This Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a fun and tasty dish that’s perfect for veggies lovers! Crispy cauliflower is coated in a sweet-sesame sauce that makes every bite exciting.
Honestly, this dish has me saying, “Who needs takeout?” The sauce is so good, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything! I love serving it with rice for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: This is the star ingredient! Choose a fresh head with tight florets for the best taste. You can also use frozen cauliflower if fresh isn’t available; just adjust the cooking time.
Honey/Maple Syrup: Honey lends a nice sweetness, but if you’re vegan, use maple syrup. It’s a great substitute that provides a similar flavor.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce works well, but if you need a gluten-free option, go for tamari or coconut aminos. Both will keep the umami flavor intact.
Sesame Oil: This adds a rich, nutty taste to the dish. If you don’t have it, a neutral oil with a splash of sesame seeds can mimic the flavor.
How Can I Get Crispy Cauliflower?
To achieve that perfect crispiness, follow these tips while frying. Start with the oil at the right temperature; it should sizzle when you add the batter-dipped cauliflower. Fry in batches, giving each piece enough space to cook evenly.
- Use fresh batter for each batch to ensure a light and crispy coating.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this can lower the oil temperature and lead to sogginess.
- Drain the fried cauliflower on paper towels immediately to remove excess oil.
Take your time during frying; rushing may not yield that golden texture you’re after!
Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cauliflower:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
For Garnish:
- Sesame seeds (white and/or black)
- Chopped green onions or chives
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to cook. So, you can have your sticky sesame cauliflower ready in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Batter:
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, water, salt, and black pepper until you have a smooth batter. It should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but not too thick that it doesn’t a spread evenly. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
Take the cauliflower florets and dip them into the batter, making sure each piece is fully coated. Let any excess batter drip off. This is what gives the cauliflower that lovely crispy texture!
3. Get Ready to Fry:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat enough vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough that the cauliflower sizzles when you add it but not so hot that it smokes!
4. Fry the Cauliflower:
Carefully add the battered cauliflower florets in batches to the hot oil. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, drain them on paper towels to remove any extra oil.
5. Make the Sticky Sauce:
In a separate pan, combine the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Heat this over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Slowly stir in the cornstarch-water slurry and continue to cook the sauce until it thickens and becomes sticky, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This is where the magic happens!
7. Combine and Coat:
Once your sauce is ready, take the crispy cauliflower and add it to the sauce. Toss everything together until the cauliflower is evenly coated with that delicious sticky goodness.
8. Serve:
Serve your sticky sesame cauliflower over a bed of cooked white rice for a complete meal. It’s all about that combination!
9. Garnish:
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions or chives to finish it off. Your dish is now as beautiful as it is tasty!
10. Enjoy!
Take a moment to admire your creation before digging in. Enjoy your flavorful and crispy sticky sesame cauliflower!
FAQ about Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before battering to avoid excess moisture. Labeling the frying time may vary slightly, but it should be crispy and delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
Absolutely! You can bake the battered cauliflower instead of frying for a lighter option. Simply preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), place the battered cauliflower on a lined baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cauliflower may lose some crispiness when reheated, but you can pop it back in the oven for a few minutes to restore some crunch!
What Can I Serve with Sticky Sesame Cauliflower?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles. Add a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the meal and make it even more satisfying!
