This Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a delicious, sweet, and savory dish that’s hard to resist. The crispy cauliflower is coated in a delightful sesame sauce that everyone will love!
Trust me, it’s perfect as a side or even as a tasty snack. I often make a big batch and enjoy it while binge-watching my favorite shows—what’s not to love? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: The star of this dish! Search for a fresh, firm head. If cauliflower isn’t your favorite, broccoli can be a good substitute. It’s also loaded with nutrients.
Flour: I’m using all-purpose flour for a crispy batter. You could swap in gluten-free flour if needed. Just check the ratios for the best results.
Cornstarch: This ingredient adds extra crunch. For a variation, consider arrowroot powder, which works just as well in the batter.
Soy Sauce: I like low-sodium soy sauce to keep things balanced. If you’re watching your sodium intake, tamari is a great gluten-free option, while coconut aminos can offer a sweeter taste.
Honey or Maple Syrup: I typically use honey for its sweetness, but maple syrup makes this dish vegan-friendly! Agave syrup is another alternative if you need a different flavor profile.
How Can I Make the Cauliflower Extra Crispy?
The key to crispy cauliflower lies in the coating and frying technique. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying—around 350°F (175°C) is perfect!
- Don’t skip the cornstarch in the batter; it’s essential for that delightful crunch.
- Fry in smaller batches. Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature and makes for soggy cauliflower.
- Let the fried pieces drain on paper towels to get rid of excess oil before adding the sauce.
Following these tips will ensure your cauliflower comes out crispy and delicious every time!
Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Sticky Sesame Sauce:
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 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 Garnish:
- Toasted white sesame seeds
- Toasted black sesame seeds (optional)
- Chopped green onions or fresh cilantro (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 20 minutes of prep time and around 10-15 minutes for frying and making the sauce. So, you’re looking at approximately 30-35 minutes total from start to finish! Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and water until you have a smooth batter. This will help the cauliflower become crispy when fried.
2. Heat the Oil:
In a deep frying pan or pot, heat enough vegetable oil over medium-high heat to reach 350°F (175°C). You want enough oil for the cauliflower to float while frying.
3. Fry the Cauliflower:
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Carefully drop the battered florets into the hot oil, frying in small batches to avoid overcrowding. This will result in crispier cauliflower!
4. Drain the Cauliflower:
Fry the cauliflower for about 4-5 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil, and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
5. Make the Sticky Sesame Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, mix the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook over medium heat and bring it to a gentle boil.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the saucepan and stir constantly. Cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, which should only take a few minutes.
7. Combine Cauliflower and Sauce:
In a large bowl, toss the fried cauliflower pieces with the sticky sesame sauce until they are evenly coated.
8. Serve:
Dish out the sticky sesame cauliflower over steamed white rice or noodles for a delightful meal.
9. Garnish:
Sprinkle with toasted white and black sesame seeds, and add chopped green onions or cilantro for an extra pop of flavor and color!
Enjoy!
Your easy sticky sesame cauliflower is ready to be enjoyed! It’s crispy, sweet, and savory with that delightful sesame touch—perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun snack!
FAQ for Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but it’s best to thaw it first and pat it dry to remove excess moisture. This ensures the batter adheres better and keeps the cauliflower crispy when fried.
What Can I Substitute for Honey in the Sauce?
If you prefer a vegan option or don’t have honey on hand, maple syrup is a great substitute. You could also use agave syrup, which offers a similar sweetness!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sticky sesame cauliflower in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. You might want to add a little splash of water or oil to help revive the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use tamari in place of soy sauce. This will help maintain the flavor and texture without the gluten!
