Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a healthier, crispy, and flavorful alternative to traditional buffalo wings, Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is the perfect recipe for you! This dish combines the bold, tangy flavor of buffalo sauce with the light, crispy texture of air-fried cauliflower, creating a delicious, guilt-free snack or appetizer. By using an air fryer, you get that satisfying crunch without the need for deep frying, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing taste. The cauliflower is coated in a flavorful batter made with all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and a blend of spices, and then air-fried to crispy perfection. Once it’s done, the cauliflower is generously brushed with buffalo sauce, giving it the classic spicy kick that buffalo lovers crave. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian snack, a party appetizer, or just a healthier alternative to wings, this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe will hit the spot. Pair it with a cool vegan ranch dip for the ultimate comfort food experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthy Alternative: This recipe uses the air fryer to achieve a crispy texture without the excess oil, making it a healthier version of classic buffalo wings.
2. Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, onion powder, paprika, and buffalo sauce gives each bite of cauliflower a bold and spicy kick.
3. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and the convenience of the air fryer, you can have this dish ready in less than 30 minutes.
4. Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is completely plant-based, making it perfect for those following a vegan diet.
5. Customizable: Adjust the level of heat by adding more or less buffalo sauce, and feel free to serve with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Sea salt
• Water
• Head of cauliflower (broken into large florets)
• Buffalo sauce (for brushing)
• Vegan ranch (for dipping, optional)

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Add Extra Spice: If you like your buffalo cauliflower extra spicy, add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the batter.
• Different Sauces: While buffalo sauce is the classic choice, you can try other sauces like BBQ sauce or a sweet chili glaze for a different flavor.
• Baking Option: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the cauliflower in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Start by cutting the cauliflower into large florets, making sure they are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, sea salt, and water. The batter should be smooth and thick enough to coat the cauliflower florets evenly.

Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure it’s completely coated. Shake off any excess batter before placing the florets in the air fryer basket.

Step 4: Air Fry the Cauliflower

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crisping. The cauliflower should be golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Brush with Buffalo Sauce

Once the cauliflower is cooked, brush it generously with buffalo sauce on all sides. Return the cauliflower to the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to set.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the cauliflower from the air fryer and serve it hot. Optionally, serve with a side of vegan ranch for dipping and extra buffalo sauce for an added kick.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook the cauliflower in batches to ensure each piece gets crispy.
• Use a Parchment Liner: If you’re concerned about the batter sticking to the air fryer basket, you can line the basket with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
• Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a milder flavor, use less buffalo sauce or mix it with a bit of melted vegan butter to tone down the heat.
• Crispier Cauliflower: For an even crispier texture, spray the cauliflower with a bit of cooking oil before air frying.

How to Serve

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is perfect on its own as a snack or appetizer. Serve it with a side of vegan ranch, celery sticks, or carrot sticks for that classic buffalo wing experience. It also makes a great addition to a vegan taco night, a salad, or a plant-based bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the buffalo cauliflower to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

Freezing

For freezing, place the cooked cauliflower florets on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the florets to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.

Reheating

Reheat leftover cauliflower in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore its crispy texture. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the cauliflower in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.

2. How spicy is this buffalo cauliflower?

The spiciness can be adjusted depending on the amount of buffalo sauce you use. For a milder version, use less buffalo sauce or mix it with a bit of vegan butter.

3. Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but be sure to thaw and pat it dry before coating it in the batter. This will ensure that the cauliflower gets crispy in the air fryer.

4. Can I make the batter ahead of time?

You can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to give it a good stir before using it.

5. Can I make these cauliflower florets spicier?

Yes, you can add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or extra buffalo sauce to the batter or on top of the cauliflower for additional heat.

6. Can I serve buffalo cauliflower with ranch dressing?

Yes, vegan ranch dressing pairs perfectly with buffalo cauliflower and helps balance out the spiciness.

7. How do I prevent the batter from sticking to the air fryer?

To prevent sticking, spray the air fryer basket with oil before adding the cauliflower, and make sure to shake the basket halfway through cooking.

8. Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend if needed for a gluten-free version.

9. Can I add other seasonings to the batter?

Feel free to experiment by adding seasonings like smoked paprika, onion powder, or even a bit of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

10. How do I know when the cauliflower is done?

The cauliflower is done when it is golden brown, crispy on the edges, and can be easily pierced with a fork.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is a simple, healthy, and incredibly delicious dish that brings the flavors of classic buffalo wings into a plant-based form. Whether you’re following a vegan diet or just looking for a healthier snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. With the perfect balance of spice and crunch, it’s a great option for any occasion, from parties to weeknight dinners. Try it with a side of vegan ranch and enjoy a guilt-free treat that everyone will love!

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