Craving the bold flavors of buffalo wings but looking for a lighter option? Look no further than Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower! This recipe transforms humble cauliflower florets into crispy, spicy bites that are perfect for a game day snack, appetizer, or even a vegetarian main course.
Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower:
- Healthier Indulgence: Compared to traditional buffalo wings, this recipe offers a lighter and lower-calorie option without sacrificing on flavor.
- Crispy Perfection: The air fryer creates a perfectly crisp exterior for the cauliflower, while the inside remains tender and flavorful.
- Spicy Satisfaction: Whether you prefer a mild buffalo kick or a fiery inferno, you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds.
- Versatility Reigns: Enjoy this buffalo cauliflower on its own with your favorite dipping sauce, or incorporate it into salads, wraps, or rice bowls for a burst of flavor and texture.
Crafting Your Air Fryer Masterpiece:
- Crispy Cauliflower Florets: The key to this dish is achieving a beautiful golden brown crisp without overcooking the cauliflower.
- Flavorful Buffalo Sauce: A homemade buffalo sauce or your favorite store-bought variety coats the cauliflower in a symphony of spicy and tangy flavors.
- Optional Extras: Feel free to experiment with different toppings like crumbled blue cheese, chopped celery, or a drizzle of ranch dressing for a touch of creaminess.
Ready to Take Flight? Here’s what you’ll need (quantities may vary depending on your preference):
- Ingredients:
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika for a deeper flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/3 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot or Cholula)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
- (Optional) 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
- (Optional) Chopped celery for garnish
- (Optional) Ranch dressing for dipping
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Prep the Cauliflower: In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure the florets are evenly coated.
- Create the Buffalo Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together the hot sauce and melted butter or olive oil.
- Air Fry Time!: Arrange the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and crisping. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally, until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender-crisp.
- Get Saucy: Once the cauliflower is cooked, toss it with the buffalo sauce mixture until evenly coated.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate your Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower and garnish with crumbled blue cheese and chopped celery (optional). Serve with ranch dressing for dipping, if desired.
Tips:
- For extra crispy cauliflower, preheat the air fryer for a few minutes before adding the florets.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your desired spice level.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, although the cauliflower may lose some of its crispness.
Final Thoughts:
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is a delicious and versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings, packed with flavor and satisfying texture. So ditch the deep fryer, grab your air fryer, and experience the crispy, spicy joy of this guilt-free indulgence!
