Description
These golden cauliflower bites are crunchy, flavorful, and irresistible. Perfect as an appetizer, game day snack, or quick family treat, they’re best served with your favorite dipping sauce. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.
Introduction
Crispy fried cauliflower is a versatile, plant-based snack that satisfies cravings for something crunchy and savory. The lightly spiced batter creates a perfect golden crust, while the cauliflower inside stays soft and tender. With optional dipping sauces and variations, this recipe can be adapted to suit any taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Golden and crispy every time
Quick and easy to prepare
Customizable with spices, cheese, or dipping sauces
Can be air-fried or deep-fried
Family-friendly, vegetarian, and crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower Bites:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup cold water (adjust as needed for batter consistency)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Optional Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce or sriracha
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
Wash and cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Pat dry thoroughly to ensure the batter adheres.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Slowly add cold water and mix until smooth and thick enough to coat the cauliflower.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
Step 4: Coat and Fry
Dip cauliflower florets into the batter, shake off excess, and carefully place them into the hot oil. Fry in batches for 4–5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
Step 6: Make the Dipping Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, and honey. Serve alongside the cauliflower bites.
Variations
Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the batter.
Gluten-Free: Substitute rice flour for all-purpose flour.
Air Fryer Method: Spray coated cauliflower with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, shaking halfway.
Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle fried bites with parmesan while still hot.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 6 servings)
Calories: 210
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soggy.
Pro Tips
Ensure cauliflower florets are completely dry before dipping in batter.
Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.
For extra crispiness, double-fry the cauliflower (fry once, let rest, then fry again quickly).
Pair with ranch, buffalo sauce, or sweet chili sauce for variety.
Conclusion
These Crispy Fried Cauliflower Bites are easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Golden and crunchy on the outside with tender cauliflower inside, they’re a snack everyone will love. With simple ingredients and optional dipping sauces, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.