Introduction
These Crispy Cauliflower Bites are a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional fried snacks. The cauliflower florets are coated in a light, seasoned batter, baked (or air-fried) until golden and crunchy, then paired with a creamy spicy yogurt sauce that adds the perfect zing. Whether you’re entertaining guests, looking for a healthy snack, or exploring more plant-based dishes, this recipe delivers the ideal balance of crisp, spice, and creaminess.
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower Bites:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
- ½ cup water (adjust as needed for batter consistency)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika (or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor)
- ½ tsp turmeric (optional, for color)
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing or spraying)
For the Spicy Yogurt Sauce:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (or regular plain yogurt)
- 1 tbsp hot sauce or sriracha
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp honey or maple syrup
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh chopped herbs (optional: cilantro, parsley, or dill)
Instructions / Method
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, paprika, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add water and whisk until smooth — the batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but not too runny.
Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, shake off excess, then roll in breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
- Place the coated florets on the prepared tray.
Step 4: Bake or Air-Fry
- Oven Method: Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Air Fryer Method: Air fry for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway, until crisp and browned.
- Lightly brush or spray olive oil over the florets before baking for extra crunch.
Step 5: Make the Spicy Yogurt Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, hot sauce, lemon juice, honey, garlic powder, and salt.
- Adjust spice level and tang to taste. Garnish with herbs if desired.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the crispy cauliflower bites hot with the spicy yogurt sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs.
Tips & Variations
- For extra heat: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the batter.
- For vegan version: Use a plant-based yogurt and a flaxseed batter (2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 5 tbsp water).
- For added crunch: Mix crushed cornflakes into the breadcrumbs.