Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan

Experience crispy air-fried cauliflower florets coated in a vibrant, sweet, savory, and tangy Korean-inspired sauce. This Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan dish offers an explosion of texture and taste, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a stunning appetizer, a side dish for dinner, or a satisfying main course, this recipe will impress everyone at your table. Its unique flavor profile and pleasing crunch are sure to make it a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives the cauliflower an irresistible crunch without excess oil.
• Flavorful Sauce: The Korean-inspired sauce balances sweetness and tanginess, elevating the dish.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for various diets.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients come together effortlessly for a delightful meal.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer, side, or main dish alongside rice or quinoa.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: Cooks the cauliflower evenly while achieving that perfect crispy texture with minimal oil.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients separately before mixing them together.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter without lumps for coating the cauliflower perfectly.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 medium heads cauliflower, cut into florets (about 650g)
– 1 ½ cups gluten-free flour blend, or brown rice flour
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 1 tbsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– ¼ tsp black pepper
– 1 ¾ cups seltzer water, extra cold
– ½ cup maple syrup, or agave nectar (reduce to ¼ cup if sensitive to sweetness)
– 6 tbsp soy sauce, use low-sodium if sensitive to salt
– ¼ cup light brown sugar
– 3 tbsp minced garlic (2-3 cloves)
– 2 tbsp minced fresh ginger
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil

How to Make Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower Florets

Core and cut your cauliflower into bite-sized florets (aim for 1 to 1.5 inches for even cooking). Rinse them thoroughly under cold water, then pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Ensuring they are dry is crucial for achieving crispiness.

Step 2: Craft the Crispy Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry batter ingredients:
* gluten-free flour blend
* cornstarch
* baking powder
* garlic powder
* black pepper
* salt

Whisk them well. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients:
* seltzer water
* apple cider vinegar

Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while whisking continuously until you have a smooth batter similar to thick pancake batter. Adjust with more seltzer or flour if needed.

Step 3: Preheat Air Fryer and Coat Cauliflower

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Add the prepared cauliflower florets to the batter bowl. Using tongs or a spatula, gently toss the florets until each piece is completely coated. Lift each floret, allowing any excess batter to drip off.

Step 4: Air Fry the Cauliflower to Golden Perfection

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Arrange the battered cauliflower florets in a single layer in the basket without overcrowding. Cook these in multiple batches if necessary. Air fry for about 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5–7 minutes for even cooking. You may lightly spray the florets with extra oil halfway through for additional crispness. Continue cooking until tender inside and golden brown on the outside.

Step 5: Whisk Up the Irresistible Korean-Inspired Sauce

While the cauliflower cooks, heat toasted sesame oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced fresh ginger and garlic; sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt. Add soy sauce, maple syrup, light brown sugar, and water (or vegetable broth) to the pan. Whisk thoroughly and bring it to a gentle simmer for about 2–3 minutes.

Taste and adjust sweetness or tang as desired. Create a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with cold water from your ingredient list. Pour this into the simmering sauce while whisking continuously until thickened (about 1–2 minutes). Remove from heat.

Step 6: Combine and Serve the Dish

Once all cauliflower florets are air-fried, transfer them into a large mixing bowl. Pour warm Korean-inspired sauce over crispy cauliflower. Using tongs or a rubber spatula, gently toss until each floret is generously coated in sauce. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor, garnished with toasted sesame seeds, thinly sliced green onions, and fresh chopped cilantro.

This dish is excellent as a main course with rice or quinoa or as an appetizer or side that will wow your guests!

How to Serve Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan

This vibrant dish is not only delicious but also versatile. Enhance your dining experience by serving Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan in a variety of ways that complement its bold flavors.

As a Main Course

• Pair with steamed rice for a satisfying meal.
• Serve over quinoa for a protein-packed option.

As an Appetizer

• Enjoy as finger food at parties or gatherings.
• Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking.

In Tacos

• Fill corn tortillas with the cauliflower and top with fresh veggies.
• Add avocado slices for creaminess and extra flavor.

