Crispy Air Fryer Sesame Cauliflower Wings: A Vegan Delight (Print Version)

Crispy Air Fryer Sesame Cauliflower Wings are a vegan appetizer dream! Learn my easy recipe for crunchy, flavorful bites, perfect for any snack time.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Dietary: Vegan, Plant-based

# Ingredients:

→ Cauliflower Base

01 - 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

→ Crispy Coating

02 - ½ cup all-purpose flour
03 - ¼ cup cornstarch
04 - 1 tsp garlic powder
05 - 1 tsp onion powder
06 - ½ tsp smoked paprika
07 - ½ tsp salt
08 - ¼ tsp black pepper
09 - ¾ cup unsweetened plant milk (almond, soy, or oat)

→ Sesame Glaze

10 - ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
11 - 2 tbsp rice vinegar
12 - 2 tbsp maple syrup
13 - 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
14 - 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

→ Finishing Touches

15 - 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
16 - 2 tbsp green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, get your cauliflower ready! Wash and pat those florets dry, then chop them into bite-sized pieces. While you're at it, grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, pour in your plant milk. This is where the assembly line begins, and my kitchen usually starts looking like a cooking show set, but messier.
02 - Now for the fun part! Dip each cauliflower floret into the plant milk, letting any excess drip off. Then, dredge it through the dry flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Don't be shy; really press that coating on there. I've definitely had moments where I thought, "Is this enough?" and it wasn't. So, coat them well! Lay them out on a clean plate as you go. This step takes a minute, but it's crucial for that crispy outer layer.
03 - Time for the air fryer! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Arrange your coated cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don't overcrowd it, or they won't get crispy, trust me. I learned that the hard way with a sad, soggy batch. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You're looking for a beautiful golden-brown color and a satisfying crunch when you poke them. The smell, oh, the smell is incredible at this stage!
04 - While the cauliflower is crisping, let's make that glorious sauce. In a small saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, toasted sesame oil, and grated fresh ginger. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon. If it gets too thick, a tiny splash of water helps. This sauce is what truly elevates these Crispy Air Fryer Sesame Cauliflower Wings.
05 - Once your Crispy Air Fryer Sesame Cauliflower Wings are perfectly golden and crunchy, transfer them to a large clean bowl. Pour that warm, sticky sesame sauce all over the florets. Toss gently to coat every single piece evenly. This is where they transform from crispy bites to truly irresistible, glossy wings. I always get a little excited at this point, maybe even sneak a taste, shhh!
06 - Finally, transfer your glazed Crispy Air Fryer Sesame Cauliflower Wings to a serving platter. Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds and, if you're feeling fancy, some sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve them immediately while they’re still warm and wonderfully crispy. They look so inviting, and honestly, they disappear fast! This dish always brings smiles to my table.

# Notes:

01 - Always pat your cauliflower florets *really* dry before coating; excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness, I learned that the hard way.
02 - Don't overcrowd your air fryer basket; work in batches if you need to, or they won't get that signature crisp.
03 - I love serving these with a side of steamed jasmine rice for a more complete meal, or just as a snack with a good book!
04 - If you're out of fresh ginger, a tiny bit of ground ginger can work in a pinch, but fresh really makes the sauce sing.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Air fryer
02 - large mixing bowls
03 - whisk
04 - small saucepan

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 250
Total Fat: 12g
Total Carbohydrate: 30g
Protein: 8g

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