If you’re looking for a flavorful and crunchy veggie dish, this Crispy Cauliflower recipe is just what you need. It’s perfectly seasoned, lightly battered, and roasted or fried to crispy perfection. Whether you enjoy it as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, this recipe is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, golden-brown texture with a delicious seasoning
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
- A great alternative to traditional fried snacks
- Perfect as an appetizer, side, or even a main dish
Ingredients
You’ll find the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below, but here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Cauliflower florets
- All-purpose flour
- Cornstarch
- Baking powder
- Garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper
- Milk or water for the batter
- Oil for frying (or an air fryer alternative)
Directions
Prep the Cauliflower
Wash and dry the cauliflower, then cut it into bite-sized florets.
Make the Batter
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and seasonings. Slowly add milk or water until you get a smooth, thick batter.
Coat the Cauliflower
Dip each floret into the batter, ensuring it’s well coated.
Fry or Roast
- Frying: Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C) and fry the cauliflower in batches until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- Roasting: Place battered florets on a lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use ice-cold liquid in the batter for extra crispiness
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying to ensure even cooking
- For extra crunch, add a bit of panko breadcrumbs to the batter
- Try air frying for a healthier alternative
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Swap out regular flour for a gluten-free alternative
- Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the batter for a spicy kick
- Use chickpea flour for a nutty flavor and added protein
- Toss the crispy cauliflower in buffalo sauce for a delicious twist
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Crispy cauliflower is delicious on its own but pairs well with:
- A side of ranch, tzatziki, or spicy mayo for dipping
- Served over a salad for added crunch
- Wrapped in a tortilla with slaw for a tasty taco
- As a side to grilled meats or roasted veggies
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the batter and cauliflower ahead, then fry or roast when ready.
How do I keep the cauliflower crispy longer?
Serve immediately or reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.
Can I make this without frying?
Absolutely! Roasting or air frying works great for a healthier version.
What other seasonings can I use?
Try curry powder, taco seasoning, or parmesan for different flavors.
Conclusion
Crispy Cauliflower is a delicious, crunchy, and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you serve it as a snack, appetizer, or side, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and enjoy every bite!
Print
Crispy Cauliflower – A Delicious and Healthy Treat
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Frying, Baking, Air Frying
- Cuisine: American, Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Crispy Cauliflower is golden, crunchy, and absolutely addictive! Whether baked or fried, it’s the perfect appetizer, side dish, or snack. Enjoy it plain, with your favorite dipping sauce, or toss it in a spicy buffalo or garlic parmesan glaze for an extra punch of flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3/4 cup water or milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- Cooking oil (for frying) or spray (for baking)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower
- Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add water (or milk) and mix until you get a smooth batter.
Step 3: Coat with Panko
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated.
- Roll in panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Step 4: Cook Until Crispy
For Frying:
6. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry the cauliflower in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
For Baking:
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
7. Arrange coated florets on a greased baking sheet and spray lightly with oil.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, buffalo, or garlic aioli!
Notes
- Want it spicy? Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the batter.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg