Here’s a fantastic recipe for Golden Crispy Cauliflower Bites, perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. These cauliflower bites are coated in a seasoned batter, baked or fried to golden perfection, and served with your favorite dipping sauce.
Golden Crispy Cauliflower Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 cup water (or more as needed for batter consistency)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking option)
- Oil for frying (if frying)
Instructions:
Prep the Cauliflower:
- Prepare the cauliflower: Rinse and cut the cauliflower into small bite-sized florets. Set aside.
Make the Batter:
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Add the water: Gradually add the water to the dry mixture, whisking until you get a smooth batter. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but still slightly runny (similar to pancake batter). Add more water if needed.
Coat the Cauliflower:
- Dip the cauliflower: Working in batches, dip the cauliflower florets into the batter, making sure they are well coated. Shake off any excess batter before frying or baking.
Fry or Bake the Cauliflower:
Frying Option: 5. Heat the oil: Heat about 2-3 inches of oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the cauliflower: Carefully place the battered cauliflower into the hot oil, frying in batches. Fry for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Baking Option: 5. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Bake the cauliflower: Place the coated cauliflower florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden and crispy.
Serve:
- Serve hot: Serve the crispy cauliflower bites immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, garlic aioli, buffalo sauce, or sriracha mayo.
Recipe Notes:
- Air fryer option: You can also cook these cauliflower bites in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Sauce ideas: These bites pair perfectly with a variety of sauces. You can toss them in buffalo sauce for a spicy kick, or serve them with a tangy honey mustard dip for a milder option.
- Gluten-free option: You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
Time and Temperature:
- Prep time: 10-15 minutes
- Cook time: 20-25 minutes (baking) or 3-5 minutes per batch (frying)
- Total time: 30-40 minutes
Enjoy these Golden Crispy Cauliflower Bites as a healthier alternative to fried snacks or a tasty addition to your next party platter! They’re crunchy, flavorful, and satisfying.