These Air Fryer Sesame Cauliflower Wings are crispy, flavorful, and coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory sesame glaze. They’re the perfect vegetarian alternative to traditional wings and make a fantastic appetizer or snack! With the crunch of the air-fried coating and the richness of the sauce, these cauliflower wings will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Cauliflower Wings:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
For the Sesame Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
- Extra sesame seeds
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cauliflower
- Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to form a smooth batter.
- Place the panko breadcrumbs in a separate shallow dish.
2. Coat and Air Fry
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, shaking off the excess.
- Roll the battered cauliflower in the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring a crispy coating.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, then arrange the cauliflower in a single layer.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
3. Make the Sesame Sauce
- In a small saucepan, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes over medium heat.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Coat the Wings
- Remove the crispy cauliflower from the air fryer and toss them in the warm sesame sauce until well coated.
5. Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with sliced green onions and extra sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately with extra sauce for dipping!
Tips
✔ Extra Crispy? Double-coat the cauliflower by dipping it back into the batter and breadcrumbs before air frying.
✔ Spice It Up! Add sriracha or chili paste to the sesame sauce for extra heat.
✔ No Air Fryer? Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
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