Sticky, savoury and slightly sweet.
This sticky Sesame Teriyaki Cauliflower dish is addictively delicious. The sauce is simple and quick to make and you could use it with any other vegetables of your liking. A healthy plant-based alternative to the traditional version that will leave you wanting more.

Cauliflower is very high in protein which will leave you feeling full and satisfied. Not only is it high in protein but it is also high in fibre as well as antioxidants. It contains vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron. Cauliflower is also mostly made up of water, which leaves you hydrated.

As you follow my blog, you will notice I really like to use my air fryer whenever I can, but this does not mean you can’t make these meals without one. First you steam the cauliflower for about 8 minutes. Transfer to a baking sheet and toss with sesame oil. Then you can either bake your cauliflower in the air fryer or oven at 400 degrees F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The air fryer I use has 2 racks so I flip the cauliflower and switch the tracks halfway through. Just keep an eye on it as time can vary. Once complete, transfer the charred cauliflower to a bowl.
Sesame seeds are a good source of protein, fibre and healthy fats. They also contain vitamins E and B, and minerals such as calcium. Sesame seeds also have antioxidant properties. They can help fight infections, get rid of bacteria that cause plaque on your teeth and can help lower blood pressure.



Teriyaki Sauce: Mix together coconut aminos, apple cider vinegar, lime juice and coconut sugar. In a small pan over medium-low heat, warm sesame oil. Add in minced garlic and ginger. The quickest way I mince mine is using a food processor. Fry for a couple of minutes and then add in the coconut aminos mixture. Next, add in the arrowroot mixture and simmer on low for about 5 minutes. This will help thicken the mixture giving it the sticky consistency. Once thickened, pour the sauce over the charred cauliflower, sprinkle with sesame seeds and mix.
Arrowroot can boost your immune system, it is full of B vitamins and also supports digestion. It is also rich in minerals such as phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, potassium and sodium.
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Can you make this ahead of time? It is best fresh, but you can certainly reheat it. Best reheated in the air fryer or oven.
Can you use soy sauce instead of coconut aminos? Soy sauce has some unwanted compounds that are not good for your health and that is why I prefer coconut aminos. Coconut aminos contain way less salt than soy sauce making it better for your heart health. Another bonus is that it is low in calories. Coconut aminos are rich in potassium, vitamin B and vitamin C and are also packed with amino acids.
How to serve? I like this best served over rice and topped with green onions, but you can surely eat it by itself or on top of your favourite grain.
Sesame Teriyaki Cauliflower

Sticky, savoury and slightly sweet.
- 1 head of cauliflower
- 2 tbsp sesame oil ((reserve 1 tsp for pan frying))
- ⅛ tsp salt
- 6 tbsp coconut aminos ((or tamari sauce))
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar ((or lemon juice))
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 3 tbsp coconut sugar
- 4 cloves of garlic, (minced)
- ½ tbsp fresh ginger, (minced)
- 2 tsp arrowroot starch
- 1 tbsp water
- 3 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
NOTE: While the cauliflower is being steamed or charred, prep your sauce.
Cauliflower
Break and cut cauliflower into florets.
Steam cauliflower for 8 minutes.
Remove cauliflower and place on a baking sheet. Drizzle with sesame oil and toss with your hands until evenly coated. Sprinkle with salt.
Place cauliflower in an air fryer at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes until charred, flipping halfway through (or bake at 400°F).
Teriyaki Sauce
In a bowl, combine coconut aminos, apple cider vinegar, lime juice and coconut sugar.
Add the reserved 1 teaspoon of sesame oil to a small pan and set to medium-low heat.
Add garlic and ginger and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Combine arrowroot starch and water, mix well, then add the mixture to the pan.
Mix well and cook on low heat for 5 minutes.
Final Step
Toss cauliflower with sauce and sesame seeds.
Serve over rice or anything of your choice. Sprinkle with green onions.
- My air fryer has two racks. When I char the cauliflower in it, I switch the trays as well as flip halfway through.
- I find this dish best served fresh. If you need to reheat it I find it best to use the air fryer or the oven.
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