This Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a tasty twist on veggies! Crispy cauliflower bites are coated in a sweet and sticky sesame sauce that’s simply irresistible.
I love how quick it comes together—just roast the cauliflower, mix the sauce, and enjoy! It’s perfect as a side dish or a fun snack. Plus, who doesn’t like a little crunch? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Fresh is ideal, but frozen cauliflower can work too! Just thaw and pat dry. Cauliflower is great for absorbing flavors, so don’t skip this veggie.
Flour: All-purpose flour is a winner here, but if you’re gluten-free, you could use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for a lighter batter.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and umami. If you’re avoiding soy, try tamari or coconut aminos for a similar taste. For a low-sodium option, go for low-sodium soy sauce.
Honey/Maple Syrup: Honey gives a great sweetness, but maple syrup works well too for a vegan alternative. You could even use agave if that’s what you have on hand.
Hoisin Sauce: This is optional, but it adds a nice depth. If you’re out, try using a dash more soy sauce or a mix of peanut butter and soy for a unique twist.
How Do I Ensure My Cauliflower is Perfectly Crispy?
Roasting the cauliflower well is the key to getting that crispy texture! Here are some tips:
- Make sure the florets are evenly coated in batter, but not too thick, which can lead to sogginess.
- Spread them out on the baking sheet without crowding. This allows hot air to circulate, helping them crisp up nicely.
- Flip the florets halfway through roasting for an even golden color.
These steps help all sides of the cauliflower get that delicious, crunchy finish you’ll love!
How to Make Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (plus extra for frying)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for extra depth)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (white and/or black)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
From start to finish, you’ll need about 35-40 minutes. This includes 10 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes of roasting time. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight meal or a tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
2. Make the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the flour, water, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth batter. This will coat your cauliflower and give it a delicious crunch.
3. Coat the Cauliflower
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring each piece is well-coated. After that, place them on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. It’s important not to crowd them to get that nice crispiness!
4. Roast the Cauliflower
Lightly drizzle a tablespoon of vegetable oil over the battered cauliflower florets. This will help them fry up nice and crispy in the oven. Roast them in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through so they get golden and crispy all over.
5. Make the Sticky Sauce
While the cauliflower is roasting, let’s whip up the sticky sesame sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir this all together until it’s heated through and combined.
6. Thicken the Sauce
To thicken the sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. This sticky goodness will coat the cauliflower beautifully!
7. Combine & Serve
Once the cauliflower is done roasting, transfer the florets to a large bowl. Pour the sticky sesame sauce over them and toss gently to coat each piece evenly. This is where the magic happens!
8. Garnish and Enjoy!
Finally, sprinkle the coated cauliflower with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm over cooked rice. Enjoy your crispy, sticky, and flavorful Sesame Cauliflower!
Happy cooking! 🌟
FAQ for Easy Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just ensure it’s fully thawed and dried off before coating it in the batter. This will help achieve that delicious crispy texture.
What Can I Substitute for Hoisin Sauce?
If you don’t have hoisin sauce, you can skip it or substitute it with a mix of soy sauce and a bit of peanut butter for a similar flavor profile. It adds a nice depth to the sauce!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sticky sesame cauliflower in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave for the best texture. You may need to add a splash of water to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce. Adjust to your taste for the perfect spicy kick!
