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Cauliflower has emerged as a superstar in the culinary world, celebrated for its remarkable versatility. This humble vegetable can be transformed into a variety of dishes, from creamy soups to hearty main courses. Among these transformations, Spicy Air-Fried Cauliflower Buffalo Bites stand out as a deliciously bold snack that satisfies cravings while keeping things healthy.

Spicy Air-Fried Cauliflower Buffalo Bites

Crispy and spicy cauliflower bites coated in buffalo sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1.0 medium head cauliflower
  • 1.0 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1.0 cup water or unsweetened almond milk
  • 1.0 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1.0 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1.0 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1.0 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1.0 cup buffalo sauce
  • 2.0 tablespoons olive oil
  • None to taste fresh parsley
  • None for serving celery sticks
  • None optional blue cheese or ranch dressing

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Cauliflower: Rinse and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
  • Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, water (or almond milk), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until a smooth batter forms, adjusting with more flour or water if necessary; it should be thick enough to coat the florets but not too heavy.
  • Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring they are evenly coated. Shake off any excess batter and lay them on a plate or parchment paper.
  • Air-Fry the Bites: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the batter-coated cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer — you may need to do this in batches. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
  • Toss in Buffalo Sauce: Once the cauliflower is air-fried, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the hot cauliflower bites and toss gently to coat them evenly. If desired, add olive oil for extra richness and flavor.
  • Final Air-Fry: Return the coated cauliflower bites to the air fryer for an additional 3-5 minutes at 400°F for an extra crispy finish. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  • Serve: Carefully remove the bites from the air fryer. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately with celery sticks and your choice of blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.

Notes

Optional to use almond milk for batter to enhance flavor.
Keyword air fryer, buffalo, cauliflower, spicy