Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Recipe
Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a delicious, crispy baked cauliflower recipe coated in a flavorful sticky sesame sauce. Perfect as a vegan appetizer or side dish, it combines a crunchy texture with a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy glaze, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
- Author: Lily
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Baking and stove-top simmering
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Vegan
Cauliflower
- 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
Sauce
- 1.5 tbsp Sesame oil
- 1/4 cup Light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Rice wine vinegar
- 1–2 tbsp Sriracha Sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 inch 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
- Preheat and Prepare Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking tray with foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Make the Batter: In a small bowl, whisk together rice flour, cornstarch, oil, garlic powder (if using), and water until you achieve a smooth, thick batter. This will coat the cauliflower evenly.
- Coat Cauliflower: Toss the cauliflower florets in the batter until fully coated. Arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking tray to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Bake Cauliflower: Bake the coated cauliflower for 20-25 minutes at 200°C (392°F), until they are just cooked but still retain a crunchy texture. Avoid overcooking to keep that perfect bite.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the cauliflower bakes, combine sesame oil, light soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sriracha sauce, minced ginger, and minced garlic in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5-6 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Thicken the Sauce: Whisk together cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Add this to the simmering sauce and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency. Remove from heat and mix in honey (or maple syrup). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the baked cauliflower in the sticky sesame sauce until well coated. Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced spring onions, and sliced chilies if desired. Serve immediately for best taste and texture. Enjoy your Sticky Sesame Cauliflower!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the cauliflower for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Adjust sriracha to control heat level; omit for a mild version.
- Use maple syrup as a vegan alternative to honey.
- Serve with steamed rice or in a lettuce wrap for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Sticky Sesame Cauliflower, Vegan Appetizer, Baked Cauliflower, Asian Cauliflower Recipe, Spicy Cauliflower, Healthy Cauliflower Dish