Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Crispy, crunchy, spicy, and sweet, the Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a delightful dish that brings the essence of Asian cuisine right to your table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe showcases the unique flavors of sesame oil and fresh garlic. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main course, you’ll find that this dish leaves you satisfied and craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can create this delicious meal.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet honey and spicy Sriracha creates a mouthwatering balance that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course; it fits any occasion effortlessly.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutritious cauliflower and wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for plant-based eaters, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin creating your Sticky Sesame Cauliflower, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting the cauliflower to achieve that crispy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess; they allow you to mix sauces thoroughly.
• Whisk: A handy tool for blending liquids smoothly, ensuring all flavors are well incorporated.
• Knife: Necessary for chopping garlic and ginger finely to unleash their full flavor.

Ingredients

To make your Sticky Sesame Cauliflower, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cauliflower Coating

• 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

For the Sauce

• 1.5 tbsp Sesame oil
• 1/4 cup Light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Rice apple vinegar
• 1-2 tbsp Sriracha Sauce, adjust to taste (you can add more if you prefer more heat)
• 1 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

For Garnish

• Sesame seeds
• Spring onions, sliced
• Sliced Chilis

How to Make Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, wash your cauliflower and cut it into bite-sized florets.

Step 2: Make the Coating

In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour, cornstarch, garlic powder (if using), and water until you have a smooth batter. Toss in the cauliflower florets until they’re fully coated.

Step 3: Bake the Cauliflower

Spread the coated florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with oil and bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While your cauliflower is baking, whisk together sesame oil, light soy sauce, rice apple vinegar, Sriracha sauce, minced ginger, minced garlic, honey/maple syrup, cornstarch, and water in another bowl until well mixed.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once baked cauliflower is ready, remove it from the oven. Toss it in the prepared sauce until evenly coated. Return to oven for an additional 5 minutes if desired. Finally, garnish with sesame seeds, spring onions, and sliced chilis before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Sticky Sesame Cauliflower!

How to Serve Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Serving Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some ideas to elevate your dish and impress your guests.

With Steamed Rice

• Serve over fluffy steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a comforting meal. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.

As a Salad Topper

• Use Sticky Sesame Cauliflower as a topping for mixed greens or coleslaw. The crunchiness adds texture while the flavors complement the freshness of the salad.

In Tacos

• Fill soft corn or flour tortillas with cauliflower and add fresh veggies. Top with avocado and cilantro for a tasty fusion dish.

With Noodles

• Toss it with cooked soba or rice noodles. This creates a hearty, satisfying meal that’s full of flavor.

How to Perfect Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

To achieve perfect Sticky Sesame Cauliflower, follow these essential tips that ensure great taste and texture.

• Choose Fresh Cauliflower – Select firm, white florets without blemishes for the best results.
• Adjust the Spice Level – Modify Sriracha according to your heat preference; taste before adding more.
• Coat Evenly – Ensure each cauliflower floret is well-coated in the batter for an even crispy texture.
• Bake at High Temperature – Baking at 425°F (220°C) helps to achieve that desired crispiness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Space out the florets on the baking sheet to allow proper air circulation and prevent steaming.
• Garnish Generously – Add sesame seeds, sliced chilies, and spring onions right before serving for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Pairing Sticky Sesame Cauliflower with the right sides can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent side dish options.

1. Steamed Broccoli – A simple yet nutritious addition that complements the flavors of the cauliflower.
2. Fried Rice – Savory fried rice with peas and carrots adds heartiness to your meal.
3. Crispy Spring Rolls – These crunchy delights bring an additional layer of texture to your dinner plate.
4. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup offers a soothing contrast to the spicy cauliflower.
5. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers and bell peppers makes for a healthy side option.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Their earthy flavor pairs well with the sweetness of sticky sesame sauce.
7. Pickled Vegetables – Tangy pickles provide a nice contrast to the dish’s sweetness, enhancing overall flavors.
8. Garlic Naan – Soft naan bread is perfect for scooping up sticky cauliflower and enjoying every bite!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sticky Sesame Cauliflower, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure a delicious dish every time.

• Neglecting the Cauliflower Size: Cutting cauliflower florets too large can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for uniform pieces for consistent crispiness.
• Skipping the Cornstarch Coating: Forgetting to coat the cauliflower with cornstarch may result in soggy bites. This coating helps achieve that desirable crunch.
• Overlooking the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for the cauliflower to marinate can diminish flavor. Aim for at least 15 minutes for full taste absorption.
• Using High Heat Too Early: Jumping straight into high heat can burn the sauce before it thickens. Start with medium heat and adjust as needed for best results.
• Ignoring Serving Suggestions: Serving without garnishes like sesame seeds or spring onions misses out on texture and flavor. Always finish your dish with these toppings for a vibrant presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep moisture out and maintain freshness.

Freezing Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

• Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread cauliflower on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm. Note that this method may soften the cauliflower.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method helps retain some crunchiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sticky Sesame Cauliflower?

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a flavorful dish featuring crispy cauliflower coated in a sweet and savory sesame sauce, making it an excellent vegetarian option.

How do I make Sticky Sesame Cauliflower vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

While fresh cauliflower yields the best texture, you can use frozen if thawed and dried well before coating. Keep an eye on cooking time as it may vary.

What can I serve with Sticky Sesame Cauliflower?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. Feel free to add stir-fried vegetables for extra nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is not just delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize it by adjusting the level of spice or adding more veggies. It’s perfect as a main dish or side, making it a fantastic choice for any meal. Try this recipe today and enjoy its delightful flavors!

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Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances crispy texture with sweet and spicy flavors, bringing the essence of Asian cuisine to your table. This vegan-friendly recipe is easy to prepare using simple ingredients like fresh cauliflower, sesame oil, and garlic. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish, appetizer, or main course, Sticky Sesame Cauliflower promises to satisfy your cravings while being a guilt-free indulgence. With its delightful sauce made from honey or maple syrup and Sriracha, this dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Experience the irresistible crunch and flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more!

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Ingredients

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• 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1/3 cup rice flour
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1.5 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/4 cup light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice apple vinegar
• 1–2 tbsp Sriracha sauce (to taste)
• 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 2–3 tbsp honey or maple syrup

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour, cornstarch, and water until smooth. Toss the cauliflower in the batter until well-coated.
3. Spread coated florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with oil. Bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
4. While baking, whisk together sesame oil, light soy sauce, rice apple vinegar, Sriracha sauce, minced garlic, honey/maple syrup, cornstarch, and water in another bowl.
5. Once baked, toss the cauliflower in the prepared sauce until evenly coated. Optionally return to oven for an additional 5 minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and spring onions before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish/Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg