Sticky Sesame Cauliflower (Air-Fried)
Give sticky sesame cauliflower takeout a healthy twist with this batter-free, air-fried version! It’s addictively delicious, ultra-crispy, and naturally vegan! Plus, it's ready in just 30 minutes!
Servings: 3 - 4
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower chopped into bite-sized florets
- 2 tablespoons oil
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
- 1-2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- Green onions sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with oil until well coated.
- Place the cauliflower in the basket of an air fryer in a single layer. Cook at 400°F for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through. Add an additional 5 minutes if needed, until golden and slightly crispy. Avoid overcooking.
- While the cauliflower cooks, in a large pan or skillet, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. Bring to a light boil over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with water until fully dissolved. Slowly pour the slurry into the pan, whisking continuously. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Once the cauliflower is ready, add it to the pan and gently toss until the florets are fully coated in the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
Notes
- Use even-sized florets: So they air fry evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the tray: For the crispiest roasted cauliflower. Overcrowding leads to steaming and soggy, sad cauliflower.
- Tweak the flavors: E.g., more or less sugar, vinegar, sesame oil, etc., to taste – make it work for you!
- Adjust sauce consistency: Add more water for a thinner sauce or more cornstarch for a thicker one.