Fried Cauliflower: A Unique Appetizer That Is Really Easy to Prepare!

With its crispy texture and golden colour, this fried cauliflower recipe will be sure to please as an easy appetizer! The cauliflower has a garlicky undertone from the addition of garlic powder and a wonderful texture due to being coated with breadcrumbs and fried.

To make the fried cauliflower, the cauliflower is first cut into florets before being boiled and allowed to cool. Then, the cauliflower florets are dipped in a batter before being coated with breadcrumbs and fried.

What is Fried Cauliflower?

Fried cauliflower is cauliflower florets that are fried in hot oil. While the breading can vary and the cauliflower may sometimes be tossed in a sauce like buffalo sauce, it is always delicious! This version of fried cauliflower uses a breading of breadcrumbs, garlic powder, flour, and chicken stock powder for a flavourful coating.

Pro Tips

• If your cauliflower florets are quite large, you can cut them smaller so they are more bite-sized pieces.
• Don’t overcook the cauliflower florets before you bread them. You only need to cook them for 6 to 7 minutes, which will par-cook them and ensure they fully cook when they are fried in the hot oil.
• When you make the batter, gradually whisk the water into the dry mixture so that no lumps form.
• For added flavor, you can use seasoned bread crumbs rather than plain bread crumbs.
• Make sure the oil isn’t too hot or else the cauliflower may burn before it is fully cooked through. The best temperature for frying is between 350 F (177 C) or 375 F (190 C).

What to Serve with Fried Cauliflower?

This fried cauliflower can be served as an appetizer with a flavourful dipping sauce. Something like a lemon or garlic aioli would be a delicious pairing with the fried cauliflower, but you could also toss the cauliflower with some buffalo sauce if you would like a plant-based appetizer that is similar to chicken wings.

Can I Add Other Seasonings to Fried Cauliflower?

Yes, if you would like to add other seasonings to the cauliflower batter, you can feel free to do so. Italian seasoning, dried basil, or dried thyme are all excellent if you are looking for a more herbaceous flavor. Alternatively, you can add crushed chilies, cayenne, chili powder, onion powder, or paprika if you are looking for even more savory flavor.

What is the Best Temperature for Frying?

The best temperature for frying is between 350 F (177 C) to 375 F (190 C). This way, the cauliflower will cook through and become golden without burning or absorbing tons of oil.

Can I Fry Other Vegetables?

Yes, you can! The coating used for this cauliflower recipe would work well for other vegetables such as broccoli or brussels sprouts. You may have to adjust the boiling time depending on the type of vegetables you use, though.

How to Store Fried Cauliflower

Leftover cauliflower will keep well in the fridge and reheat beautifully in the oven or air fryer to re-crisp the edges. Simply place the cauliflower in an airtight container in the fridge until you are ready to serve it.

How to Make Fried Cauliflower

Step 1: Cut the cauliflower into florets and make a few slits in the top of each piece of cauliflower.

Step 2: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil; add the cauliflower and allow it to cook for 6 to 7 minutes. Drain the cauliflower and allow it to cool down.

Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk the flour with the salt, chicken stock powder, and garlic powder. Gradually whisk in the water to create a batter.

Step 4: Dip each cauliflower floret in the batter followed by the breadcrumbs.

Step 5: Fry the cauliflower in a pot of hot oil until golden and crispy, about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Serve the cauliflower immediately!