Name: Crispy Sesame Cauliflower Bites With Big Crunch Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 eggs; 1 head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets; 1 cup oil for frying (omit if baking); Sesame seeds, for garnish; 1 teaspoon sesame oil or vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (optional); 2 tablespoons honey or sugar; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup water

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Introduction

Crispy Sesame Cauliflower Bites offer a delightful combination of crunch and savory-sweet flavor, perfect for a snack or appetizer. These bites are coated, cooked until crispy, and tossed in a luscious sesame sauce that everyone will love.

The image shows a white bowl filled with crispy cauliflower pieces, each coated in a sticky, dark brown sauce that gives a shiny texture. The cauliflower is golden-orange with some browned crispy spots. Scattered on top are small white sesame seeds and sliced green onions, adding green and white color contrast. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface with blurred elements in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
1 head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1 cup oil for frying (omit if baking)
Sesame seeds, for garnish
1 teaspoon sesame oil or vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (optional)
2 tablespoons honey or sugar
2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup water

Instructions

Step 1: In a large shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the eggs. Dip each cauliflower floret into the egg mixture, then coat it in the flour mixture.
Step 2: To bake: preheat the oven to 420°F (215°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place the breaded cauliflower on the tray, lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with oil, and bake for 30 minutes, turning halfway through. To fry: heat 1 cup of oil in a medium pan over medium-high heat. Fry cauliflower in batches for 3–5 minutes, until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Step 3: In a medium pan over medium-high heat, heat the sesame or vegetable oil. Add garlic and ginger (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Stir in honey, vinegar, soy sauce, water, and cornstarch. Bring to a boil, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
Step 4: Once the cauliflower is cooked, place it in a large bowl. Pour the prepared sauce over the cauliflower and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, double-dip the cauliflower by repeating the egg and flour coating steps before cooking.
Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly sauce.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
To make this gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with rice flour or a gluten-free blend.

Storage

Store leftover cauliflower bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a hot oven or toaster oven to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the coating soggy. The sauce can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with golden brown roasted cauliflower pieces coated in a shiny, sticky dark reddish-brown sauce, sprinkled with small white sesame seeds and bright green chopped scallions scattered on top and around the bowl, placed on a white marbled surface with a wooden board partially visible in the background, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake the cauliflower bites instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a great alternative. Bake at 420°F (215°C) for about 30 minutes, turning halfway through for even crispiness. This method reduces oil use while still delivering a delicious crunch.

Is the sauce suitable for vegans?

The sauce can be made vegan-friendly by substituting honey with maple syrup or another plant-based sweetener. Be sure to use soy sauce or tamari that fits your dietary preferences.