Description
This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe is a delicious and healthier twist on classic buffalo wings. Crispy cauliflower florets are coated in a flavorful batter, air-fried to perfection, then tossed in a tangy buffalo sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, this vegan-friendly appetizer is perfect for game day, parties, or a spicy snack anytime.
Ingredients
Cauliflower and Batter
- 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
Buffalo Sauce
- 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
- To ensure even cooking, make sure cauliflower florets are similar in size.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed for crispy results.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, add extra buffalo sauce or hot sauce.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the air fryer for best texture.
