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Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
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Sticky Sesame Cauliflower is a vibrant plant-based dish featuring perfectly roasted cauliflower florets coated in a luscious sticky sesame glaze. This recipe combines sweet, savory, and nutty flavors for a delicious and wholesome alternative to traditional meat dishes. Easy to prepare and versatile, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, and those seeking a gluten-free, vegan-friendly recipe that satisfies cravings with bold flavor and crisp texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1–2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive oil for roasting)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Sticky Sesame Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (use maple syrup for vegan)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil (use olive oil for nut-free option)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder

Garnishes

  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. Prep the Cauliflower: Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets for even roasting. Pat them dry thoroughly to ensure they crisp up perfectly in the oven.
  2. Roast to Perfection: Toss the florets in a bit of oil and season lightly with salt and pepper. Spread them out evenly on a baking tray. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for about 25 minutes until they are golden and slightly charred around the edges.
  3. Prepare the Sticky Sesame Sauce: While the cauliflower roasts, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and cornstarch in a bowl to form a smooth sticky glaze that will cling to the cauliflower.
  4. Combine and Glaze: Pour the sauce into a warm skillet over medium heat. Cook the sauce, stirring constantly, until it thickens and becomes glossy. Add the roasted cauliflower to the skillet and toss until every piece is evenly coated with the sticky sesame glaze.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the glazed cauliflower to a serving plate. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for the perfect finishing touch.

Notes

  • Dry your cauliflower well to prevent steaming and ensure crispiness.
  • Use high heat when roasting to caramelize natural sugars and develop complex flavors.
  • Stir the sauce constantly while thickening to avoid clumps and achieve a glossy finish.
  • Lightly toast sesame seeds before garnishing to enhance nuttiness and crunch.
  • Let the cauliflower rest for a couple of minutes after glazing to allow the sauce to set and enhance flavor absorption.

Nutrition

Keywords: Sticky Sesame Cauliflower, plant-based, vegan, gluten-free, roasted cauliflower, sticky glaze, sesame sauce, healthy appetizer

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/sticky-sesame-cauliflower/