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Buffalo Cauliflower

Buffalo Cauliflower


  • Author: Leslie Bennett
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Buffalo cauliflower is a plant-based twist on classic buffalo wings, featuring crispy cauliflower florets coated in a spicy buffalo sauce. Perfect for game nights, parties, or as a homemade snack. Easily made vegan, gluten-free, or low-carb.


Ingredients

For the Cauliflower:

– 1½ cups flour (substitute gluten-free flour if needed)

– ¾ cup cornstarch

– 1½ tbsp baking powder

– 1½ cups chilled club soda

– ½ tsp kosher salt

– ½ tsp onion powder

– ½ tsp garlic powder

– ¼ tsp white pepper

– Vegetable oil (enough to submerge cauliflower partially)

For Coating:

– ¾ cup buffalo sauce (substitute barbecue, honey mustard, or ranch if preferred)

For Serving:

– 1 cup blue cheese dressing (substitute ranch or vegan alternatives)

– 2 carrots, peeled and cut into sticks

– 3 celery stalks, cut into sticks


Instructions

  1. Heat a pot of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the oil is at least 3 inches deep.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and white pepper. Gradually whisk in chilled club soda until smooth.
  3. Trim and cut a head of cauliflower into florets. Dredge each floret lightly in the dry mixture, then dip into the batter, shaking off excess.
  4. Carefully place the battered florets into the hot oil, frying in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  5. Gently toss the freshly fried cauliflower in buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
  6. Arrange on a platter with blue cheese dressing, carrot sticks, and celery sticks for dipping.

Notes

– Use chilled club soda: This ensures a lighter, crispier batter. Avoid overcrowding the pot while frying to maintain even cooking and crispiness.

– Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to restore crispiness. Store cauliflower and sauce separately to prevent sogginess.

– Customizations: Swap buffalo sauce with barbecue, teriyaki, or ranch for variety. Add cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer / Snack
  • Method: Frying (or Baking for a healthier option)
  • Cuisine: American / Plant-Based

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: ~250
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg