Crispy Fried Cauliflower Bites
These crispy cauliflower bites are perfectly seasoned, crunchy on the outside, and tender on the inside. They’re delicious as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (240 ml) water or milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Coating
1½ cups (90 g) panko breadcrumbs
For Frying
Vegetable or canola oil
Optional Dipping Sauces
Ranch dressing
Garlic aioli
Sweet chili sauce
Buffalo sauce
Honey mustard
Instructions
Wash and thoroughly dry the cauliflower florets.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water (or milk), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting the excess drip off.
Roll each battered floret in the panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
Heat about 5 cm (2 inches) of oil in a deep pan to 175°C (350°F).
Fry the cauliflower in batches for 3–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips
Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the oil temperature will drop.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning to the batter.
To make them even crispier, double-coat the florets by dipping them in the batter and breadcrumbs twice.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 4–6
