Description
A quick and easy recipe for Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower that is vegan and perfect for a spicy appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 24 oz (2.5 lb, approx. 4 cups) cauliflower, chopped into small florets
- 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp (2g) garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp (2g) onion powder
- 1/2 tsp (2g) paprika
- 1/2 tsp (3g) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper
- 1/4 cup (60ml) water
- 1/4 cup (60ml) buffalo-style wing sauce
- Chopped chives or parsley for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 375 degrees F for that crispy texture. This should take just a few minutes. Avoid rushing this step as entering with a cold fryer can lead to soggier bites.
- Toss Cauliflower in Seasoning: In a large bowl, mix the cauliflower florets with cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. The mixture should feel tacky but not soaked. This even coating is crucial for the buffalo sauce to adhere later.
- Add to Air Fryer Basket: Place the seasoned florets into the air fryer basket, spreading them out in a single layer. This is important to ensure an even crispiness. Ensure they are snug but not overcrowded for the best results.
- Cook Until Crispy: Air fry the cauliflower at 375 degrees F for about 15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through for even cooking. A tempting spicy aroma will fill your kitchen, but resist the urge to keep peeking, as opening the air fryer lets heat escape.
- Coat in Buffalo Sauce: Once cooked, transfer the florets to a bowl and drizzle on your buffalo sauce. Toss them gently until well coated, enjoying the spicy scent. If they are not coated well enough, the sauce might not stick properly.
- Return to Air Fryer: Put the sauced florets back into the air fryer for a few more minutes. Watch for the satisfying sizzle and monitor them carefully; overcooking can lead to burning.
- Serve & Enjoy: Once done, serve immediately for the best taste and texture. The crispy outer layer and spicy flavor are sure to please. Keep them warm, as they cool quickly and may soften.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat in the oven or air fryer.
- Expert Tips: If using frozen cauliflower, thaw and pat it dry to prevent sogginess during cooking. Ensure florets are uniform in size for consistent cooking. For added richness, melt a tablespoon of vegan butter and mix with buffalo sauce before tossing. If your cauliflower is soft instead of crispy, add an additional 3-5 minutes of cooking time in the air fryer. For better sauce adherence, ensure each floret is fully coated in the cornstarch mixture before adding the sauce.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with ranch or blue cheese dressing. Serve alongside crunchy veggie sticks like carrots and celery. Add to a platter with other appetizers for variety.
- Recipe Variations: Mix in different spices like cumin or smoked paprika for varied flavor. Drizzle with vegan ranch dressing before serving or try different hot sauces for varying heat levels.
- Ingredient Notes: Use fresh cauliflower for optimal texture. The cornstarch can be substituted with arrowroot if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 76
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 804mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg