Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a mouthwatering dish that combines crispy, crunchy cauliflower with a rich, flavorful sauce that’s both spicy and sweet. Perfect for those craving an Asian-inspired dish, this recipe delivers a satisfying crunch and a burst of umami with every bite. Whether you’re looking for a main course or a side dish, this cauliflower will leave you smiling with satisfaction.

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sticky Sesame Cauliflower brings the best of both worlds—crispy, golden-brown cauliflower and a sticky, flavorful sauce that is perfectly balanced with sweetness, spice, and a hint of tang. The contrast between the crispy cauliflower and the rich sauce makes each bite irresistible. It’s quick, easy, and can be made healthier by adjusting the amount of sweetener or spiciness. Plus, it’s entirely vegetarian and can even be made vegan if you substitute honey with maple syrup.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower:

1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
1/3 cup rice flour
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/3 to 1/4 cup water

For the Sauce:

1.5 tablespoons sesame oil
1/4 cup light soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
1-2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
1-inch fresh ginger, finely minced
4-5 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
2-3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup water

For Garnish:

Sesame seeds
Spring onions, chopped
Sliced chilies

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

Directions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower:

Preheat the oven to 200°C / 392°F and line a baking tray with foil or parchment paper.
In a small bowl, whisk together rice flour, cornstarch, oil, garlic powder (if using), and water until you get a smooth, thick batter.
Coat the cauliflower florets evenly in the batter and spread them in a single layer on the prepared baking tray.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cauliflower is golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook, as you want to retain their crunch.

2. Make the Sauce:

While the cauliflower bakes, combine sesame oil, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sriracha sauce, ginger, and garlic in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5-6 minutes to let the flavors meld.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Add this mixture to the simmering sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in honey or maple syrup to balance the sauce’s flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

3. Assemble:

Once the cauliflower is done, toss it in the sticky sesame sauce, ensuring every floret is well-coated.
Garnish with sesame seeds, spring onions, and sliced chilies for added crunch and heat.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of sriracha for more heat or add fresh chopped chilies into the sauce for an extra fiery touch.
Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a completely vegan version of this dish.
Add Veggies: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the dish for more variety.
Make it Sweet: Add a bit more honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the cauliflower in the oven for a few minutes to restore its crispiness, or microwave it for a quicker option. Just note that microwaving will soften the cauliflower a bit.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but make sure to thaw and pat it dry before coating it with the batter to ensure it crisps up nicely.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to make the dish gluten-free. Ensure your rice flour is also certified gluten-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

The cauliflower can be baked ahead of time and stored in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat and toss it in the sauce.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add extra sriracha sauce or incorporate fresh chopped chilies into the sauce for a more intense heat.

Can I add other proteins to this dish?

Yes, you can add grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp to make this dish a heartier meal.

Conclusion

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a crunchy, flavorful dish that perfectly balances sweetness and spice. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you serve it as a main course or a side, it will quickly become a favorite on your menu. Enjoy this Asian-inspired treat for a satisfying and delicious meal!