Description
Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is a perfect spicy vegan appetizer or snack. Battered cauliflower florets are air fried to golden perfection, then tossed in a tangy buffalo sauce for a delicious, healthy alternative to traditional buffalo wings.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower Batter
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Buffalo Sauce Coating
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for a richer sauce)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat to ensure even cooking and crispy results.
- Prepare the batter: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until smooth, forming a thin batter perfect for coating the cauliflower.
- Coat the cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the prepared batter, making sure each piece is fully covered. Gently shake off any excess batter to avoid clumping and allow for better crisping.
- Arrange in air fryer: Place the battered cauliflower florets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding by working in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Air fry until crispy: Cook the cauliflower for 12-15 minutes, shaking or tossing the basket halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning and crispiness.
- Mix buffalo sauce: While the cauliflower is cooking, combine the buffalo sauce and melted butter in a bowl for a richer, well-rounded flavor.
- Toss cauliflower in sauce: Once the florets are crispy, toss them thoroughly in the buffalo sauce mixture until each piece is evenly coated.
- Set the sauce: Return the coated cauliflower to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This step helps the sauce adhere better and slightly caramelizes the buffalo coating.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces and crisp celery sticks for a classic buffalo snack experience.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, make sure the cauliflower pieces are dry before dipping into the batter.
- You can adjust the amount of buffalo sauce according to your spice preference.
- Use vegan butter or omit it to keep this recipe completely vegan.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crispiest texture.
- Try pairing with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
