Description
This crispy Breaded Cauliflower recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fried snacks. Featuring seasoned panko breadcrumbs and a quick air frying technique, these cauliflower bites are perfectly golden and crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and easy to prepare for a guilt-free appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 16 ounces cauliflower florets (about 5 cups)
Coating
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
Other
- Oil (for spritzing)
- Dip (if desired, see notes)
Instructions
- Prepare Cauliflower: Sort through the cauliflower florets and break or chop any larger pieces into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Mix Egg Wash: In a medium bowl, beat the 2 large eggs with 1 tablespoon of water using a fork until combined.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a separate bowl or zip-top bag, combine 1 cup panko, ½ cup bread crumbs, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon salt. Stir or shake to mix well.
- Coat Cauliflower in Egg: Drop the cauliflower pieces into the egg mixture, stirring well to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Bread the Cauliflower: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the egg-coated cauliflower to the breadcrumb mixture. Stir to coat evenly or seal the bag and shake for uniform coverage.
- Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Spritz the air fryer basket with oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange and Cook: Place the breaded cauliflower in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between pieces for optimal air circulation. Lightly spritz the cauliflower with oil spray.
- Air Fry: Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy. For multiple batches, cooking time after the first batch may be shorter (about 6 minutes) due to residual heat.
- Serve: Serve hot with your choice of dip for added flavor.
Notes
- Ensure cauliflower pieces are uniform in size to promote even cooking.
- Using the bag shake method for breading helps achieve better coverage.
- Spritzing with oil before air frying encourages crispiness without deep frying.
- Check cauliflower early when cooking subsequent batches as cooking times may vary.
- Serve with dips like ranch, spicy mayo, or a yogurt-based sauce for extra taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: breaded cauliflower, air fryer cauliflower, crispy cauliflower bites, vegetarian appetizer, healthy snack
