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Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: A Spicy, Guilt-Free Snack

Cauliflower has taken the culinary world by storm in recent years, reinventing itself as a versatile and nutritious alternative to countless dishes. Among the many ways to enjoy this cruciferous vegetable, Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites stand out as a deliciously spicy and guilt-free snack. Easy to prepare and packed with flavour, these bites are perfect as party fare, game day nibbles, or simply a nutritious munch during movie night.

The Appeal of Air Frying

Air frying has revolutionised the way we cook. By circulating hot air around the food, an air fryer produces a crispy exterior, mimicking the texture of deep-fried foods but with significantly less oil. This method not only reduces calories but also retains the natural flavours of the ingredients, ensuring a delightful experience with every bite.

Ingredients

To prepare Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites, you’ll need:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup of water (or plant-based milk)
• ½ cup of buffalo sauce (adjust according to your spice tolerance)
• A drizzle of oil for spraying (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Begin by washing and cutting the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. It’s essential to ensure they are of similar size for even cooking.

Step 2: Create the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add water (or plant-based milk) to the mixture, stirring until you achieve a smooth batter. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but not too thick that it becomes gloppy.

Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before placing them in the air fryer basket. For an extra crispy texture, you can lightly spray the coated florets with oil.

Step 4: Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (around 392°F). Place the battered cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Air fry the cauliflower for about 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping. The florets should be golden brown and crispy when done.

Step 5: Toss in Buffalo Sauce

Once the cauliflower is cooked, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the hot cauliflower and toss gently until each piece is well-coated. For a tangier kick, you may wish to add more sauce according to your preference.

Step 6: Final Air Fry

For the ultimate crunch, return the buffalo-coated cauliflower bites to the air fryer for an additional 3-5 minutes. This step enables the sauce to caramelise slightly, adding to the flavour and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or spring onions. These bites pair beautifully with a side of cooling dips such as ranch, blue cheese dressing, or a simple yoghurt-based sauce to balance the heat.

A Healthy Twist on a Classic Favourite

These Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are perfect for those looking to indulge without any of the guilt associated with traditional fried snacks. They’re naturally vegan, gluten-free (if using gluten-free flour), and rich in vitamins, making them an excellent addition to any diet.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet night in, these spicy morsels are sure to impress. Say goodbye to calorie-laden snacks and hello to a vibrant, flavourful treat that delivers on all fronts. Enjoy the crunch, embrace the spice, and relish every bit of these addictive cauliflower bites!

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