Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings

Embrace the delightful crunch and bold flavors of our Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings, a guilt-free snack that packs a punch! Perfectly battered and crisped to golden perfection, these wings are tossed in a zesty sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or seeking a quick and healthy snack, these cauliflower wings are sure to impress with their delicious taste and satisfying texture.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
  • Milk or milk alternative, as needed for batter
  • Flour, as needed for coating
  • 1 tbsp butter, melted
  • Garlic powder, to taste
  • Paprika, to taste
  • Onion powder, to taste
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Your favorite hot sauce, such as Frank’s Red Hot
  • Olive oil spray for air frying

Directions:

  1. Prep the Cauliflower: Wash and cut the cauliflower into wing-sized florets.
  2. Make the Batter: In a bowl, create a batter using milk (or a milk alternative) and flour. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the florets but not too runny. Season the batter with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each floret into the batter, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off.
  4. Air Fry: Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the battered cauliflower pieces into the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not touch. Cook at 380°F for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through cooking.
  5. Make the Sauce: While the cauliflower is cooking, mix your favorite hot sauce with melted butter in a large bowl.
  6. Toss the Cauliflower: Once the cauliflower is cooked, toss them in the hot sauce mixture until well coated.
  7. Serve: Serve the cauliflower wings immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Nutritional Benefits

  • Low Calorie: Cauliflower is naturally low in calories, making these wings a healthier choice.
  • High Fiber: Helps to promote fullness and supports digestive health.
  • Rich in Antioxidants: Cauliflower and spices like paprika contribute antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body.

Cooking Tips

  • Consistency of Batter: Ensure the batter is not too thick nor too thin to properly coat the cauliflower without dripping off.
  • Single Layer Air Frying: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure the cauliflower wings cook evenly and get crisp.
  • Shaking the Basket: Halfway through cooking, shake the basket to help the wings cook evenly and achieve maximum crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

  • Dipping Sauces: Serve these wings with a variety of dips such as ranch, blue cheese, or a yogurt-based dip to complement the spicy flavor.
  • Side Dishes: Pair with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a light salad to balance the heat and make a fuller meal.
  • Garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro can add a fresh, herby contrast to the spicy wings.

Make-Ahead and Storage

  • Make-Ahead: You can prepare the florets and batter them ahead of time. Keep them refrigerated until ready to cook.
  • Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer to maintain the crispiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings are loved for their simplicity and the healthier take on a traditionally fried dish. They are perfect for those who want to indulge in their craving for wings without straying from a health-conscious diet. These wings are sure to be a hit at any gathering, offering a delicious, vegan-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on texture or taste.