Description
This recipe for Air Fryer Crispy Breaded Cauliflower transforms simple cauliflower florets into a golden, crunchy snack or appetizer using a flavorful seasoned batter and panko breadcrumbs. The florets are parboiled for tenderness, coated in a smooth seasoned batter, breaded, and air fried to perfection, resulting in a guilt-free, crispy delight that pairs beautifully with a zesty chili lime mayo dip.
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower
- 1 medium-sized cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
For the Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (plain flour)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp crushed black pepper
For Breading
- 1 cup bread crumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: Parmesan cheese (if desired)
Other
- 2 to 3 tbsp oil for spraying and brushing
For the Chili Lime Mayo Dip (Optional)
- 4 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 to 2 tsp sriracha or any chili sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Chop the medium-sized cauliflower into bite-sized florets using a sharp knife or by tearing larger florets with your hands.
- Parboil the Cauliflower: In a deep pan, boil water with 1/2 tsp salt. Add the cauliflower florets and boil for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly tender. Drain them well using a colander and spread on a kitchen towel to dry completely. Set aside.
- Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, 1 tsp salt, smoked paprika (or red chili powder), garlic powder, and crushed black pepper. Gradually whisk in water until you have a smooth, lump-free batter. Keep this ready for coating.
- Set Up Breading Station: Place the parboiled cauliflower in one bowl, the batter in another, and the breadcrumbs in a third bowl. In the breadcrumbs bowl, mix in 1/4 tsp salt and black pepper (add Parmesan cheese if using) for extra flavor.
- Batter and Bread the Florets: Dip 3-4 cauliflower florets at a time into the batter, turning them to coat evenly. Then let excess batter drip off using a fork or spoon. Next, toss them gently in the breadcrumb mixture until thoroughly coated. Repeat for all florets.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 4 to 5 minutes. Meanwhile, lightly spray or brush the breaded cauliflower florets with oil to help them crisp during cooking.
- Air Fry the Cauliflower: Brush some oil onto the air fryer basket. Arrange the coated cauliflower in a single layer inside the basket. Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 11 to 13 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through cooking and spraying or brushing a bit more oil after flipping. Air fry until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately with chili lime mayo or any dip of your choice.
- Prepare the Chili Lime Mayo Dip (Optional): In a small bowl, mix together 4 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tbsp sweet chili sauce, 1 tsp lemon juice, and 1 to 2 tsp sriracha or chili sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve alongside the crispy cauliflower.
Notes
- Make sure the cauliflower florets are dried completely after boiling to help the batter adhere properly.
- If you prefer a spicier snack, increase the amount of smoked paprika or chili powder in the batter.
- Using panko breadcrumbs gives a crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Spraying or brushing oil before and during air frying is key to achieving a crispy outer layer.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- The optional Parmesan cheese in breadcrumbs adds a savory depth but can be omitted for a vegetarian version.
- You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends if needed for dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: International
