Description
Crispy cauliflower magic brings Middle Eastern spices to life with golden-brown florets that crunch perfectly. Warm pita, creamy tahini sauce, and fresh herbs complete this simple yet luxurious plant-based delight you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup (125 grams / 4.4 ounces) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1 cup (240 milliliters / 8 fluid ounces) water (or sparkling water for extra crispiness)
- 1 cup (100 grams / 3.5 ounces) breadcrumbs or panko (for extra crunch)
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Serving Ingredients:
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy mayo
- Marinara sauce
Cooking Ingredient:
- Cooking spray or oil
Instructions
- Prepare the oven or air fryer by heating to the optimal temperature. For traditional oven, set to 220C (425F) and cover a baking tray with parchment paper. If using an air fryer, adjust temperature to 200C (400F).
- Create a smooth, well-seasoned batter by whisking flour with water, blending in garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until completely integrated and free of lumps.
- Transform cauliflower florets into crispy delights by carefully submerging each piece into the prepared batter, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Generously coat each battered floret with breadcrumbs or panko, ensuring complete coverage for maximum crunchiness.
- Position the breaded cauliflower pieces strategically on the prepared surface. For oven method, distribute florets evenly on the parchment-lined tray, misting lightly with cooking spray or olive oil. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, rotating midway to guarantee uniform golden coloration. In air fryer, arrange florets in a single layer without overcrowding, cooking for 15-20 minutes and gently shaking the basket halfway through to promote even crisping.
- Present the golden-brown cauliflower immediately, accompanied by a preferred dipping sauce that complements the robust, crunchy texture of the dish.
Notes
- Perfectly coat cauliflower by patting florets dry before dipping to ensure batter adheres evenly and creates a crunchier exterior.
- Experiment with alternative flour options like chickpea or gluten-free flour for those with dietary restrictions, maintaining the same crispy texture.
- Elevate flavor profiles by adding different spices to the batter such as cumin, turmeric, or chili powder for a personalized twist on the classic recipe.
- Prevent soggy results by avoiding overcrowding the baking sheet or air fryer basket, allowing each floret enough space to crisp up and brown uniformly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg