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
Scale
- 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