Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe

Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes, and when you make Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower, you’ll experience the perfect balance of crispy texture and spicy flavor. This recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings, and it’s incredibly easy to make in the air fryer. With a light batter and tangy buffalo sauce, these crispy bites are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a side dish for your favorite meals.

Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or looking for a fun way to add more vegetables to your diet, this air fryer buffalo cauliflower recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for more. Plus, it’s much quicker and less messy than deep-frying, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthy and Guilt-Free

This buffalo cauliflower recipe is a great alternative to fried buffalo wings. It’s made with cauliflower, a nutritious vegetable that’s packed with fiber and antioxidants, making it a healthier option.

2. Quick and Easy

Using an air fryer makes the cooking process quick and hassle-free. With just a few simple steps, you can have crispy, flavorful buffalo cauliflower in under 30 minutes.

3. Customizable Spice Level

You can adjust the heat by controlling the amount of buffalo sauce. Add more sauce for a spicier kick or tone it down for a milder flavor.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re having a casual snack, a party, or a cozy dinner, these buffalo cauliflower bites are a perfect addition to any spread. They’re a great choice for vegetarians, too.

5. Minimal Cleanup

The air fryer makes it easy to cook without all the mess of traditional frying. There’s no need for oil splatters or deep fryer cleanup, making this recipe much more convenient.

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Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 3/4 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• Cooking spray

Variations

• Spicy Ranch Buffalo Cauliflower: For an extra creamy flavor, drizzle your cooked buffalo cauliflower with ranch dressing or dip it in a ranch sauce.
• Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, simply use a plant-based butter and vegan buffalo sauce.
• Add Cheese: For an extra indulgent twist, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the cauliflower before air frying for a cheesy buffalo cauliflower.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Start by cutting the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. This will ensure that each piece cooks evenly and gets crispy in the air fryer.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but still have some fluidity.

Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess batter before placing the cauliflower on a plate or tray.

Step 4: Air Fry the Cauliflower

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the battered cauliflower florets in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Make the Buffalo Sauce

While the cauliflower is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, add the buffalo sauce and stir to combine. Keep it warm.

Step 6: Toss the Cauliflower in the Sauce

Once the cauliflower is crispy and golden, remove it from the air fryer. Place the cauliflower florets in a large bowl and pour the buffalo sauce over them. Gently toss to coat the cauliflower evenly in the sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the buffalo cauliflower immediately as a snack or appetizer. Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Make sure to leave space between the cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket to allow the air to circulate and create a crispy texture.
• Use Parchment Paper: If you’re concerned about the cauliflower sticking to the basket, you can use air fryer parchment paper, but make sure to cut it to fit your air fryer’s size.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or use a mild buffalo sauce. You can always add more sauce if you like it spicy!
• Crispier Cauliflower: For even crispier results, give the cauliflower a light spray of cooking oil before air frying, or cook for a couple of extra minutes.

How to Serve

This air fryer buffalo cauliflower recipe is great as a standalone snack or appetizer, but it also pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or a light vegetable dip. It’s also perfect as a topping for a grain bowl, tacos, or wraps.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover buffalo cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While it can be reheated, the cauliflower may lose some of its crispiness after storing.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked buffalo cauliflower for up to 1 month. To freeze, place the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer the florets to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) until hot and crispy.

Reheating

To reheat, place the cauliflower in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. You can also reheat in the oven at 375°F for 8-10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?

It’s best to use fresh cauliflower for this recipe, as frozen cauliflower tends to be softer and may not crisp up as well in the air fryer.

2. Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the cauliflower in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

3. Is buffalo cauliflower spicy?

Buffalo cauliflower can be as spicy as you want it to be, depending on the buffalo sauce you use. Adjust the spice level by using a milder or spicier sauce.

4. Can I use a different sauce instead of buffalo sauce?

Yes! You can use barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, or any other sauce you like for a different flavor profile.

5. How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make the recipe vegan, use a plant-based butter and make sure the buffalo sauce is vegan-friendly.

6. Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, you can sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the cauliflower during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy, buffalo cauliflower dish.

7. Can I skip the batter?

The batter gives the cauliflower a crispy texture. Skipping it will result in a softer texture, but you can try using a light coating of olive oil for a similar result.

8. Can I air fry this cauliflower in batches?

Yes, if you have a smaller air fryer, it’s better to cook the cauliflower in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure crispy results.

9. How can I make the buffalo cauliflower less messy?

Serve the buffalo cauliflower with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping to keep the sauce from splattering.

10. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is a flavorful, crispy, and healthy snack or appetizer that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can enjoy this spicy treat in no time. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a delicious snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Try it out and enjoy the crispy, tangy goodness of buffalo cauliflower in the comfort of your own home!

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