Description
Golden Crispy Cauliflower Bites are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. These cauliflower florets are coated in a seasoned batter, rolled in crunchy panko breadcrumbs, and baked or fried to golden perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they pair wonderfully with dips like ranch, blue cheese, 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 Option
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing baking sheet)
For Frying Option
- Oil for frying (heated to 375°F/190°C)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking and promote crispiness.
- Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Coat the cauliflower florets: Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure it’s completely coated, then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until fully covered for that extra crunch.
- Arrange florets on baking sheet: Place the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching to allow even cooking and crispiness.
- Bake the florets: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides turn golden and crispy.
- Optional frying method preparation: If you prefer frying, heat oil in a deep pan to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the batter and breadcrumbs as before, coating each floret.
- Fry the florets: Fry the coated cauliflower in batches for 3–4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Drain the fried bites: Use a slotted spoon to remove the florets from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the golden crispy cauliflower bites hot with your choice of dip such as ranch, blue cheese dressing, or hot sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs.
- If baking, flipping halfway ensures even browning on both sides.
- You can customize spices in the batter to suit your taste preferences.
- Make sure oil is hot enough before frying to prevent soggy bites.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
- These bites can be made gluten-free by substituting regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes (baking) or 10 minutes (frying)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
