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Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings, perfect for game day or as a tasty snack. This vegan-friendly recipe features cauliflower florets coated in a spicy buffalo sauce, baked to crispy perfection. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a flavorful appetizer, this dish is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step process to create this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower florets.
Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring they are evenly coated. Shake off any excess batter and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Cauliflower
Bake the coated cauliflower in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip the florets halfway through baking for even crispiness.
Step 5: Toss in Buffalo Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the baked cauliflower with the buffalo sauce and olive oil. Toss gently until all the florets are well coated.
Step 6: Bake Again
Return the coated cauliflower to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and the cauliflower is extra crispy.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or blue cheese, for a delightful appetizer!
FAQs
Can I make Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
How can I make the buffalo sauce less spicy?
To reduce the heat, you can mix the buffalo sauce with a bit of melted butter or use a milder hot sauce.
Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
While fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before coating.
What can I serve with Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower?
This dish pairs well with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your choice of dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
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