Whether you want a crispy, low-carb snack or a meatless version of buffalo wings, fried cauliflower is the perfect choice! Toss them in your favorite sauce or serve them up with your favorite dip- it’s a snack that even the picky eaters in your house will love!
Cauliflower is such a versatile veggie. Not only is it delicious on its own, (cauliflower steaks, anyone?) but it also helps to make low-carb versions of your favorite dishes. Try this cauliflower alfredo sauce or cheesy cauliflower breadsticks!
Fried Cauliflower Recipe
If you’ve ever been on a low-carb or keto diet, I’m sure you’re familiar with this versatile veggie. But this isn’t your mother’s riced cauliflower! Even though it’s low in carbs, this fried cauliflower is perfectly crispy, crunchy, and tender on the inside. It’s like a healthier version of popcorn chicken, and perfect for those who are vegetarian or just trying to sneak more veggies into their diet!
This fried cauliflower has the most delicious breading that cooks to a perfect golden brown. Its crispy goodness will have you coming back for seconds and thirds, so you might want to double your batch! You can serve your fried cauliflower as-is with a tasty dip on the side, or toss it in your favorite sauce! Buffalo, BBQ, you name it! Whether it’s gameday or you’re making these golden morsels for a summer potluck, everyone is sure to love them.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It really doesn’t get any simpler than this. You don’t need anything fancy to make fried cauliflower, only a handful of pantry staples! If you’re looking for measurements, they can all be found below in the recipe card.
- Cauliflower: Cut into florets. The size is up to you!
- Flour and Cornstarch: You’ll need a mix of both to achieve the perfect crispy crust.
- Salt and Pepper: To add some flavor to the breading. You can also add a sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika if you’d like!
- Milk: Adjusts the consistency of the batter and also helps it stick to the florets.
- Oil for Frying: I used vegetable oil, but you could also use another type of frying oil like peanut or canola. Whatever you have on hand!
How to Make Crispy Fried Cauliflower
Even though you do have to fry in oil, (don’t let that intimidate you!) these fried cauliflower bites are pretty easy to make. They only take 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes to cook, making them a great appetizer to throw together when you’re short on time. Let’s get started!
- Prepare Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower in half and then cut into florets.
- Mix Batter Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl add the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add the milk to the flour mixture and whisk until combined.
- Heat Oil: In a large pot, add the oil about 3 inches up the sides. Heat the oil to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also use a deep fryer if you desire.
- Coat With Batter: Dip each floret into the batter and remove excess by shaking with a fork. Then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Deep Fry: Add the florets with tongs to the hot oil. Fry for about 4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove with a slotted spoon to drain excess oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Enjoy fried cauliflower with your favorite dipping sauce!
Can I Make Fried Cauliflower in the Air Fryer?
Yes! Add a single layer of battered florets to your air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Flip your cauliflower halfway through the cooking time so each piece gets nice and crispy. Make sure that there’s plenty of room between each piece of cauliflower, air flow is crucial to crispy fried cauliflower!
Tasty Dipping Sauces
To me, fried cauliflower is only as good as the sauce to dip it in. We love a good homemade sauce at my house! Here are a few of my favorite recipes that will add a pop of creamy flavor to these delicious fried cauliflower bites. For more inspiration, find my full list of sauces and dips here!
Dressings, Sauces, and Dips
Cane’s Sauce
Dressings, Sauces, and Dips
Copycat Chick fil A Sauce Recipe
Dressings, Sauces, and Dips
Sriracha Mayo
Dressings, Sauces, and Dips
Comeback Sauce
Storing Leftovers
Fried cauliflower is best served fresh. You’ve got to taste this breading fresh out of the fryer! If you have any leftovers, they can be kept in an airtight container for about 3 days in the fridge, but keep in mind that your cauliflower may become soggy as it sits. To crisp up any leftovers, pop them in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
More Tasty Ways to Use Cauliflower
Side Dishes
Amazingly Delicious Cauliflower Tots
Side Dishes
Creamy Cauliflower Au Gratin with Bacon
Appetizers
Air Fryer Honey Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
Dinner
Cauliflower Mac and Cheese (Low Carb and Keto Friendly!)
Deep-Fried Cauliflower
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 cups flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 3 cups milk
- oil for frying
Instructions
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Cut the cauliflower in half and then cut into florets.
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In a medium-sized bowl add the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add the milk and whisk until combined.
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In a large pot, add the oil about 3 inches up the sides. Heat the oil to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also use a deep fryer if you desire.
-
Dip each floret into the batter and remove excess by shaking with a fork. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Add the florets with tongs to the hot oil. Fry for about 4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown.
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Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!
