Crispy, crunchy, spicy, and sweet, the Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a delightful dish that brings bold Asian flavors to your table. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress. With its unique combination of textures and tastes, it’s not just a meal but an experience that leaves you satisfied and wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Flavorful: The blend of sesame oil, ginger, and garlic creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish; it pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles.
• Health-Conscious: Packed with nutrients from cauliflower and low in calories, this dish fits well into various diet plans.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the Sriracha sauce to suit your preference for spice—make it mild or fiery!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience effortless, gather the essential tools before starting. Having the right equipment at hand ensures smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and crispiness when roasting the cauliflower.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients efficiently without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly mixing the dry and wet ingredients.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Battered 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

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
• 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

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds
• Spring onions, sliced
• Sliced Chilis

How to Make Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour, cornstarch, garlic powder (if using), and water. Stir until you achieve a smooth batter.
2. Toss the cauliflower florets in the batter until evenly coated.

Step 2: Bake the Cauliflower

Spread the battered cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer.

1. Bake for about 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Flip halfway through for even cooking.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

While the cauliflower is baking:

1. In another mixing bowl, combine sesame oil, light soy sauce, rice apple vinegar, Sriracha sauce, minced ginger, minced garlic, honey (or maple syrup), cornstarch, and water.
2. Whisk together until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once the cauliflower is done baking:

1. Remove from oven and drizzle with prepared sauce while still hot.
2. Toss gently to coat all pieces in sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Transfer to a serving platter and finish with your choice of sesame seeds, spring onions, and sliced chilis for an extra kick!

Enjoy your Sticky Sesame Cauliflower warm as a satisfying main dish or flavorful side!

How to Serve Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a main dish or as part of a larger meal, this flavorful cauliflower will delight your taste buds.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it hot over steamed rice or quinoa for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Pair with a side of stir-fried vegetables to add color and nutrition to your plate.

As an Appetizer

• Offer as bite-sized pieces at gatherings, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced chilies for an attractive presentation.
• Serve with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and Sriracha for an extra kick.

In Tacos or Wraps

• Use the sticky cauliflower as a filling for tacos, adding fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime.
• Wrap in lettuce leaves with crunchy veggies for a light and refreshing option.

Over Salads

• Top a bed of mixed greens with the warm cauliflower and drizzle with a tangy dressing.
• Add nuts or seeds for crunch and protein, making it a complete meal.

How to Perfect Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Achieving the ideal texture and flavor for Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is easy with these helpful tips.

• Coat evenly: Ensure each cauliflower floret is well-coated with the batter to achieve an even crispness when baked.
• Preheat your oven: A hot oven helps to create that perfect crispy exterior. Preheat it well before baking.
• Don’t overcrowd: Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of roasting.
• Adjust spice levels: For those who enjoy heat, feel free to increase the amount of Sriracha or add red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger bring out the best flavors in this dish; avoid using dried versions if possible.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Pairing side dishes with Sticky Sesame Cauliflower can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Lightly fragrant rice complements the richness of the sauce perfectly.
2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with slices of cucumber tossed in vinegar adds crunch and acidity.
3. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quick-cooked bok choy retains its vibrant color and provides a nutritious boost alongside the cauliflower.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs serves as a protein-rich base that balances the sweetness of the dish.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the sticky sauce.
6. Miso Soup: A light miso soup adds warmth and depth, making it an ideal complement to your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Sticky Sesame Cauliflower turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the Coating: Not using rice flour and cornstarch for the coating can lead to a soggy texture. Ensure you coat the cauliflower well for that crispy bite.
• Using Too Much Water: Adding excessive water can make the batter too thin, preventing it from adhering properly. Add water gradually until you achieve a thick consistency.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Overcooking or undercooking can affect the flavor and texture. Keep an eye on your cauliflower and adjust cooking time as needed for crispiness.
• Not Adjusting Spice Levels: If you’re unsure about spice, start with a small amount of Sriracha. You can always add more later to reach your desired heat level.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale spices or old garlic diminishes the flavor of your dish. Always use fresh ingredients for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the cauliflower to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place cauliflower on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crisp.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through, but note that this may soften the texture.
• Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Sticky Sesame Cauliflower.

How do I make Sticky Sesame Cauliflower gluten-free?

You can substitute rice flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour. Ensure that your soy sauce is gluten-free as well.

Can I use different vegetables for this recipe?

Yes! Broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini can be excellent alternatives. Adjust cooking time according to the vegetable used.

What can I serve with Sticky Sesame Cauliflower?

Serve it alongside steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal. It also pairs well with salads or stir-fried vegetables.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegan-friendly if you use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure all sauces are plant-based.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is not only delicious but also versatile. Its combination of sweet and spicy flavors makes it perfect as a main dish or side. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or add extra spices to suit your taste!

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Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a delightful dish that combines crispy, tender cauliflower with a rich and flavorful sesame sauce. This easy-to-make recipe features a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy notes, making it perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or as an impressive appetizer for entertaining. Enjoy it alone or paired with rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. The versatility of this dish means you can customize the heat level to suit your preference, ensuring a delicious experience every time.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 1.5 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/4 cup light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice apple vinegar
• 1–2 tbsp Sriracha sauce, adjust to taste
• 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
• Sesame seeds
• Spring onions, sliced
• Sliced chilis

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together rice flour, cornstarch, and garlic powder (optional). Gradually add water to form a smooth batter.
2. Coat the cauliflower florets in the batter thoroughly and spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy.
4. While baking, mix sesame oil, light soy sauce, rice apple vinegar, Sriracha sauce, minced ginger, minced garlic, honey (or maple syrup), cornstarch, and water in another bowl until smooth.
5. Once baked, drizzle the sauce over the cauliflower while hot and toss gently to coat.
6. Serve warm garnished with sesame seeds, spring onions, and sliced chilies.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 150g
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Adjust the amount of Sriracha based on your desired spice level. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like broccoli or zucchini.