Crispy Honey Garlic Cauliflower Bites

🕒 Time

Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 25–30 minutes
Total: ~45–50 minutes

🍽 Serves

3–4 people

🛒 Ingredients

For the Cauliflower

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 tbsp cornstarch

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 cup cold water (or buttermilk for richer flavor)

• Oil for frying

For the Honey Garlic Sauce

• 3 tbsp honey

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to spice level)

• 1 tbsp ketchup

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)

• 1 tsp grated ginger (optional but recommended)

• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry)

Garnish

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

• 1 tbsp dried parsley or fresh chopped cilantro

• Extra chili flakes (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower

1. Wash and thoroughly dry cauliflower.

2. Cut into evenly sized florets for even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Batter

1. In a bowl, whisk flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Slowly add cold water, whisking until smooth.

3. Batter should be thick enough to coat but not too runny.

Tip: If too thick → add 1 tbsp water at a time.
If too thin → add 1 tbsp flour.

Step 3: Fry the Cauliflower

1. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

2. Dip florets into batter, letting excess drip off.

3. Fry in batches 4–5 minutes until golden and crisp.

4. Remove and drain on paper towel.

🔥 Extra Crispy Tip: Double fry!
Let cool 5 minutes, then fry again for 1–2 minutes.

🧄 Make the Sauce

1. In a pan over medium heat, add honey, soy sauce, garlic, sriracha, ketchup, vinegar, and ginger.

2. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

3. Stir in cornstarch slurry.

4. Cook 1–2 minutes until glossy and sticky.

5. Turn off heat.

🥢 Toss & Finish

1. Add crispy cauliflower to the sauce.

2. Toss gently until fully coated.

3. Plate immediately.

4. Sprinkle sesame seeds and herbs on top.

Serve hot for maximum crispiness!

🔥 Flavor Profile

• Crispy outside

• Tender inside

• Sweet & sticky

• Garlicky

• Slight spicy kick

• Savory umami balance

🥗 Serving Ideas

• Over jasmine rice

• In lettuce wraps

• As party appetizer

• In tacos

• With steamed broccoli & rice bowl

🥦 Healthier Options

Air Fryer Version

1. Spray battered cauliflower lightly with oil.

2. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes.

3. Shake halfway.

4. Toss in sauce after cooking.

Oven Version

1. Place on parchment-lined tray.

2. Bake 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes.

3. Flip halfway.

💡 Pro Tips

✔ Dry cauliflower well before battering
✔ Don’t overcrowd oil
✔ Toss in sauce right before serving
✔ Add 1 tsp sesame oil to sauce for deeper flavor