Description

This Sticky Sesame Cauliflower recipe features crispy baked cauliflower florets coated in a luscious, sweet and spicy sesame sauce. Perfect as a flavorful vegetarian appetizer or side dish, it combines a crunchy texture with a balanced blend of soy, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and a touch of heat from sriracha, finished with fresh garnishes for an irresistible bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Cauliflower Batter

1 medium Cauliflower, cut into florets
1/3 cup Rice flour
1 tbsp Cornstarch
1 tsp Oil
1/2 tsp Garlic powder (optional)
1/4 – 1/3 cup Water

Sauce

1.5 tbsp Sesame oil
1/4 cup Light soy sauce
1 tbsp Rice wine vinegar
1–2 tbsp Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
1 inch 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

Garnish

Sesame seeds
Spring onions
Sliced chillis

Instructions

Prepare Baking Tray and Batter: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking tray with foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Make the Batter: In a small bowl, whisk together rice flour, cornstarch, oil, garlic powder (if using), and water until you achieve a smooth, thick batter that will evenly coat the cauliflower florets.
Coat the Cauliflower: Dip the cauliflower florets into the batter, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking tray, avoiding overcrowding to allow even cooking.
Bake the Cauliflower: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until florets are just tender and the coating is slightly crispy. Be careful not to overcook as you want the cauliflower to remain crunchy.
Prepare the Sauce: While the cauliflower bakes, combine sesame oil, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sriracha, minced ginger, and garlic in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. If using maple syrup, add it at this stage.
Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Slowly add this to the simmering sauce, stirring continuously. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency. Remove from heat and stir in honey. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Toss and Garnish: Once cauliflower is baked, transfer it to a large bowl and toss with the sticky sesame sauce until well coated. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped spring onions, and sliced chillis. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

You can adjust the sriracha quantity based on preferred spice level.
Use honey or maple syrup interchangeably depending on dietary preference.
Make sure not to overbake the cauliflower to keep it crunchy rather than mushy.
For a gluten-free version, ensure soy sauce used is gluten-free tamari.
Leftover cauliflower can be reheated but may lose some crispness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Keywords: Sticky Sesame Cauliflower, Baked Cauliflower, Vegetarian Appetizer, Asian Cauliflower Recipe, Sweet Spicy Cauliflower