This Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a fun twist on a veggie dish! It’s crispy, sweet, and packed with flavor from sesame seeds and a tasty glaze.
Plus, it’s quick to make, so you’ll want to whip it up for lunch or a side for dinner. I love how it makes veggies feel like a treat—who knew cauliflower could be this exciting? 🥦✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower is the star here. You can also use frozen cauliflower; just thaw it beforehand. If cauliflower isn’t available, broccoli can be a great swap for a different flavor and texture.
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard for the batter. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, use a mix of gluten-free flour or even cornstarch for a light coating.
Honey or Maple Syrup: I love using honey for its sweetness, but you can easily substitute maple syrup for a vegan option. It works just as well and adds a unique flavor.
Sriracha: This is optional for a spicy kick! If you’re not a fan of heat, feel free to leave it out. You can also use a dash of chili flakes for mild spice.
What’s the Best Way to Get Crispy Cauliflower?
Getting that perfect crispiness is key to this recipe. Here’s how to make sure your cauliflower is crunchy and delicious:
- Make a thick batter. A good batter will cling to the florets. Don’t worry if it seems a bit lumpy!
- Use enough oil. Heat up enough oil in your skillet—around 1-2 inches deep will work well for frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in small batches to keep the heat up and help them cook evenly.
- Drain properly. Let them sit on paper towels to absorb excess oil after frying.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve beautifully crispy cauliflower that pairs perfectly with the sticky sauce!
Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sriracha or other hot sauce (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (white and black mixed)
- 1-2 green onions, finely chopped
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and about 10-15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy addition to any meal. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a fun weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Batter:
Start by whisking together the flour, water, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl until smooth. This mixture will be your batter for the cauliflower, giving it a nice coating!
2. Coat the Cauliflower:
Take each piece of cauliflower and dip it into the batter. Make sure each floret is completely coated for maximum crunchiness when frying.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). You want enough oil to allow the cauliflower to float slightly while frying.
4. Fry the Cauliflower:
Carefully place the battered cauliflower florets into the hot oil in small batches. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
5. Make the Sauce:
In another saucepan, combine the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, minced garlic, and sriracha if you want some heat. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Once simmering, stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and has a shiny finish.
7. Combine Cauliflower and Sauce:
Toss the crispy fried cauliflower in the sticky sesame sauce, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated and deliciously sticky.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the cauliflower in bowls over steamed rice. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Add fresh cilantro on top if you’d like for extra flavor!
Enjoy your crispy, sticky, and flavorful sesame cauliflower!
FAQ about Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen cauliflower, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before dipping it in the batter.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free all-purpose flour and tamari instead of soy sauce. Just ensure that all your ingredients are labeled gluten-free!
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup works perfectly as a substitute for honey. It adds a nice depth of flavor to the sauce without altering the overall taste.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sticky sesame cauliflower in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. The cauliflower may lose some crispiness, but it will still taste delicious!
