Why Make This Recipe
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is a tasty and healthy alternative to traditional buffalo wings. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a spicy snack without meat. The air fryer gives the cauliflower a crispy texture, while the buffalo sauce adds a kick of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just craving a crunchy treat, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
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, 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, making sure 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 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.
How to Serve Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it hot with dips like ranch or blue cheese. Add some crunchy celery sticks on the side for a nice contrast. This dish also works well as an appetizer at parties or as a yummy side for a casual meal.
How to Store Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
If you have leftovers, let the buffalo cauliflower cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain its crispiness.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
- Make sure to cut the cauliflower into even-sized florets to ensure even cooking.
- For a thicker batter, you can reduce the amount of water slightly.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to help all sides get crispy.
- Experiment with different sauces and seasonings to find your favorite flavor.
Variations
You can try different spice blends or sauces to customize your buffalo cauliflower. For a milder flavor, use a sweet chili sauce instead of buffalo sauce. You can also add a bit of cheese on top for a cheesy twist!
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but make sure to thaw and dry it well before coating it in batter to avoid excess moisture.Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, if you use a vegan butter substitute, this recipe can be made completely vegan.Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the cauliflower in a regular oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A tasty and healthy alternative to traditional buffalo wings, these air fryer buffalo cauliflower bites are crispy, spicy, and perfect for any occasion.
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.
- Coat the Cauliflower: Add the cauliflower florets to the batter, making sure 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 basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking.
- 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 and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve: Serve the buffalo cauliflower immediately with your favorite dipping sauce and celery sticks on the side.
Notes
This dish is best enjoyed fresh. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: air fryer, buffalo cauliflower, vegan appetizer, healthy snack, game day recipe