This Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a tasty treat that’s super easy to make! The crispy cauliflower is covered in a sweet and savory sesame sauce that will tickle your taste buds.
Trust me, you won’t want to stop munching on this! I love serving it with rice for a complete meal. Just be ready to share—if you can! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower is key for a crispy and tasty dish. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you could try broccoli instead. It won’t have the same flavor, but it will still be delicious!
Flour: All-purpose flour gives the perfect crispiness. If you’re gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend. I’ve tried almond flour, too, and it gives a unique taste and texture!
Soya Sauce: Basic soy sauce adds saltiness and umami. For a gluten-free alternative, tamari is a great swap. Coconut aminos also work if you want a soy-free option with a mild sweetness.
Maple Syrup or Honey: I love using maple syrup for its rich taste, but honey will also add a nice sweetness. If you’re looking to cut back on sugar, try using a sugar substitute like agave syrup.
Hoisin Sauce: This adds a deeper flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can skip it without losing too much. It’s still tasty! Alternatively, try a bit of peanut butter mixed with soy sauce for a similar effect.
How Do I Get the Cauliflower Perfectly Crispy?
Getting crispy cauliflower is all about the batter and cooking method. Here’s how to ensure a satisfying crunch:
- Coat the florets evenly in the batter—this traps air and creates crispiness. Don’t skip this step!
- Fry in batches if needed, giving the florets space. Overcrowding will lead to soggy cauliflower.
- If baking, spray the florets with cooking oil before placing them in the oven. This helps them crisp up nicely!
- Flip at least once halfway through baking, so every side gets that golden-brown color.
Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for GF option)
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for deeper flavor)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- Sesame seeds (both white and black), for garnish
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 20-25 minutes for cooking, whether you choose to fry or bake the cauliflower. So, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in about 40-45 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven or Skillet:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If you’re opting to fry, get your skillet ready by adding vegetable oil to it. You want enough oil to coat the bottom of the skillet.
2. Make the Batter:
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, water, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the batter is smooth and lump-free. This mixture will help the cauliflower get that delicious crispy texture.
3. Coat the Cauliflower:
Take each cauliflower floret and dip it into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated. This step is crucial for that crunchy outer layer. Let any excess batter drip off before cooking.
4. Cook the Cauliflower:
If you’re frying, heat the oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the cauliflower florets and fry until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Once done, transfer them to paper towels to drain any excess oil. If you prefer baking, place the coated florets on your lined baking sheet, spray them lightly with oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they are crispy all over.
5. Make the Sticky Sesame Sauce:
While your cauliflower is cooking, let’s create the sauce! In a small saucepan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about a minute until fragrant.
6. Combine the Sauce Ingredients:
Now, pour in the soy sauce, maple syrup (or honey), rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will combine the flavors beautifully!
7. Thicken the Sauce:
To get that nice sticky texture, stir in the cornstarch slurry. Keep stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to your liking. Once thickened, remove it from the heat.
8. Toss and Serve:
Carefully toss the cooked cauliflower in the sticky sauce until each piece is well coated. Then, serve it over a bed of your favorite cooked rice. Finish with a sprinkle of white and black sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a lovely garnish.
Enjoy your flavorful, crispy, and sticky sesame cauliflower! Perfect as a main dish or a tasty side. Bon appétit!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! However, be sure to thaw and drain it completely before coating it in the batter. Pat the florets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which can prevent them from getting crispy.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain moisture. You can also reheat them in the microwave.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and cauliflower in advance, then cover and refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to serve, you can cook the cauliflower whenever suits you, mixing it with the sauce just before serving for the best texture.
What Can I Add to Customize the Dish?
Feel free to customize this dish by adding vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to the frying or baking process. You can also toss in some cooked protein, such as chicken or tofu, for a heartier meal!
