This Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a delicious twist on a classic dish. Crispy cauliflower bites are coated in a sweet and tangy sesame sauce that makes each bite pop with flavor!
You’ll love how simple it is to whip up this dish! I often serve it as a snack or side, and it always disappears quickly. Just a heads up, napkins are highly encouraged! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower is ideal for a crunchy texture. If you’re in a pinch, frozen cauliflower can work too, just make sure to thaw and dry it well before battering!
All-purpose flour: This helps create a crispy outer layer. If you’re gluten-free, almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose mix can be good substitutes.
Cornstarch: It adds extra crispiness to the batter. You can replace it with arrowroot starch or potato starch if needed.
Honey or maple syrup: Either sweetener is great for the sauce! If you prefer a vegan option, use agave syrup instead.
Sesame oil: This gives an authentic flavor. In a pinch, you can use olive oil, but it won’t have the same nutty taste.
How Do You Get Cauliflower Extra Crispy?
The secret is in the batter and frying technique! Ensure your batter is not too thick; it should cling to the cauliflower but not overwhelm it. Before frying, make sure the oil is hot enough (350°F or 175°C) for that perfect crunch.
- Fry in small batches to avoid crowding, which can lower the oil temperature.
- Once golden, place on paper towels to absorb excess oil, which keeps them crispy.
What’s the Best Way to Coat Cauliflower in Sauce?
When you toss the cauliflower in the sauce, do it gently. You want to coat each piece without breaking the crispy batter. A large bowl makes this easier and allows for better mixing!
Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cauliflower:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup cold water
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Sticky Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
For Garnishing:
- Sesame seeds (white and black for garnish)
- Chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook. It’s a quick dish that’s full of flavor, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the batter is smooth and thick enough to coat the cauliflower. Adjust the water or flour as needed to get the right consistency.
2. Coat and Fry Cauliflower:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to about 350°F (175°C). Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting any excess drip off. Carefully place the coated florets into the hot oil. Fry in batches to ensure they cook evenly and don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes until they are golden and crispy. Once done, remove from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Sticky Sesame Sauce:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the saucepan while stirring continuously. Continue to cook for about 2 minutes or until the sauce thickens to a glossy and sticky consistency. Remove from heat once it’s ready.
5. Coat the Cauliflower:
Transfer the fried cauliflower to a large mixing bowl. Pour the sticky sesame sauce over the cauliflower and toss gently to coat each piece evenly in the sauce.
6. Serve:
Serve the sticky sesame cauliflower over a bed of cooked white rice. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh touch.
7. Enjoy:
Serve immediately while hot and sticky, and don’t forget the napkins! You’re in for a treat!
FAQ for Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower; just make sure to thaw and pat it dry before using. This helps to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crispy result when fried.
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use a gluten-free soy sauce, such as tamari. The rest of the ingredients can remain the same!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sticky sesame sauce a day ahead. Simply store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove before tossing it with the cauliflower.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You may want to add a little water or soy sauce to revive the sticky texture!
