Description
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2/3 cup water (or unsweetened plant milk)
- Cooking spray
- For Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2–3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Whisk flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Gradually add water to make a smooth batter.
- Toss cauliflower florets in the batter. Let the excess batter drip off.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2–3 minutes. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange the battered cauliflower in a single layer. Work in batches if necessary.
- Air fry for 15–19 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crisp.
- While the cauliflower cooks, whisk all Bang Bang sauce ingredients in a separate bowl.
- Toss the hot cauliflower with the Bang Bang sauce, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For extra crunch, sprinkle air-fried cauliflower with panko crumbs during the final 2–3 minutes of cooking.
- Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped cilantro before serving.
- Serve immediately to keep the cauliflower at its crispiest.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 19 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American Fusion