If you’re someone who enjoys the magic of turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary, this Crispy Fried Cauliflower is a must-try. With just a few pantry staples, this recipe transforms humble cauliflower into a golden, crunchy delight. The crisp, flavorful batter adds a satisfying crunch to every bite, making it an irresistible snack or a standout side dish.
What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility. Serve it with your favorite dipping sauce for a casual appetizer at gatherings, or pair it with a refreshing salad for a well-balanced meal. It’s also a fantastic plant-based alternative to fried chicken or other traditional fried dishes, offering all the crispy goodness without the meat.
Plus, cauliflower’s mild flavor makes it the perfect canvas for bold seasonings. Whether you prefer a classic savory batter, a spicy kick, or a hint of garlic and herbs, this dish is easy to customize to your tastes. It’s a delicious way to give an often-overlooked vegetable the spotlight it deserves.
So, whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding a crowd, or simply craving something crispy and indulgent, this Crispy Fried Cauliflower will hit the spot. Give it a try and experience how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly memorable.
Why You’ll Love Crispy Fried Cauliflower:
- Irresistibly Crispy: The combination of flour and cornstarch in the batter ensures each cauliflower floret turns out perfectly golden and crunchy.
- Full of Flavor: The spices, including paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a hint of chili and cumin, infuse the cauliflower with warm, aromatic flavors.
- Remarkably Simple: Despite its impressive outcome, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward and uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- Highly Adaptable: Whether you’re serving it as a snack for a movie night, as an appetizer for a dinner party, or as a side dish for your family dinner, it fits seamlessly into any occasion.
- Customizable Dipping Sauce: The creamy mayo sauce, with its blend of Sriracha, lemon, and garlic, complements the cauliflower, but feel free to get creative with your sauces!
Ingredients You’ll Need in making Crispy Fried Cauliflower
- Cauliflower: This versatile vegetable forms the base of our dish.
- Flour and Cornstarch: These create the foundation for a light, crispy batter.
- Spices: A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and cumin adds depth and character to the batter.
- Water : Binds the dry ingredients to form a smooth batter.
- Vegetable Oil: Used for frying, it gives the cauliflower a delightfully crispy texture.
- For the Sauce: Mayonnaise, Sriracha, lemon juice, and garlic come together for a tangy and creamy dip.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Begin by cutting the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, then boil them briefly to soften.
- Whisk the Batter: In a bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, and spices, then gradually add water to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Fry to Perfection: After coating the florets in batter, fry them in hot oil until they are beautifully golden and crisp.
- Mix the Sauce: Combine the mayo, Sriracha, lemon juice, and minced garlic for a perfect dipping companion.
Expert Tips for Success in Making Crispy Fried Cauliflower
- Consistent Floret Size: Cutting the cauliflower into uniform pieces ensures even cooking.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough for frying (around 350°F) to avoid soggy batter.
- Drain Excess Oil: Let the fried florets rest on a paper towel to absorb any extra oil for the crispiest result.
- Serve Hot: These delights are best enjoyed warm, right after frying.
- Sauce Variations: If Sriracha isn’t your thing, try mustard or garlic aioli sauce instead.
Whether you’re gathering with friends for a game night, looking for a tasty snack for your family, or simply want to try something new and exciting in the kitchen, these Crispy Cauliflower Delights with Creamy Mayo Sauce are sure to impress. They’re a testament to the versatility of cauliflower and the magic that can happen with a few simple ingredients and a bit of creativity in the kitchen. Enjoy the delightful crunch and rich flavors that make this dish a joy to eat and share.
Experience plant-based perfection — explore easy, delicious recipes on Dr. Vegan!
Crispy Fried Cauliflower
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower
- 1 cup all-purpose flour or 120g
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 ½ teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup water 240ml
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Rinse and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
- Boil in salted water for 3-5 minutes until just tender. Then drain.
Make the Batter:
- In a bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, and seasonings.
- Gradually add the water to form a smooth batter.
Fry the Cauliflower:
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Dip each floret in the batter and fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Prepare the Creamy Mayo Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
- Whisk until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Notes
- Adjust the spiciness of the mayo sauce to taste.
- Cauliflower can be substituted with broccoli or other vegetables.
- Ensure cauliflower is dry before battering to avoid splattering during frying.