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Delicious sticky sesame cauliflower dish garnished with sesame seeds and scallions.

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

A cozy, seasonal dish featuring crisp cauliflower tossed in a sticky sesame glaze that's perfect as a side or main dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine Asian, Vegan
Servings 4 servings
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 3 tablespoons neutral oil (vegetable or light olive oil)
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or gluten-free tamari)
  • 3 tablespoons honey Can be replaced with maple syrup for vegan option.
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-2 teaspoons sriracha or chili paste (optional, to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for a crisp coating)
  • 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 tablespoons scallions, thinly sliced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
  • Toss the cauliflower florets with neutral oil, salt, and pepper so each piece is lightly coated.

Roasting

  • Spread florets in a single layer and roast for 20–25 minutes, turning once, until edges are golden and slightly crisp.

Making the Sauce

  • While the cauliflower roasts, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sriracha in a small saucepan.
  • Heat over medium until the honey dissolves and the sauce starts to simmer.

Thickening the Glaze

  • Mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry, then slowly whisk it into the simmering sauce.
  • Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy, sticky consistency.

Coating the Cauliflower

  • Toss the roasted cauliflower gently in the sauce until each floret is nicely coated.
  • Return to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 5 minutes to set the glaze.

Finishing Touches

  • Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions over the finished dish and serve warm.

Notes

For best results, avoid overcrowding the pan while roasting to allow cauliflower to brown. Adjust sauce consistency with water if it becomes too thick.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 3gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6g
Keyword comfort food, Gluten-Free Option, Savory Side Dish, Sticky Sesame Cauliflower, Vegan Cauliflower Recipe
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