Name: Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 medium Cauliflower, cut into florets; 1/3 cup Rice flour; 1 tbsp Cornstarch; 1 tsp oil; 1/2 tsp Garlic powder (optional); 1/4 to 1/3 cup Water; 1.5 tbsp Sesame oil; 1/4 cup Light soy sauce; 1 tbsp Rice vinegar; 1-2 tbsp Sriracha Sauce, adjust to taste; 1 inch Fresh ginger, finely minced; 4-5 cloves Fresh garlic, finely minced; 2-3 tbsp Honey or maple syrup; 1 tbsp Cornstarch; 1/4 cup Water; Sesame seeds; Spring onions; Sliced chillis

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 11 reviews

If you have a craving for something crispy, flavorful, and packed with that perfect balance of sweet heat, you are in for a real treat with this Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Recipe. It’s a fantastic dish that turns simple cauliflower florets into a mouthwatering main course that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Whether you are looking to impress friends at dinner or just enjoy a comforting, plant-based delight, this recipe combines crunchy textures with sticky, savory, and spicy notes that make every bite unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows many small cauliflower pieces spread out in a single layer on a baking pan lined with foil. The cauliflower pieces are off-white with some golden-brown spots, showing light roasting. The texture of the cauliflower looks soft with slightly crisp edges. The foil underneath is shiny silver with some food residues. The background surface has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Recipe is refreshingly straightforward, and each component plays a key role in delivering the dish’s distinctive taste and texture. From the crunchy cauliflower base to the vibrant, sticky sauce—every ingredient brings something special to the table.

1 medium Cauliflower, cut into florets: The star ingredient providing a satisfying crunch and a great canvas for the sauce.
1/3 cup Rice flour: Ensures a light, crispy coating when baked, perfect for that irresistible texture.
1 tbsp Cornstarch: Adds extra crispness and helps thicken the batter coating the cauliflower.
1 tsp Oil: Enhances the crispiness and browning of the cauliflower as it bakes.
1/2 tsp Garlic powder (optional): Adds a subtle garlicky depth to the coating without overpowering it.
1/4 to 1/3 cup Water: Used to make the batter to just the right thickness for coating the cauliflower.
1.5 tbsp Sesame oil: Infuses the sauce with deep, nutty flavor that is unmistakably Asian.
1/4 cup Light soy sauce: Provides that essential salty and umami kick in the sticky glaze.
1 tbsp Rice vinegar: Brightens and balances the richness with a gentle tang.
1-2 tbsp Sriracha sauce: Adjust the heat level to your mood, from mild warmth to fiery spice.
1″ Fresh ginger, finely minced: Offers a fresh, zesty punch to complement the garlic.
4-5 cloves Fresh garlic, finely minced: Intensifies the savory flavor, enhancing the sauce beautifully.
2-3 tbsp Honey or maple syrup: Adds a luscious sweetness that caramelizes perfectly in the sticky glaze.
1 tbsp Cornstarch + 1/4 cup Water (for sauce): This combo thickens the glaze, wrapping every floret in glossy goodness.
Sesame seeds, Spring onions, Sliced chilies (for garnish): These finishing touches add texture, color, and an extra burst of flavor.

How to Make Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Bake the Cauliflower

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking tray with foil or parchment paper to make cleanup easy and to prevent sticking. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice flour, cornstarch, oil, garlic powder (if using), and water until you get a smooth, thick batter. This batter will cling to your cauliflower florets, creating that coveted crispy crust. Coat each floret evenly and arrange them in a single layer on the baking tray. Pop them in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, keeping a close eye so they become tender yet still have a satisfying crunch.

Step 2: Craft the Sticky Sesame Sauce

While your cauliflower is baking, it’s time to whip up the sauce that will bring everything together. In a small saucepan, combine sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, minced ginger, and garlic. Let this aromatic mixture cook gently for about 5 to 6 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. Then, stir together the cornstarch and water in a separate bowl until smooth and pour this slurry into the simmering sauce. Keep cooking and whisking for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy glaze. Remove from heat and stir in honey or maple syrup to finish with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy.

Step 3: Combine and Coat

Once your cauliflower comes out golden and crunchy from the oven, toss the florets directly into the sticky sesame sauce. Use a large spoon or tongs to coat every piece generously, making sure they’re all glazed in that flavorful, luscious sauce that defines this Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Recipe. This step is where all the magic happens — the crispy meets sticky and spicy in one sensational bite.

How to Serve Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Recipe

A white bowl holds two main layers: on the left, there is a fluffy layer of white rice sprinkled with small green onion pieces for a fresh touch; on the right, there is a layer of orange-colored cauliflower florets coated in a sticky sauce with sesame seeds and small green onion bits scattered on top, giving a textured look. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a yellow and white striped cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishes add the final flourish to your dish, heightening both its appeal and flavor. Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds for that extra nuttiness and crunch. A scattering of thinly sliced spring onions brings freshness and vibrant green color, while thin slices of fresh chilies add a punch of heat and stunning visual contrast. These garnishes not only make the dish look irresistible but also layer on texture and flavor with every bite.

Side Dishes

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside steamed jasmine rice or fluffy brown rice to soak up all that sticky sauce. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice or a crisp Asian-style salad work beautifully. You could also pair it with garlic noodles or light vegetable stir-fries to keep the meal balanced and exciting.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow your dinner guests? Try serving the Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Recipe in individual lettuce cups for a fun finger-food experience. Another exciting way is to pile the cauliflower over a bed of vibrant quinoa or soba noodles and drizzle any extra sauce over the top. For a party, present it on a colorful platter garnished with extra sesame seeds and spring onions for an eye-catching centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the Sticky Sesame Cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. For best texture, keep the sauce and the cauliflower separate if you anticipate a longer wait before serving, then toss them together when reheating.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, the cauliflower may lose some of its crispness. If you choose to freeze it, spread the cooked and cooled cauliflower without sauce on a tray first to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze sauce separately if you like. This method will help maintain texture better but is best used when you plan to reheat quickly.

Reheating

To reheat, place the cauliflower on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes to restore some of that crunch. Warm the sauce gently in a saucepan or microwave separately, then toss together just before serving to keep all the shine and flavor intact.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Recipe?

While fresh cauliflower works best for that perfect crispy texture, you can use frozen cauliflower in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it first to avoid sogginess. Adjust baking times accordingly and watch closely to keep the crunch.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes! Simply swap honey for maple syrup or another plant-based sweetener and you have a delightful vegan version that does not compromise on any of the sticky, spicy goodness.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Using rice flour and cornstarch means this Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check your soy sauce brand to confirm it’s gluten-free or use tamari as a substitute.

How spicy is the Sriracha in the sauce? Can I adjust it?

The sriracha adds a medium heat level that you can easily control. Start with 1 tablespoon for mild spice and increase up to 2 tablespoons or more if you love a fiery kick. It’s all about tailoring it to your heat preference!

Can I cook the cauliflower on the stove instead of baking?

Yes, pan-frying is an option if you prefer. Toss the coated cauliflower florets in a hot skillet with a little oil until golden and crispy. Just be mindful of stove-top space and stir often for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Recipe truly is a celebration of flavor and texture, turning humble cauliflower into a show-stopping dish that’s bursting with sweet, spicy, and nutty notes. It’s comforting and exciting all at once, perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual get-togethers. Give it a try—you just might find your new favorite way to enjoy vegetables with a delicious Asian twist!

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need