Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Spicy Sesame Cauliflower Wings are a delicious plant-based twist on classic wings, featuring crispy roasted cauliflower tossed in a tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet sesame sauce. Perfect for game day, parties, or as a flavorful appetizer, these wings are easy to make and sure to impress vegans and non-vegans alike.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cauliflower floretsall-purpose flourcornstarchunsweetened plant-based milksalt and peppergarlic powdersoy saucesriracha or other hot saucesesame oilsesame seedshoney or maple syrupgreen onions (for garnish)
directions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and plant-based milk to form a smooth batter.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, then place on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
While baking, whisk together soy sauce, sriracha, sesame oil, and honey or maple syrup in a small pot. Heat over medium heat until slightly thickened.
Remove cauliflower from the oven and toss in the spicy sesame sauce until evenly coated.
Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes to caramelize.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 30-35 minutesTotal time: 45-50 minutes
Variations
Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Use gluten-free flour and tamari for a gluten-free version.
Top with chopped peanuts or cashews for added crunch.
Serve with a cooling dip like vegan ranch or garlic yogurt sauce.
storage/reheating
Store leftover cauliflower wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness.
FAQs
Can I air-fry these cauliflower wings?
Yes, you can air-fry them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I make them oil-free?
You can reduce oil by using parchment paper and skipping the sesame oil, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Are they very spicy?
The spice level is adjustable—add more or less sriracha to taste.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh cauliflower is best for texture, but frozen works if thawed and patted dry.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce a bit longer until it reduces to your desired consistency.
Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes, bake the cauliflower ahead and toss in sauce just before serving.
Conclusion
Spicy Sesame Cauliflower Wings are a flavorful, crunchy, and satisfying alternative to traditional wings. Whether you’re serving them for a party, as an appetizer, or for a fun dinner, they’ll bring a bold kick and a delicious sesame twist to your table. Give them a try and watch them disappear!
Print
Spicy Sesame Cauliflower Wings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Spicy Sesame Cauliflower Wings are crispy, oven-baked cauliflower bites tossed in a spicy-sweet sesame sauce. This vegan twist on classic wings makes a delicious appetizer for parties, game day, or anytime you want a bold, plant-based snack.
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sriracha or other hot sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and plant-based milk until smooth.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, shake off excess, and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Meanwhile, whisk together soy sauce, sriracha, sesame oil, and honey or maple syrup in a small pot. Heat over medium heat until slightly thickened.
- Remove cauliflower from the oven and toss in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes to caramelize.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
- Use tamari and gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less sriracha.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat if desired.
- Top with chopped peanuts or cashews for added crunch.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.