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Air Fryer Sesame Cauliflower Wings

Turn simple cauliflower into crispy, sticky bites packed with bold sesame flavor using minimal oil in this delightful air fryer recipe.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: Asian, Vegan, Vegetarian
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk For vegan, replace with unsweetened plant milk.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil spray
Sauce Ingredients
  • ⅓ cup soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp honey For vegan, replace with maple syrup.
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch To thicken sauce.
  • 2 tbsp water To mix with cornstarch.
  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds For garnish.
  • sliced green onions For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add milk and mix until smooth batter forms.
  4. Dip cauliflower florets into the batter, letting excess drip off.
  5. Place in air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray with oil.
Cooking
  1. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until lightly golden.
  2. In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic over medium heat.
  3. Stir in cornstarch slurry and simmer until the sauce thickens.
  4. Toss partially cooked cauliflower with half the sauce.
  5. Return to air fryer at 390°F (199°C) for 5–8 minutes until caramelized.
  6. Transfer to a plate, drizzle remaining sauce, and top with sesame seeds and green onions.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in air fryer at 370°F for 3–4 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep coating crisp. Freeze before saucing for the best texture.