame sauce that will have your taste buds dancing.
Honestly, who knew veggies could taste this good? I love serving it over rice for a filling meal. If you’re like me, you might end up snacking on the leftovers straight from the fridge! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: The star of the dish! Fresh cauliflower is best, but frozen also works if you’re short on time. You can substitute with broccoli for a different flavor and crunch!
Flour: All-purpose flour gives a nice crispy coating. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free all-purpose flour. I’ve tried it, and it comes out great!
Honey/Maple Syrup: Honey adds sweetness, while maple syrup is a vegan option. I love using maple syrup for its rich flavor, but both work wonderfully!
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce is a must, but tamari is great for gluten-free diets. You can also try coconut aminos for a lighter, soy-free sauce!
Sesame Oil: This ingredient provides that unmistakable sesame flavor. If unavailable, a drop of olive oil will work, though it won’t have the same taste.
How Do I Fry Cauliflower Without Making a Mess?
The frying process can seem tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll be a pro! Start by heating your oil properly: you want it hot enough to sizzle when the cauliflower goes in.
- Use a deep, wide pan to prevent splatter and allow for even frying.
- Fry in small batches to keep the temperature consistent. This ensures they crisp up nicely!
- Make sure to let any excess batter drip off before adding to the oil, keeping the oil cleaner.
- Patience is key! Avoid crowding the pan, which lowers the oil’s temperature and can lead to soggy cauliflower.
Follow these techniques, and you’ll have golden, crispy cauliflower without the fuss! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Vegetable oil, for frying (or olive oil)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sriracha or chili sauce (optional for heat)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry)
- Sesame seeds (white and black), for garnish
- Chopped green onions or fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dish takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes prepping and cooking the cauliflower and another 15 minutes making the sticky sauce and assembling everything. In no time at all, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, and salt until smooth to create a thick batter. You want it to be well-mixed to coat the cauliflower nicely!
2. Coat and Fry Cauliflower:
Heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat (or use a deep fryer set to 350°F/175°C). Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting any excess batter drip off before carefully placing them into the hot oil. Fry the cauliflower in batches, cooking each batch for about 4-5 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. When cooked, remove them and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb extra oil.
3. Make the Sticky Sesame Sauce:
In a small saucepan, combine honey (or maple syrup), soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha (if you want some spice!), and sesame oil. Heat this mixture over medium heat until it’s warm. Next, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and looks glossy.
4. Combine Cauliflower and Sauce:
Take the fried cauliflower and place it in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the sticky sesame sauce over the cauliflower and toss gently so that each piece gets coated evenly in the delicious sauce!
5. Serve:
To serve, spoon the sticky sesame cauliflower over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with a sprinkle of both white and black sesame seeds and a handful of chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for a bright finish.
6. Enjoy:
Serve immediately while it’s warm and sticky, and dig in! This dish is sure to become a favorite in your home, whether as a main dish or a tasty appetizer!
Delicious and simple, enjoy your cooking adventure!
Short FAQ for Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the cauliflower completely and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before dipping it in the batter. This helps achieve that desired crispiness!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
For an extra kick, you can increase the amount of sriracha in the sauce or even add red pepper flakes to the batter or sauce. Adjust the spice level to your liking for a more intense flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While the cauliflower is best enjoyed fresh and crispy, you can prepare the batter and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days, and fry the cauliflower just before serving for that perfect crunch!
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cauliflower in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain some crispiness, or use an air fryer if you have one!
