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Buffalo Cauliflower in the Air Fryer: A Spicy Delight

Buffalo cauliflower has taken the culinary world by storm, swiftly evolving from a humble alternative to chicken wings into a beloved dish that tantalises the taste buds of vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Not only does it pack a punch with its spicy flavour, but it is also an exceedingly healthy option for those seeking a guilt-free treat. The air fryer, known for its ability to create crispy textures without the excessive use of oil, is the ideal appliance for making this zesty dish.

The Allure of Air Frying

Air frying has grown significantly in popularity for several reasons. With the ability to deliver that coveted crunch, the air fryer provides a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. This innovative gadget circulates hot air around the food, cooking it evenly while allowing for a fraction of the oil typically required in deep frying. As a result, dishes prepared in an air fryer, such as Buffalo cauliflower, become a delicious yet healthier option.

Ingredients You Will Need

To create Buffalo cauliflower in the air fryer, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
• ½ cup plain flour (or gluten-free flour, if preferred)
• ½ cup water or plant-based milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• ½ cup Buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• A drizzle of oil (coconut, olive, or your choice)
• Fresh parsley or celery sticks for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Begin by rinsing the cauliflower thoroughly and cutting it into bite-sized florets. This ensures an even cooking process and makes it easier to enjoy.

2. Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, water (or plant-based milk), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and smoked paprika until you achieve a smooth batter. It should be thick enough to coat the florets without dripping excessively.

3. Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing the excess to drip off before placing them in the air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd the basket, as this can hinder cooking and crispiness.

4. Air Fry the Cauliflower: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F). Once heated, arrange the battered florets in the basket. Cook for approximately 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket a couple of times during cooking to ensure even crisping.

5. Add the Buffalo Sauce: When the cauliflower is golden brown and crisp, remove it from the air fryer. In a large bowl, drizzle the cooked florets with Buffalo sauce and gently toss to coat evenly.

6. Final Cook: Return the sauced cauliflower to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5 minutes at the same temperature. This extra step will help to caramelise the sauce and enhance the flavour.

7. Serve: Once cooked, serve the Buffalo cauliflower hot. You can garnish it with fresh parsley or accompany it with celery sticks and a cooling dip, like ranch or blue cheese, for added indulgence.

Why Choose Buffalo Cauliflower?

Buffalo cauliflower is not just a delicious dish; it’s also packed with nutrients. Cauliflower is high in vitamins C and K, fibre, and antioxidants, making it a worthy addition to your diet. When prepared in the air fryer, it reduces the need for excessive oil, making it significantly lower in calories compared to traditional fried snack options.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a vibrant snack for a gathering, a satisfying side dish, or simply a guilt-free treat, Buffalo cauliflower in the air fryer is an excellent choice. Its bold flavours, combined with the satisfying crunch that air frying brings, are sure to impress anyone at the table. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this spicy delight – your taste buds will thank you!