As a Salad Topper

• Use as a topping on mixed greens for added crunch.
• Drizzle with extra sauce for enhanced taste.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer additional sauces like vegan ranch or spicy sriracha on the side.
• Create a dipping platter that includes fresh vegetables.

How to Perfect Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan

To achieve the best results when making this dish, consider these helpful tips that ensure crispy, flavorful cauliflower every time.

• Choose Fresh Cauliflower: Look for firm florets without brown spots for the best texture and taste.
• Dry Thoroughly: After rinsing, ensure the cauliflower is completely dry to help the batter adhere better and achieve maximum crispiness.
• Adjust Batter Consistency: If your batter seems too thick, add a little more seltzer water until you reach the desired pancake-like consistency.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches to allow hot air to circulate freely around each floret, ensuring even cooking and crispness.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer to ensure that the cauliflower cooks evenly from the start.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cauliflower during air frying; every air fryer is different, so adjust cooking times if needed.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan

Pairing side dishes with Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options to complement its flavors.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and additional nutrients without overwhelming flavors.
2. Coconut Rice: The sweetness of coconut rice pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the cauliflower.
3. Kimchi: This fermented dish adds tangy spice, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
4. Garlic Noodles: Flavorful garlic noodles make a great accompaniment, balancing out the dish’s heat and sweetness.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides crunch and a cool contrast to the warm cauliflower.
6. Miso Soup: This light soup can serve as a comforting starter before diving into your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make small errors when preparing Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of.

• Skipping the Drying Step: Not drying the cauliflower properly can lead to soggy florets. Always dry them well to ensure they become crispy.
• Overcrowding the Air Fryer: Placing too many florets in the fryer at once prevents even cooking. Cook in batches for the best results.
• Ignoring Batter Consistency: A batter that’s too thick or thin can affect texture. Aim for a consistency similar to thick pancake batter.
• Underestimating Cooking Time: Each air fryer varies in performance. Keep an eye on your cauliflower and adjust cooking time as needed for perfect crispiness.
• Neglecting Flavor Adjustments: Taste your sauce before serving. You can always adjust sweetness or tang by adding more maple syrup or vinegar as needed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the cauliflower to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan

• Freeze in an airtight freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing.

Reheating Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds, but note this may soften the cauliflower.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a non-stick pan over medium heat until warmed, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan spicier?

You can add chili flakes or hot sauce to the batter or sauce for extra heat without using gochujang.

Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free flour?

Yes, feel free to substitute with all-purpose flour, but be aware that it will no longer be gluten-free.

How can I customize my Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan?

Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, or serve it over rice for a complete meal.

What dipping sauces pair well with this dish?

A simple soy sauce-based dip or a sesame ginger dressing complements the flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or sauces, making it fit perfectly into any meal plan. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!

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Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience a burst of flavor with Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan, a delightful dish that showcases crispy cauliflower florets coated in a rich, sweet, and tangy Korean-inspired sauce. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you need an impressive appetizer, a delicious side dish, or a satisfying main course. The air fryer ensures a fantastic crunch without the extra oil, while the unique sauce elevates the taste to new heights. Simple to prepare with accessible ingredients, this vegan dish is sure to become a family favorite!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium heads cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 ½ cups gluten-free flour blend
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 ¾ cups seltzer water, extra cold
• ½ cup maple syrup or agave nectar
• 6 tbsp soy sauce
• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• 3 tbsp minced garlic
• 2 tbsp minced fresh ginger
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil

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Instructions

1. Prepare cauliflower florets by rinsing and drying thoroughly.
2. In one bowl, combine dry batter ingredients: flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, mix cold seltzer water and apple cider vinegar.
3. Gradually mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients until smooth.
4. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Coat cauliflower florets in batter and place in the air fryer basket.
5. Air fry for 15–20 minutes, shaking occasionally until golden brown.
6. While cooking, prepare the Korean-inspired sauce by sautéing garlic and ginger in sesame oil, then adding soy sauce and sweeteners before thickening with cornstarch slurry.
7. Toss air-fried cauliflower in the warm sauce and serve immediately.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer/Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup / 150g
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg