This Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a tasty treat! Crispy cauliflower bites are covered in a sweet and nutty sesame sauce that makes them hard to resist.
Honestly, these bites make veggies feel like a reward! I love serving them over rice for a filling meal. Even my non-veggie friends can’t get enough! 🥢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower is key! It holds up really well when fried. If you can’t find cauliflower, you could use broccoli or even tofu for a similar texture.
Flour and Cornstarch: All-purpose flour and cornstarch create a crispy coating. You can use gluten-free flour or chickpea flour as an alternative if needed.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both provide sweetness. Feel free to use agave syrup or a sugar substitute like stevia if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option.
Soy Sauce: It adds a salty, umami flavor. If you need a low-sodium option, look for reduced-sodium soy sauce or tamari. Coconut aminos are another great alternative for a slightly sweeter flavor.
How Can I Fry Cauliflower Perfectly?
Frying can seem daunting, but it’s really all about the heat and timing! Here’s how to get that golden crispy cauliflower:
- Use a thermometer to heat your oil to about 350°F (175°C). Too low, and the cauliflower will soak up oil; too high, and it’ll burn.
- Fry in small batches, so you don’t crowd the pan. This keeps the temperature consistent, ensuring each piece gets crispy.
- Turn the cauliflower occasionally, so it browns evenly on all sides. A slotted spoon really helps to lift them out without the excess oil.
Now you’re set for fantastic, crispy cauliflower every time! Enjoy your cooking! 🌱
Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 cup water (plus more if needed)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- Sesame seeds (white and black) for garnish
- Chopped green onions or chives for garnish
- Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower will take about 30-35 minutes overall. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes preparing and frying the cauliflower and another 10-15 minutes making the sauce and garnishing. It’s quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and garlic powder. Gradually add the water while whisking until you have a smooth batter. It should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more water to get the right consistency.
2. Coat and Fry the Cauliflower:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat (about 350°F/175°C). Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting the excess drip off. Carefully place them into the hot oil. Fry in batches, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy, typically about 4-6 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Sticky Sesame Sauce:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix together the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Bring this mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry (the cornstarch mixed with water) to the saucepan. Continue stirring for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens into a sticky glaze. Once it’s thickened, remove it from heat.
5. Toss Cauliflower in Sauce:
Place the fried cauliflower into a large bowl. Pour the sticky sesame sauce over them and gently toss to make sure each piece is well coated.
6. Serve:
Serve your sticky sesame cauliflower over cooked rice. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and some chopped green onions or chives for a fresh touch.
Enjoy this delicious vegetarian dish that’s perfect as a main or side! It’s sure to please everyone at the table!
FAQ: Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before coating them with the batter. This will help achieve that crispy texture!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use tamari in place of soy sauce. Make sure to check the labels of any other ingredients for gluten-free options.
What Can I Do with Leftover Sticky Sesame Cauliflower?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in an air fryer or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to crisp them back up!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! You can toss in some broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots along with the cauliflower for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to keep the cooking times in check so everything cooks evenly!
