A Spicy Take on a Classic Snack
Who doesn’t love the spicy kick of buffalo sauce? Now, imagine that flavor wrapped around crispy, tender cauliflower. You’ve got yourself an incredible appetizer or side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s deliciously satisfying and can make even the pickiest of eaters fall in love with veggies. 🥦🔥
Why Make This Recipe
Let’s be real: not everyone loves veggies, but buffalo cauliflower might just change their minds. This recipe is not just easy, but it’s also a healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings. Plus, it’s vegan, which is a huge win for all our plant-based pals out there.
Here’s why you should definitely add this to your cooking lineup:
- Quick and Easy: Whip it up in under 30 minutes.
- Healthier Option: Less oil and calories than deep-frying.
- Party Perfect: Impress your guests at game day or potlucks.
- Customizable: Adjust that heat level to your liking. 🌶️
How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe
Ready to get your cook on? Making air fryer buffalo cauliflower is super simple, and you won’t even need to raid your pantry for a ton of ingredients. Just grab the essentials and let’s dive in.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower – cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter – melted
- Cooking spray
Directions:
Prepare the Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, aiming for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to cling to the cauliflower!
Coat the Cauliflower: Toss those florets in the batter until they’re well-coated. Don’t be shy; shake off any excess batter before they hit the air fryer.
Air Fry the Cauliflower: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. Lightly spray that air fryer basket with cooking spray, then arrange the battered florets in a single layer. No crowding please! Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Prepare the Buffalo Sauce: While the cauliflower is cooking, mix the buffalo sauce with the melted butter in a small bowl.
Toss the Cauliflower in Buffalo Sauce: Once the cauliflower finishes cooking, place it in a large bowl and toss with the buffalo sauce until every floret is coated.
Serve: Plate your buffalo cauliflower hot, maybe with a side of ranch or blue cheese and some crunchy celery sticks. Yum! 😋
How to Serve Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe
This dish is all about that fun, finger-food vibe. Serve it as an appetizer, a party snack, or even as a main course with a side salad. Pairing it up with some creamy dip really enhances the flavors and mellows out some of that heat. Seriously, your guests will be begging for your recipe!
How to Store Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe
If, by some miracle, you have leftovers (we doubt it 😜), store the buffalo cauliflower in an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge where it’ll last for about 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer to get that crispy goodness back, instead of the sogginess you’d get from the microwave.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe
- Cut Evenly: Make sure those cauliflower florets are the same size for even cooking.
- Adjust the Spice: If you want it milder, mix in some ranch seasoning or use a milder buffalo sauce.
- Extra Crisp: For even more crunch, toss the florets in some panko breadcrumbs before air frying. 💥
Variation (If Any)
Feel free to experiment! Here are some variations to switch things up:
- Alternative Breadcrumb Coating: Try using crushed cornflakes or almond flour for a gluten-free option.
- Different Sauces: Swap buffalo sauce for BBQ sauce or teriyaki sauce for a fun twist.
- Add Veggies: Mix in some sliced bell peppers or carrots in the batter for added flavor and color.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or even chickpea flour.
2. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and pat it dry. Frozen cauliflower may need additional cooking time.
3. What should I serve with it?
Pair it with dips like ranch, blue cheese, or even guacamole for a fun flavor combo.
Now go on and impress your friends with this spicy, crispy delight! They won’t even realize they’re eating vegetables. Enjoy! 🎉
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower
- 1 medium head medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Can be substituted with gluten-free flour for gluten-free option.
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 cup buffalo sauce Store-bought or homemade.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Cooking spray To spray the air fryer basket.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, aiming for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to cling to the cauliflower.
- Toss the florets in the batter until they’re well-coated. Shake off any excess batter before placing them in the air fryer.
Cooking
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, then arrange the battered florets in a single layer.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the florets are golden brown and crispy.
- While the cauliflower is cooking, mix the buffalo sauce with the melted butter in a small bowl.
- Once the cauliflower finishes cooking, place it in a large bowl and toss with the buffalo sauce until every floret is coated.
- Plate your buffalo cauliflower hot, and serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese and some crunchy celery sticks.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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