Introduction
Crispy Battered Fried Cauliflower is a delicious and satisfying dish that offers a perfect balance of crunch and flavor. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, this recipe is sure to impress with its golden-brown coating and tender cauliflower inside.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 cup cold sparkling water (or regular water)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for spice)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Slowly add the sparkling water, whisking until a smooth batter forms. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
Step 2: Coat the Cauliflower
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it is well coated.
- Allow any excess batter to drip off before frying.
Step 3: Fry Until Crispy
- Carefully drop the battered cauliflower into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve hot with dipping sauces like ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
- Serve alongside a bowl of soup for added crunch.
- Enjoy as a snack with a tangy dipping sauce.
Tips for the Best Crispy Cauliflower
- Use sparkling water for a lighter, crispier batter.
- Ensure the oil is at the right temperature (350°F/175°C) before frying.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain crispiness.
- Add seasoning immediately after frying for maximum flavor absorption.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the batter.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix shredded cheese into the batter for extra richness.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use rice flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Conclusion
Crispy Battered Fried Cauliflower is a fun and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy the delightful crunch with every bite!
