Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to ensure it crisps up in the air fryer.
How do I know when the cauliflower is cooked?
The cauliflower is done when it’s golden brown and crispy on the outside. It should also be tender when pierced with a fork.
What can I substitute for buffalo sauce?
If you’re not a fan of buffalo sauce, you can use BBQ sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even a honey mustard glaze for a different flavor profile.
How long does this dish stay fresh?
Buffalo Cauliflower can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to reheat it in the air fryer to keep it crispy.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, and even Brussels sprouts can be added to the mix for a delicious medley of flavors and textures.
Recipe
Buffalo Cauliflower has taken the culinary world by storm, and it’s easy to see why. This plant-based dish delivers all the bold flavors and satisfying crunch of buffalo wings but without the meat. Cauliflower, with its mild flavor and hearty texture, is the ideal vegetable to soak up that spicy buffalo sauce. And with the convenience of an air fryer, you can achieve that perfect crispiness in a fraction of the time and with a lot less oil.
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
Instructions
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are uniform in size for 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 coat the cauliflower but still pourable. - Coat the Cauliflower:
Add the cauliflower florets to the batter, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Shake off any excess batter before placing them in the air fryer. - Air Fry the Cauliflower:
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Place the battered cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches.
Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking, until the cauliflower is 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 is done, place it in a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the cauliflower and toss until each floret is evenly coated. - Serve:
Serve the buffalo cauliflower immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese, and some celery sticks on the side.
Notes
- Cauliflower Size: Cut the cauliflower into similar-sized florets to ensure even cooking.
- Buffalo Sauce: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce according to your spice preference. For a milder version, mix the buffalo sauce with additional butter.
- Crispiness: For extra crispy cauliflower, you can air fry the coated cauliflower florets for an additional 2-3 minutes before tossing them in the buffalo sauce.
- Serving Suggestion: Buffalo cauliflower is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or a side dish, and pairs well with cooling dips like ranch or blue cheese.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer to retain crispiness.
