Why Make This Recipe
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is a fantastic choice for a healthy snack or appetizer. It offers the same zesty kick and crunch that you would expect from traditional buffalo wings but is made with cauliflower, making it a low-carb and vegetarian option. Plus, cooking it in the air fryer means you can enjoy crispy, golden bites without the extra oil, making it a lighter choice for your game day or any gathering.
How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
Ingredients
- 1 large cauliflower (chopped into equal-sized florets)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup milk (soy milk works well)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup hot sauce (Frank’s Buffalo hot sauce is recommended)
- 1/4 cup butter (melted * See notes)
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, add your flour, milk, salt, and pepper. Whisk until a smooth batter forms.
- Moving quickly, dip each cauliflower floret into the batter until completely covered.
- Place the battered cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 13-15 minutes at 200°C/400°F, or until crispy and golden brown.
- While the cauliflower is cooking, prepare the sauce. In another bowl, whisk together the buffalo hot sauce and melted butter until smooth.
- Remove the crispy cauliflower from the air fryer and coat them in the buffalo sauce. Serve immediately on a plate.
How to Serve Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
These buffalo cauliflower bites are best served hot and fresh. You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese for added flavor. They make a perfect appetizer for parties or game days.
How to Store Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until they are crispy again.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
- Make sure the cauliflower florets are cut evenly. This helps them cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed to ensure proper crispiness.
- You can adjust the heat level by choosing a milder or spicier hot sauce based on your preference.
Variation
You can add other spices to the batter for extra flavor, such as garlic powder or paprika. Another option is to sprinkle some Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower before serving for a cheesy twist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just make sure to thaw and dry it well before dipping it in the batter.
What can I serve with buffalo cauliflower?
You can serve it with celery sticks, carrots, and your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese.
Can I prepare this in advance?
You can prepare the battered cauliflower ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just cook them in the air fryer right before serving for best results.
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
Ingredients
For the batter
- 1 large cauliflower (chopped into equal-sized florets)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup milk (soy milk works well)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
For the sauce
- 1 cup hot sauce (Frank’s Buffalo hot sauce is recommended)
- 1/4 cup butter (melted) * See notes
Instructions
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, add flour, milk, salt, and pepper. Whisk until a smooth batter forms.
- Dipping quickly, coat each cauliflower floret in the batter until completely covered.
- Place the battered cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cooking
- Cook for 13-15 minutes at 200°C/400°F, or until crispy and golden brown.
- While the cauliflower is cooking, prepare the sauce by whisking together the buffalo hot sauce and melted butter in another bowl until smooth.
Serving
- Remove the crispy cauliflower from the air fryer and coat them in the buffalo sauce. Serve immediately on a plate.