Sticky Sesame Cauliflower 🌱🍚

Posted by by Sara 1 year Ago 253 Views

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup water (or as needed)
  • 1/4 cup sesame oil (or vegetable oil for frying)

For the sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
  2. Coat the cauliflower: In a bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add water to the dry ingredients, stirring until a batter forms (it should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but not too runny). Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.
  3. Fry the cauliflower: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the coated cauliflower florets in batches, turning them occasionally, until they’re golden brown and crispy (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from the oil and set them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
  4. Make the sauce: While the cauliflower is frying, combine soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and cornstarch-water mixture in a small saucepan. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, whisking continuously until it thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
  5. Toss the cauliflower: Once the cauliflower is all fried, place it in a large bowl and pour the sticky sesame sauce over the top. Toss until the cauliflower is well-coated in the sauce.
  6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately, either as an appetizer or a side dish with rice or noodles.

Tips:

  • Make it spicier: Add a few dashes of sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist!
  • Baking option: If you prefer to bake instead of fry, arrange the battered cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
  • For extra flavor: Try adding a bit of hoisin sauce or a splash of rice wine to the sauce for added depth.

Nutrition (per serving, serves 4):

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 11g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 8g