Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower offers a deliciously spicy and healthier alternative to traditional wings, perfect for those looking for a vegetarian option or anyone who loves the bold taste of Buffalo sauce. This recipe combines the tangy and hot flavors of classic Buffalo wing sauce with the hearty, satisfying texture of cauliflower, all crisped to perfection in an air fryer. It's an easy-to-make appetizer or snack that's sure to please both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup Buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank's)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 (2 pound) cauliflower, broken into florets
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon seasoned salt (such as Lawry's)
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Drizzle of buffalo wing sauce (optional for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the Buffalo wing sauce, melted butter, and honey. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower
Wash the cauliflower and break it into bite-sized florets. Pat dry with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, seasoned salt, and paprika. Whisk until well mixed.
Step 4: Coat the Cauliflower
Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Toss until each piece is evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour mixture.
Step 5: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching for even cooking. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the florets and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until they are golden and crispy.
Step 6: Toss with Sauce
Once all the cauliflower is cooked and crispy, place the florets in a large bowl. Pour the prepared Buffalo sauce over the cauliflower and gently toss to coat evenly.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the Buffalo cauliflower immediately, with an extra drizzle of Buffalo wing sauce if desired. Accompany with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Tips:
- Even Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure the cauliflower cooks evenly and gets crispy.
- Sauce Options: Feel free to adjust the heat level of the sauce by using a milder or hotter Buffalo sauce according to your taste preference.
- Serving: This dish is best served fresh from the air fryer while the cauliflower is crispy and warm.
Serving Suggestions:
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is perfect as a game-day snack, appetizer, or a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of dips and is a great way to spice up your vegetable intake.
Prep Time:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Conclusion
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is a flavorful, spicy, and healthier snack that's easy to make and sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you're catering to vegetarians or simply looking for a delicious way to enjoy cauliflower, this recipe offers the perfect combination of heat, flavor, and crunch.
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