Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Crispy, crunchy, spicy, and sweet, the Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is the ultimate Asian-inspired dish that tantalizes your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a delightful side or a main course, this recipe suits various occasions, from casual dinners to special gatherings. Its standout feature is the perfect balance of flavors combined with its irresistible crunchiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, and garlic creates an incredible taste experience.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in under an hour.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as an appetizer at parties.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious cauliflower and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the Sriracha levels to suit your spice preference.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable. Gather these essential items before starting your Sticky Sesame Cauliflower.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and crispiness for your cauliflower.
• Mixing bowl: Allows easy blending of ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter for coating the cauliflower.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Sticky Sesame Cauliflower:

For the Cauliflower Coating

• 1 medium Cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1/3 cup Rice flour
• 1 tbsp Cornstarch
• 1 tsp oil
• 1/2 tsp Garlic powder, optional
• 1/3 – 1/4 cup Water

For the Sauce

• 1.5 tbsp Sesame oil
• 1/4 cup Light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Rice apple vinegar
• 1-2 tbsp Sriracha Sauce, adjust to taste
• 1 Fresh ginger, finely minced
• 4-5 cloves Fresh garlic, finely minced
• 2-3 tbsp Honey or maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp Cornstarch
• 1/4 cup Water

For Garnish

• Sesame seeds
• Spring onions, sliced
• Sliced Chillis

How to Make Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour, cornstarch, garlic powder (if using), and water. Whisk until smooth.

Step 2: Coat the Cauliflower

Add the cauliflower florets to the batter and ensure they are evenly coated. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with oil before placing in the oven.

Step 3: Bake Until Crispy

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Be sure to flip halfway through for even browning.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While the cauliflower bakes, prepare your sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sesame oil, light soy sauce, rice apple vinegar, Sriracha sauce, minced ginger, and garlic. Stir well.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth. Gradually add it to your saucepan while stirring continuously until thickened.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once the cauliflower is done baking, remove it from the oven. Pour your sticky sauce over it and toss gently to coat evenly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Transfer your Sticky Sesame Cauliflower to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced spring onions, and sliced chilis for an added kick! Enjoy this dish hot for maximum flavor!

How to Serve Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, these suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it over steamed rice for a hearty meal that balances the sweet and spicy flavors.
• Pair it with quinoa for a healthy alternative that adds protein and fiber.

With Noodles

• Toss it with soba noodles for an Asian-inspired twist. The noodles soak up the sticky sauce perfectly.
• Combine with rice noodles and fresh vegetables for a light yet filling meal option.

In Wraps or Tacos

• Use sticky sesame cauliflower as a filling in lettuce wraps for a fresh and crunchy texture.
• Serve in corn tortillas with avocado and cilantro for a unique taco night experience.

As an Appetizer

• Present it on skewers as finger food at parties, allowing guests to enjoy them easily.
• Offer it alongside dipping sauces like extra Sriracha or hoisin sauce for added flavor.

How to Perfect Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Creating the perfect Sticky Sesame Cauliflower requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose Fresh Cauliflower: Opt for firm, white florets without any spots. Fresh cauliflower ensures better texture and taste.
• Use High-Quality Soy Sauce: A good soy sauce enhances the umami flavor of the dish. Consider low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the amount of Sriracha based on your preference for heat. Start with less and add more gradually.
• Crisp It Up: Bake until golden brown for extra crunch. A higher baking temperature will help achieve that crispy texture you desire.
• Marinate Before Baking: Allowing cauliflower to marinate in the sauce enhances its flavor. Even 15 minutes can make a difference!
• Garnish Generously: Finish with sesame seeds, spring onions, and sliced chilies for added flavor and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower pairs well with various sides that complement its flavors. Here are some delightful options to serve alongside.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and balances the sweetness of the dish.
2. Fried Rice: A savory fried rice with peas and carrots makes an excellent companion that completes the meal.
3. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing provides freshness and texture.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting starter before enjoying your main dish.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad offers coolness against the spiciness of the sticky cauliflower.
6. Sautéed Bok Choy: Quick sautéed bok choy brings an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with Asian dishes.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn adds a touch of summer taste, balancing out flavors nicely.
8. Garlic Naan: Soft garlic naan is perfect for scooping up sticky cauliflower bits, making every bite enjoyable!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sticky Sesame Cauliflower, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the cornstarch: Cornstarch helps create that crispy texture. Don’t skip it; use it in both the batter and the sauce for best results.

• Overcrowding the baking tray: If you place too many florets on one tray, they will steam instead of crisping up. Give them space to breathe for that perfect crunch.

• Not adjusting spice levels: Each palate is different. Make sure to taste the sauce and adjust Sriracha according to your heat preference before cooking.

• Using too much water: Adding excessive water can lead to a soggy batter. Follow the measurements closely and add just enough to coat the cauliflower evenly.

• Ignoring fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance flavor significantly. Don’t substitute with powdered versions if you want authentic taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish covered with a lid. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking for warmth, though this may result in less crispiness.

• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Stir-fry until hot and crispy, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sticky Sesame Cauliflower?

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a flavorful dish made from cauliflower florets coated in a sweet and spicy sesame sauce, then baked for a crunchy texture.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a completely vegan option in the Sticky Sesame Cauliflower recipe.

How do I make Sticky Sesame Cauliflower gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

Can I customize the spice level in Sticky Sesame Cauliflower?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of Sriracha or even add other spices like cayenne pepper based on your personal preference.

How long does it take to prepare Sticky Sesame Cauliflower?

The total time from prep to cook is approximately 50 minutes, making it an easy dish for any weeknight dinner.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding more vegetables or adjusting flavors based on what you have at home. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or main course, ensuring satisfaction with every bite. Try it today for a delightful meal!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Sticky Sesame Cauliflower, a vibrant dish that combines crispy cauliflower florets with a sweet and spicy sesame sauce. This Asian-inspired recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether as an enticing appetizer or a satisfying main course. With its harmonious blend of savory and sweet notes, every bite offers a tantalizing crunch that will keep you coming back for more. Easy to prepare and adaptable to your taste preferences, this dish will impress your family and friends alike.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 medium cauliflower (cut into florets)
• 1/3 cup rice flour
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1.5 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/4 cup light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice apple vinegar
• 1–2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
• 2–3 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• Fresh ginger (minced)
• Fresh garlic (minced)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Spring onions (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together rice flour, cornstarch, garlic powder (if using), and enough water to create a smooth batter.
3. Coat the cauliflower florets in the batter, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with oil.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce by combining sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, Sriracha, minced ginger, and garlic in a saucepan over medium heat.
6. Thicken the sauce by mixing cornstarch with water and adding it gradually while stirring until it reaches your desired consistency.
7. Once baked, toss the cauliflower in the sticky sauce until well coated.
8. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced spring onions.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 195
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg