Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Delight is a deliciously crispy and flavorful vegetarian dish that’s perfect for both plant-based eaters and those looking for a tasty snack or appetizer. The cauliflower florets are coated in a crisp, golden batter, then drizzled with a savory, sweet sesame sauce. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, with a subtle kick from the sesame oil. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup water
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sesame seeds
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the water to the dry ingredients and whisk until smooth. You should have a slightly thick batter.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure it’s evenly coated, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
While the cauliflower is baking, prepare the sauce: in a small saucepan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds. Stir the mixture and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Once the cauliflower is done, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Pour the sesame sauce over the cauliflower and toss gently to coat.
Garnish with chopped green onions and extra sesame seeds, if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
Baked with a Twist: For an even crispier texture, try air frying the battered cauliflower instead of baking it.
Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free.
Add Nuts: Add crushed peanuts or cashews to the sauce for an extra crunch and depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Sticky Sesame Cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until crispy again.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before battering and baking.

2. How do I make the sauce less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup and add a bit more soy sauce for a savory flavor.

3. Can I air fry the cauliflower instead of baking it?

Yes, you can air fry the battered cauliflower at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

4. Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with rice flour or chickpea flour for a different texture and flavor.

5. How do I make the cauliflower extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispiness, ensure the cauliflower is coated evenly with the batter and spread out on the baking sheet without overcrowding. You can also air fry the cauliflower for a crispier texture.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

7. How long will the leftovers keep?

The leftovers will keep for up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator. The cauliflower will lose some of its crispiness, but it will still be flavorful.

8. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the cauliflower and batter in advance, then refrigerate it before baking. Prepare the sauce fresh before serving for the best flavor.

9. Can I use a different oil for the sauce?

You can use olive oil or vegetable oil in place of sesame oil, but sesame oil will give the sauce its distinctive flavor.

10. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, mix in some sriracha, chili paste, or red pepper flakes into the sesame sauce.

Conclusion

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Delight is a wonderfully satisfying dish with a perfect balance of crispy texture and savory-sweet flavors. It’s an excellent choice for a quick meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, and with various ways to tweak the recipe, it’s versatile to suit your taste. Whether you’re craving a healthy vegetarian snack or looking for something special to serve at a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress!