Description
Golden Crispy Cauliflower Bites are a delicious and crunchy vegetarian snack or appetizer made by coating cauliflower florets in a seasoned batter and crispy breadcrumbs, then baking or frying until perfectly golden. These bites are perfect for a healthy yet indulgent treat, served with your favorite dips like ranch or hot sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Coating
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (panko for extra crispiness)
For Baking or Frying
- Olive oil or cooking spray (if baking)
- Vegetable oil for frying (if frying)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until you get a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Coat Cauliflower Florets: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, roll each floret in the breadcrumbs until completely covered for maximum crispiness.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated cauliflower florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they do not touch to allow even baking and crisping.
- Bake until Golden: Bake the florets for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on all sides. They should be golden and crispy when done.
- Prepare for Frying (Optional): If you prefer frying, heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 375°F (190°C). Repeat the battering and breadcrumb coating process.
- Fry Cauliflower: Fry the coated florets in batches for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried florets with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the golden crispy cauliflower bites hot with your favorite dips such as ranch, blue cheese dressing, or hot sauce for a flavorful snack or appetizer.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs.
- Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven or fryer.
- Make sure to flip the florets halfway through baking for even crispiness.
- Can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
- Vegetarian and can be made vegan by using plant-based ingredients for dip.
