Description
Get perfectly crisp, sticky sesame cauliflower without the fuss! This easy gluten-free vegan bake delivers sweet, savory bites. Full instructions and nutrition info included.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head cauliflower (about 2 lbs), cut into bite-sized florets
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for coating)
- 1/4 cup gluten-free tamari
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until evenly coated. Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Bake the cauliflower for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it's tender-crisp and slightly browned. For extra crispiness, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Step 3: While the cauliflower bakes, prepare the sticky sesame sauce. In a small saucepan, whisk together the gluten-free tamari, maple syrup, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, and minced garlic.
- Step 4: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly to a syrupy consistency.
- Step 5: Once the cauliflower is baked, add it directly to the saucepan with the thickened sauce. Toss gently until all the florets are thoroughly coated. Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle generously with sesame seeds, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Keep any delicious leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, perfect for a quick snack or a next-day meal.
- To revive that wonderful tender-crisp texture, reheat your cauliflower in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes; microwaving is quicker but will yield a softer result.
- Enjoy this flavorful dish as a main over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa, or as a fantastic side dish paired with steamed greens for a complete and satisfying meal.
- For an irresistible extra layer of flavor and a slight kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger to your sauce mixture before simmering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups (approx. 220g)
- Calories: 210
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 13g