This buffalo cauliflower recipe is a fantastic vegetarian alternative to traditional buffalo wings. The crispy, golden florets are coated in a tangy buffalo sauce, making them a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a game day party or simply craving something spicy and delicious, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, but you may need to pick up a head of cauliflower and buffalo sauce if you don't already have them. The cauliflower is the star of the dish, providing a hearty base that soaks up the flavorful sauce. The buffalo sauce adds the signature spicy kick, so make sure to choose one that matches your heat preference.
Ingredients for Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe
Cauliflower: The main ingredient, providing a hearty and nutritious base for the dish.
All-purpose flour: Used to create the batter that coats the cauliflower, giving it a crispy texture.
Water: Combined with the flour to form the batter.
Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor to the batter.
Buffalo sauce: The key ingredient for the spicy coating, choose one that matches your heat preference.
Melted butter: Mixed with the buffalo sauce to create a rich and smooth coating for the cauliflower.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
To ensure your cauliflower gets extra crispy, make sure to spread the florets out evenly on the baking sheet without overcrowding. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece, promoting even browning and crispiness.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
cauliflower - Substitute with broccoli: Broccoli has a similar texture and can hold up well to the buffalo sauce, providing a slightly different but still delicious flavor.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with chickpea flour: Chickpea flour is a great gluten-free alternative that also adds a bit of protein and a slightly nutty flavor.
water - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can add a subtle nutty flavor and a bit of creaminess to the batter.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a similar depth of flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
buffalo sauce - Substitute with sriracha sauce: Sriracha sauce offers a different type of heat and a bit of sweetness, making it a good alternative for those who enjoy a different spice profile.
melted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat option and can provide a rich, slightly fruity flavor that complements the buffalo sauce.
Other Alternative Recipes
How to Store or Freeze This Dish
- Allow the cauliflower to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the batter soggy.
- Transfer the cooled buffalo cauliflower to an airtight container. For best results, use a container that fits the florets snugly to minimize air exposure.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness.
- For freezing, place the cooled cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer the florets to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and use within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
- To reheat from frozen, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the frozen buffalo cauliflower on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
- Avoid microwaving as it can make the batter soggy. Always opt for oven reheating to maintain the texture and flavor.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the leftover buffalo cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. This method helps maintain the crunchiness of the cauliflower.
Air Fryer Method: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the buffalo cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method is quick and keeps the cauliflower crispy.
Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Place the buffalo cauliflower in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method adds a bit of extra flavor from the oil or butter.
Microwave Method: Place the buffalo cauliflower in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Note that this method may result in a softer texture compared to the other methods.
Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the buffalo cauliflower on a toaster oven tray lined with parchment paper. Heat for 10-12 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy. This method is convenient for smaller portions.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Oven: Used to bake the cauliflower florets until they are crispy and golden.
Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for baking the cauliflower florets.
Parchment paper: Prevents the cauliflower from sticking to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup.
Mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the flour, water, and garlic powder to create the batter.
Whisk: Helps in mixing the batter ingredients until smooth.
Small bowl: Used to mix the buffalo sauce and melted butter.
Tongs: Useful for flipping the cauliflower florets halfway through baking and for tossing them in the buffalo sauce.
Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of the flour, water, and buffalo sauce.
Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of the garlic powder and melted butter.
Knife: Used to cut the cauliflower head into florets.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the cauliflower.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Prepare ingredients in advance: Cut the cauliflower into florets and measure out the flour, water, and garlic powder ahead of time.
Use pre-made buffalo sauce: Save time by using store-bought buffalo sauce instead of making your own.
Line baking sheet: Use parchment paper to line your baking sheet for easy cleanup.
Batch cooking: Double the recipe and cook in batches to have extra for later.
Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven while preparing the batter to save time.
Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 head Cauliflower cut into florets
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Water
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 cup Buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoon Butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, water, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Dip cauliflower florets into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
- In a small bowl, mix buffalo sauce and melted butter. Toss the baked cauliflower in the sauce.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Main Courses and Desserts
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