Cauliflower is the star of this vibrant dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Coated in a luscious sticky sauce infused with toasted sesame, garlic, and a hint of sweetness, these cauliflower bites are crispy on the outside and tender inside. Whether served as a plant-based main, appetizer, or side, this recipe is a winner for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking for a tasty, healthy meal.
🥢 Why You’ll Love Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
- Crispy and sticky texture that’s incredibly satisfying
- Bursting with umami from sesame and soy sauce
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Vegan and gluten-free — perfect for many diets
- Great for meal prep and quick dinners
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Cauliflower:
- 1 large head of cauliflower (about 600g), cut into bite-sized florets
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying or roasting)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sticky Sesame Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (gluten-free if needed)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
Garnishes:
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
🔥 Instructions
1. Prepare the Cauliflower:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower florets with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Drizzle with vegetable oil and toss again.
Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
2. Roast the Cauliflower:
Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
3. Make the Sticky Sauce:
While cauliflower roasts, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens to a sticky glaze.
4. Combine & Serve:
Transfer roasted cauliflower to a large bowl. Pour sticky sesame sauce over and toss to coat evenly.
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Over steamed jasmine or brown rice
- With stir-fried vegetables
- In a lettuce wrap for a light meal
- As a tasty appetizer with dipping sauce
🧠 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
💡 Tips & Tricks
- For extra crispiness, air fry the cauliflower at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes instead of roasting.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Toast sesame seeds before using for extra nuttiness.
- Leftovers reheat well in a skillet or air fryer for crisp texture.
🌟 A Little Extra From Me
Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is one of my favorite plant-based dishes because it delivers tons of flavor and texture without complicated prep. The balance of sweet, savory, and nutty notes makes it incredibly addictive — you’ll want to double the sauce!
This dish is fantastic for sharing at dinner parties or just elevating a simple weeknight meal. Pair it with steamed rice and sautéed greens to complete the meal. It’s comfort food with a healthy twist.
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