Description:
These air fryer buffalo cauliflower bites are crispy, spicy, and a perfect plant-based alternative to buffalo wings. Ideal as an appetizer, snack, or game-day treat, they pair wonderfully with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 4 people
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative)
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crispiness)
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, paprika, and salt until smooth.
- Place breadcrumbs in a separate bowl.
- Coat the Cauliflower:
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip off, and then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Place coated florets on a plate or tray.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Cook the Cauliflower:
- Arrange the coated cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Toss in Buffalo Sauce:
- In a large bowl, mix buffalo sauce and melted butter. Toss the cooked cauliflower bites in the sauce until fully coated.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks for dipping.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 170
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
Notes:
- For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper to the batter or choose an extra-hot buffalo sauce.
- Adjust cooking time based on the size of the cauliflower florets.
- For a vegan option, replace butter with a plant-based alternative.
Enjoy these crispy, zesty cauliflower bites that pack all the flavor of buffalo wings with none of the guilt!