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These crispy buffalo cauliflower bites deliver all the fiery flavor and crunch of classic wings in a lighter plant-based form. An instant crowd-pleaser they are perfect for snacks game days or adding punch to a party spread.
My family never misses game day without these. The first time I made them even my most skeptical friends went back for seconds.
Ingredients
- Cauliflower florets: provide the hearty bite and soak up the flavor Choose a firm fresh head with tight white florets for best texture
- All purpose flour: helps create a light crispy coating Use a high quality unbleached flour for best results
- Water: brings the batter together Cold water helps keep the coating light
- Garlic powder and onion powder: infuse the batter with savory flavor Use fresh spices for the boldest taste
- Smoked paprika: adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color Try to use a Spanish or Hungarian variety for more complex flavor
- Salt and black pepper: season the batter If possible use fine sea salt and freshly ground pepper
- Buffalo sauce: brings that tangy spicy kick Opt for a sauce with simple ingredients and no artificial additives
- Unsalted butter: mellows out the buffalo sauce and helps coat the cauliflower For a vegan option use plant based butter
- Cooking spray: prevents sticking and promotes extra crispiness Look for a neutral nonstick spray with no added flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Wash and dry the cauliflower thoroughly then cut it into bite sized florets Try to make them all roughly the same size so they cook evenly and crisp up well
- Make the Batter:
- In a large bowl whisk together the all purpose flour water garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika salt and black pepper Mix until the batter is smooth and pourable but still thick enough to cling to the cauliflower
- Coat the Cauliflower:
- Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until each piece is evenly coated with batter Lift each floret and gently shake off extra batter before placing them on a plate or tray
- Air Fry the Cauliflower:
- Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and let it preheat for about three minutes Spray the basket lightly with cooking spray Place the battered cauliflower in a single layer without crowding the basket Work in batches if needed Air fry for twelve to fifteen minutes shaking the basket halfway through The cauliflower should be golden and crispy by the end
- Prepare the Buffalo Sauce:
- Melt the unsalted butter in a small bowl and stir in the buffalo sauce Whisk until totally combined and smooth
- Toss the Cauliflower in Buffalo Sauce:
- When the cauliflower is crisp and golden transfer it to a clean large bowl Drizzle over the prepared buffalo sauce Then toss thoroughly so each floret is glossy and coated
- Serve:
- Transfer straight to a serving platter Serve immediately while hot Pair with cooling dips like ranch or blue cheese and some crunchy celery sticks
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I love how the smoked paprika shapes the batter with just a hint of warmth It always takes me back to the first backyard party where these kicked off a flurry of high fives and recipe requests
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days The coating will soften over time so to reheat arrange the pieces in a single layer in your air fryer and heat at 350 degrees until just crisp again
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap all purpose flour for chickpea flour to make it gluten free Use plant based butter or even olive oil in the buffalo sauce for a vegan option If you do not have smoked paprika try sweet paprika with a dash of cayenne
Serving Suggestions
These taste best fresh and hot as an appetizer Compliment with cool dips like vegan ranch or tangy yogurt sauce They are also excellent as a taco filling or piled on a grain bowl with lots of fresh herbs and pickled veggies
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Cultural Notes
Buffalo cauliflower draws inspiration from classic buffalo wings found in New York It is a staple in modern vegan and vegetarian American cuisine and celebrated for bringing everyone together on game day or at gatherings regardless of dietary preference
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes this buffalo cauliflower crispy?
Air frying the battered cauliflower ensures a crunchy, golden exterior while keeping the inside tender.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for similar texture and results.
- → How spicy is the buffalo sauce?
The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce used; adjust by adding more butter for a milder flavor.
- → What dipping sauces pair well?
Classic choices include ranch or blue cheese dressing; vegan options are great for plant-based diets.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days and reheat in the air fryer for crispiness.
- → Can I bake instead of air fry?
Yes, bake coated cauliflower on a lined baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) until crisp, flipping halfway through.