Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Equipment
- 1 Air fryer
- 1 Mixing bowls (2)
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Tongs
- 1 Baking sheet (optional for cooling)
- 1 Basting brush
Ingredients
- 1 medium head Cauliflower Florets
- 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 2 tbsp Cornstarch
- 1/2 cup Unsweetened Almond Milk
- 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tbsp Paprika
- 1 tbsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Buffalo Sauce
- 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil Spray
- 2 tbsp Butter (Melted)
- Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing
Notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
- Gradually add almond milk, whisking until a smooth batter forms.
Step 2: Coat the Cauliflower
- Add the cauliflower florets to the batter and toss until evenly coated.
- Shake off any excess batter before placing the florets on a plate or tray.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Step 4: Air Fry the Cauliflower
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with vegetable oil spray.
- Arrange the battered cauliflower florets in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch or overlap.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Step 5: Toss in Buffalo Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix the buffalo sauce and melted butter until well combined.
- Use tongs to transfer the cooked cauliflower florets to a mixing bowl.
- Pour the buffalo sauce over the florets and gently toss to coat.
Step 6: Finish in the Air Fryer (Optional)
- For extra crispiness, return the sauced cauliflower to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Allow the bites to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
- Ensure Even Coating: Toss the cauliflower thoroughly in the batter to ensure even crispiness.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid soggy bites.
- Adjust Spice Level: Mix buffalo sauce with honey or barbecue sauce for a milder flavor.
Side Dish and Beverage Pairings
- Side Suggestions: Serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Beverage Pairings: Pair with an ice-cold beer, sparkling water, or a refreshing iced tea.
Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Extra Crispy: Add 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs to the batter for an additional crunch.
- Sweet and Spicy: Combine buffalo sauce with a tablespoon of honey for a sweet and spicy glaze.
