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Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
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Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a crispy, saucy vegetarian dish featuring tender cauliflower florets coated in a sticky, sweet sesame glaze with a perfect balance of savory umami and a hint of heat. Easy to make in under 30 minutes, this flavorful recipe offers a crunchy exterior with a tender inside and can be baked or fried. Ideal as a weeknight dinner or appetizer, it’s gluten-free when made with tamari and gluten-free starches, and customizable to suit your spice preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Cauliflower

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 3/4 cup cornstarch or arrowroot powder
  • Oil for frying (optional, if frying)

Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

Garnishes

  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Optional: chili flakes for spice

Instructions

  1. Prep the Cauliflower: Wash and cut fresh cauliflower into bite-sized florets, ensuring pieces are roughly uniform for even cooking. Pat them thoroughly dry to help the coating stick better and achieve a crispier texture.
  2. Coat with Starch: In a large bowl, toss the dry cauliflower florets with cornstarch or arrowroot powder until each piece is lightly coated, which is essential for a crunchy exterior.
  3. Fry or Bake: For frying, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and carefully fry the coated florets until golden brown and crisp on all sides. For baking, arrange coated florets on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.
  4. Make the Sesame Sauce: While the cauliflower cooks, whisk together soy sauce or tamari, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger until the sauce is smooth and fragrant.
  5. Toss Cauliflower in Sauce: Once cooked, transfer the cauliflower to a large bowl, pour over the sticky sesame sauce, and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece evenly.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and optional chili flakes. Serve immediately while the sauce is warm and sticky for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Pat the cauliflower completely dry before coating to ensure crispiness.
  • Cook at medium-high heat for a crunchy exterior without sogginess.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches as necessary for even frying or baking.
  • Whisk the sauce ingredients thoroughly for a balanced and smooth glaze.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the curry at its crispiest; the sauce thickens and hardens upon standing.

Nutrition

Keywords: Sticky Sesame Cauliflower, gluten-free, vegetarian, easy dinner, crispy cauliflower, sesame glaze, baked cauliflower, healthy appetizers

Find it online: https://eazyum.com/sticky-sesame-cauliflower/