This Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a tasty treat! Crispy cauliflower is tossed in a sweet and sticky sesame sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: This is the star of the dish! Choose a medium head of cauliflower that’s firm and free of dark spots. If cauliflower isn’t available, you can substitute with broccoli or even chickpeas for a different texture.
Flour: All-purpose flour works great for the batter. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, chickpea flour creates a similar texture and adds a bit of extra flavor. Some also prefer using rice flour for a lighter batter.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Sweetness is key! I love using honey, but maple syrup is a great vegan alternative. You can also try agave syrup which has a milder flavor.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger and minced garlic bring a punch of flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use garlic powder and ground ginger, but fresh is always tastier!
How Do I Get the Cauliflower Crispy?
Achieving that perfect crispy texture starts with the batter. Here are a few tips:
- Ensure the batter is smooth and coats the cauliflower well. You want a thick enough layer without excess dripping off.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying. Fry in batches to allow hot oil to circulate around each piece.
- Keep the oil hot. Let it reheat between batches for a consistently crispy finish.
Finally, draining the fried cauliflower on paper towels helps keep it from getting soggy, ensuring you have a delightful crunch with every bite!
Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 3 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (white and black mixed)
- 2 green onions, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total: 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and batter, and about 20 minutes for frying and cooking the sauce. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but delicious enough for a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Create the Batter:
Begin by whisking together the flour, water, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. It should have a nice thick consistency that will cling to the cauliflower.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter so that it is fully coated. Make sure they are well-covered for a crispy texture once fried!
3. Fry the Cauliflower:
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully fry the battered cauliflower in batches. Fry each batch for about 4-5 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are golden and crispy. Once done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
4. Make the Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, combine the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Heat this mixture over medium heat until it starts to bubble.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the bubbling sauce. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes until the sauce thickens to a sticky consistency. This is what will make the cauliflower beautifully coated!
6. Toss it All Together:
Gently add the fried cauliflower to the saucepan with the sticky sauce. Toss everything together until all the florets are well-coated in the tasty sauce.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the sticky sesame cauliflower over a bed of steamed rice. For an added touch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and cilantro on top.
8. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy this scrumptious dish warm as a delightful appetizer or as a side for your main course!
This recipe delivers a wonderful combination of crispy, sticky cauliflower with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture. Patting it dry with paper towels will help achieve a crispier texture when frying.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat for the best texture, adding a splash of water or sauce if needed to revive it.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup for a vegan-friendly version. The rest of the ingredients are already plant-based, making it perfect for a vegan meal!
What Can I Serve With Sticky Sesame Cauliflower?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles. You can also serve it alongside a simple salad or some stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal!
