Description
If you’re looking for a bold and satisfying plant-based dish, this Sticky Sesame Cauliflower recipe is a must-try. Crispy, oven-baked cauliflower florets are tossed in a rich, sticky sauce made with sesame oil, soy sauce, and a hint of spice from Sriracha. The flavors of fresh garlic, ginger, and honey (or maple syrup) bring this dish together for a balanced sweet, savory, and slightly spicy sensation. It’s perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even the main event when served with rice or noodles. This recipe gives cauliflower a vibrant twist that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
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)
- 1/3–1/4 cup water
For the Sauce:
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1/4 cup light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
- 1–2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, finely minced
- 4–5 cloves of 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 chillis
Instructions
Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil. - Make the Batter:
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice flour, cornstarch, oil, garlic powder (if using), and water. The mixture should be smooth and thick. - Coat the Cauliflower:
Toss the cauliflower florets in the batter until each floret is evenly coated. Place them in a single layer on the prepared baking tray. - Bake the Cauliflower:
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cauliflower is just cooked and still retains a bit of crunch. Avoid overcooking as you want the texture to stay crispy.
Prepare the Sticky Sesame Sauce:
- Cook the Aromatics:
While the cauliflower is baking, heat sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced ginger and garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. - Add the Rest of the Sauce Ingredients:
Stir in soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and Sriracha. If you’re using maple syrup instead of honey, add it at this stage. - Thicken the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water. Gradually add this mixture to the simmering sauce, stirring constantly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. - Finish the Sauce:
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the honey (or maple syrup). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer more spice, add extra Sriracha.
Toss and Serve:
- Combine:
Once the cauliflower is done baking, toss it in the sticky sesame sauce until evenly coated. - Garnish:
Transfer the sticky sesame cauliflower to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds, chopped spring onions, and sliced chillis for an added kick of flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 20mins
- Cook Time: 30mins