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Close-up of sticky sesame cauliflower florets on white marble.

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

This Sticky Sesame Cauliflower recipe transforms ordinary cauliflower into a flavorful and satisfying dish. The crispy baked cauliflower is coated in a sweet and savory sesame sauce, making it a perfect side or main course.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cauliflower
  • 1 large head of cauliflower cut into florets
Batter
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup water
Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
Garnish
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1 green onion thinly sliced (for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Whisk together cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
  3. Add water and whisk until a smooth batter forms.
  4. Add cauliflower florets to the batter and toss to coat evenly.
  5. Arrange cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and lightly browned.
  7. While the cauliflower is baking, heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  8. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
  9. Stir in soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), and rice vinegar.
  10. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
  11. Add the baked cauliflower to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  12. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is sticky and glossy.
  13. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onion before serving.

Notes

For extra crispy cauliflower, you can broil it for the last few minutes of baking. Watch carefully to prevent burning!