Image Source from losuter

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites Recipe

If you’re looking for a deliciously spicy snack or a healthy appetizer, look no further than Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites. This tasty dish transforms humble cauliflower into a mouth-watering treat that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Not only are these bites easy to prepare, but cooking them in an air fryer also makes them a much healthier alternative to traditional fried foods without compromising on flavour.

What Makes Buffalo Cauliflower Bites Special?

Buffalo cauliflower bites are a vegetarian alternative to the classic buffalo chicken wings. They are coated in a spicy buffalo sauce and baked or air-fried to perfection, delivering that same tangy, fiery flavour without the extra calories and fat. Packed with nutrients and fibre, cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that deserves a place in your recipes.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Bites:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 100g all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
• 120ml water (or plant-based milk for added flavour)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 60ml olive oil or vegetable oil

For the Buffalo Sauce:

• 120ml hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (or a vegan alternative)
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

1. Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes.
2. Prepare the cauliflower by washing it thoroughly and cutting it into bite-sized florets. Ensure they are roughly the same size for even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Gradually add the water (or plant-based milk) to the dry ingredients, whisking until you have a smooth batter. It should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower florets effectively.

Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower

1. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s well coated. Shake off any excess batter before placing them into the air fryer basket.

Step 4: Air Fry the Bites

1. Place the coated cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the basket; you may need to do this in batches.
2. Air fry for approximately 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The bites should be golden brown and crispy when done.

Step 5: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

1. While the cauliflower is cooking, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a small bowl, mix the hot sauce, melted butter, vinegar (if using), garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Adjust the ingredients based on your heat preference.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

1. Once the cauliflower bites are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and place them in a large mixing bowl. Immediately pour the buffalo sauce over the hot cauliflower and toss gently to coat evenly.
2. Serve the buffalo cauliflower bites warm, garnished with fresh parsley and accompanied by dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

• Adjust the heat: If you prefer milder flavours, reduce the amount of hot sauce or substitute it with a milder variant.
• Add a twist: For an extra twist, try adding a sprinkle of grated cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavour before air frying.
• Serving suggestions: These bites pair beautifully with crunchy veggies like carrot and celery sticks, making them perfect for a party platter.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are a scrumptious way to indulge your cravings without the guilt. Quick to prepare and packed with flavour, they are perfect for game days, movie nights, or as a delicious snack anytime. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy yet irresistible recipe—your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy your crispy, spicy creation!