Description
Crispy air-fried buffalo cauliflower that tastes just like wings! Low-carb, keto-friendly, and ready in 20 minutes. The perfect healthy appetizer that doesn’t taste healthy.
Ingredients
- 1 large head fresh cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 egg whites (or 1 whole egg)
- 2 tbsp water
- 3/4 cup Frank’s RedHot Original Sauce
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
- Blue cheese crumbles for garnish
- Fresh green onions for garnish
- Ranch dressing for dipping
- Celery and carrot sticks for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Cauliflower: Cut fresh cauliflower into bite-sized florets, about 2 inches each. Pat completely dry with paper towels.
- Make Coating: In a small bowl, combine cornstarch, paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In another bowl, whisk egg whites with water to create an egg wash.
- Coat Florets: Dip each cauliflower floret into the egg wash, then roll in the cornstarch mixture until fully coated. Place on a clean plate.
- Air Fry: Arrange coated florets in air fryer basket in a single layer without crowding. Air fry at 380°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. They should be golden and crispy.
- Make Buffalo Sauce: While cauliflower cooks, combine Frank’s RedHot sauce and melted butter in a small bowl. Add honey if desired for slight sweetness.
- Coat: Transfer cooked cauliflower to a large bowl. Pour buffalo sauce over top and toss until all pieces are coated.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles and green onions. Serve immediately with ranch dressing, celery, and carrots.
Notes
Dry Thoroughly: Moisture prevents crispiness. Pat cauliflower completely dry before coating.
Uniform Size: Cut florets to similar sizes for even cooking. Varying sizes leads to some burning while others are undercooked.
Do Not Crowd: Florets need air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary for best results.
Cornstarch Secret: This creates crispy exterior without oil. Do not substitute with flour.
Temperature Critical: 380°F is the sweet spot. Check your air fryer’s actual temperature as they vary.
Timing Varies: Different air fryers have different cooking times. Check at 12 minutes and adjust as needed.
Storage: Keep in fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to re-crisp.
Make Ahead: Coat florets and refrigerate on a sheet. Air fry when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 pieces
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
