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Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower Buffalo Wings – Ready in Just 20 Minutes!

If you’re in search of a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings, look no further than crispy air fryer cauliflower buffalo wings! In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a tantalising dish that brings the classic spicy flavours of buffalo wings to the table, perfect for snacking, Game Day, or as a vegetarian delight at your next gathering.

Why Cauliflower?

Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that has taken the culinary world by storm, especially among those seeking healthier options without compromising on flavour. It is low in calories, high in fibre, and packed with essential vitamins. Plus, its ability to absorb flavours makes it an ideal candidate for bold marinades and sauces like the tangy buffalo sauce we all adore.

Cooking with an Air Fryer

Air fryers have revolutionised the way we cook by offering a healthier alternative to deep frying. By circulating hot air around the food, they create that desired crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. In this recipe, the air fryer ensures that your cauliflower wings are crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside, all while cutting down on the unwanted fat.

Ingredients

To make your crispy air fryer cauliflower buffalo wings, you’ll need:

For the Cauliflower Wings:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative)
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 cup of water or plant-based milk (for a dairy-free option)

For the Buffalo Sauce:

• 1/2 cup of hot sauce (choose your favourite brand)
• 2 tablespoons of melted vegan butter or regular butter
• 1 teaspoon of maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• A pinch of cayenne pepper (for extra heat, if desired)

Garnishes:

• Fresh celery sticks
• Carrot sticks
• Blue cheese or ranch dressing (for dipping)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Rinse the cauliflower and break it into bite-sized florets. Make sure to dry them thoroughly with a kitchen towel.

2. Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add the water or plant-based milk, stirring until you achieve a smooth batter.

3. Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Make sure each piece is well coated for an even crunch.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F) for about 5 minutes to ensure it is hot when you add the cauliflower.

5. Air Fry the Cauliflower: Place the battered cauliflower wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not touch each other. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your fryer. Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking, until they are golden and crispy.

6. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce: While the cauliflower is cooking, mix the hot sauce, melted butter, and maple syrup in a small bowl until well combined.

7. Toss in Sauce: Once the cauliflower wings are done, remove them from the air fryer and place them in a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the wings and gently toss until they are completely covered.

8. Serve: Plate your crispy buffalo cauliflower wings and serve immediately with fresh celery and carrot sticks alongside your choice of blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.

Enjoy!

These crispy air fryer cauliflower buffalo wings are sure to become a hit, even among those who might usually turn their nose up at vegetables. Ready in just 20 minutes, they deliver the satisfaction of traditional buffalo wings with a fraction of the calories and guilt. Perfect for sharing, or simply indulging in, this recipe is not just for those following a specific diet but for anyone looking to enjoy a more playful take on a classic dish.

So next time you’re craving something spicy and satisfying, try whipping up these cauliflower buffalo wings. You may just find yourself enjoying a delicious guilt-free snack that’s bursting with flavour!