Sticky Sesame Cauliflower | Quick & Flavor-Packed Dinner

Some nights, you just want something that hits all the right notes crispy, sticky, saucy, and deeply satisfying. That’s where this Sticky Sesame Cauliflower comes in. It’s the kind of dish that turns a regular Tuesday into a little celebration. One bite in, and you’re hooked.

Why You’ll Love This Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is everything you want in a weeknight dinner. It’s crispy on the outside, tender inside, and smothered in a sweet-spicy, garlicky sesame sauce that clings to every crevice.

Plus, it’s vegetarian (and easily vegan). The recipe uses simple ingredients, bakes instead of fries, and comes together in under an hour. Whether you’re craving takeout or hosting a veggie-forward dinner, this dish delivers comfort and flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses two main parts: the crispy cauliflower batter and the sticky sesame sauce. Both are packed with flavor and made from pantry staples.

For the Cauliflower Batter

You’ll need:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, broken into bite-sized florets
• 1/3 cup rice flour
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1/4–1/3 cup water

This light batter gives the cauliflower its crispy texture without deep-frying. Rice flour helps it crisp up beautifully in the oven.

For the Sticky Sesame Sauce

This sauce is the star. You’ll need:

• 1.5 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/4 cup light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
• 1–2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 2–3 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 4–5 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water

The sauce gets glossy, thick, and deeply flavorful. It’s sweet, spicy, tangy, and savory all in one.

Garnish Ideas

Once tossed in sauce, top it all with:

• Toasted sesame seeds
• Sliced spring onions
• Fresh red chilies for a kick

These add texture, color, and a final pop of flavor.

How to Make Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Step 1: Prep and Batter the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking tray with parchment.

In a bowl, whisk rice flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, oil, and water into a thick batter. You want it just pourable.

Dip each floret in the batter and shake off the excess. Arrange in a single layer on the tray, leaving space between pieces.

Bake for 20–25 minutes until lightly golden and crispy. Don’t overbake, or they’ll go soft.

Step 2: Make the Sticky Sesame Sauce

While the cauliflower bakes, heat sesame oil in a small pan. Add ginger and garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha. Simmer for about 5–6 minutes.

If using maple syrup, add it now. If using honey, wait until after cooking.

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Stir it into the sauce and cook 2–3 minutes until thick and glossy.

Remove from heat and stir in honey, if using.

Step 3: Combine and Garnish

When the cauliflower is ready, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the warm sauce over it and toss quickly until every piece is coated.

Top with sesame seeds, spring onions, and chilies.

Serve immediately while the cauliflower is still crispy.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Don’t overcrowd the tray—space helps the florets get crispy.
• Serve right away. The longer it sits, the softer it gets.
• You can make the sauce ahead, refrigerate, and reheat gently with a splash of water before tossing.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is perfect over fluffy jasmine rice or noodles. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a lighter twist.

Pair it with a simple side like Thai Cucumber Salad with a Tangy Twist or miso soup for a balanced plate.

Want a cozier combo? Serve it alongside Easy Korean Egg Rice (Gyeran Bap).

Variations & Substitutions

• Make it vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey.
• Need it gluten-free? Use certified gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
• Craving variety? Try the sauce with tofu, mushrooms, or even tempeh.
• Love spice? Add a spoonful of gochujang or double the sriracha.

More Such Recipes

If this sticky, crispy dish speaks to your cravings, you’ll also love:

• Sweet & Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Recipe
• Crispy Sweet Chilli Chicken for Weeknight Cravings

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Final Thoughts

This Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is proof that you don’t need meat to make something crave-worthy. It’s easy, flexible, and full of punchy flavor.

Try it once, and you might just find yourself making it again and again. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out or tag me in your photos on Pinterest or Facebook. I love seeing your kitchen wins.

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