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Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a quick, healthy, and flavorful plant-based dish featuring crispy cauliflower florets coated in a sticky, savory-sweet sesame sauce. Perfect as a main course or appetizer, this recipe is easy to prepare in under 30 minutes and packed with wholesome ingredients, combining toasty sesame, umami soy, and a hint of sweetness for an irresistible flavor and satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 medium cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil

Sauce Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

Garnishes

  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Wash and cut the cauliflower into fairly uniform bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking.
  2. Make the Breading: In a bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with cornstarch until they are lightly coated, creating a crispy exterior when cooked.
  3. Cook the Cauliflower: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the coated cauliflower in batches until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  4. Prepare the Sticky Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce (or tamari), honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This sauce forms the flavorful sticky glaze.
  5. Combine Cauliflower and Sauce: Return the fried cauliflower to the skillet and pour the sticky sauce over it. Toss well over medium heat until the sauce thickens and evenly coats each piece.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry cauliflower in batches to ensure crispiness.
  • Use fresh garlic and ginger for a brighter, more vibrant sauce.
  • Adjust the quantity of honey or maple syrup to your preferred sweetness level.
  • Toast sesame seeds before garnishing to enhance their nutty flavor.
  • Allow the dish to rest a couple of minutes after cooking so the sauce sets perfectly.

Nutrition

Keywords: sticky sesame cauliflower, plant-based, vegan, gluten-free, quick healthy dinner, crispy cauliflower, sesame sauce