Fried Cauliflower with Sesame and Hoisin

Crispy, deep-fried cauliflower bites served with a sesame-hoisin sauce are a perfect appetizer for game day.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Calories: 2214 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 cup tempura batter mix
• 5 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
• 4 cups vegetable oil for frying, or as needed
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.25 cup hoisin sauce
• 0.75 cup ice cold water

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Combine tempura mix and water in a bowl; whisk until blended. Set bowl into a larger bowl filled with ice cubes to keep cold.

Step 2

Mix hoisin sauce, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, vinegar, soy sauce, sesame seeds, and garlic powder together in a small bowl.

Step 3

Dip cauliflower into the tempura batter and set on a plate to let excess batter drip off.

Step 4

Combine vegetable oil and remaining 3 tablespoons sesame oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat; bring temperature up to 350 to 375 degrees F (175 to 190 degrees C).

Step 5

Deep-fry cauliflower florets in batches until golden brown, 4 to 6 minutes per batch. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 6

Serve with hoisin mixture drizzled on top, or on the side for dipping.