This Air Fryer breaded cauliflower is an incredible recipe that will surprise your palate. Beyond being a healthy option, it turns out super crispy and delicious. It’s the perfect choice for those looking for a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor. Follow the step-by-step guide and discover how to prepare this delight at home.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Breaded Cauliflower:
- 1 small head of cauliflower
- 3 tablespoons white vinegar
- Water (enough to cover the cauliflower)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 pinch of salt
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 pinches of oregano
How to Make Air Fryer Breaded Cauliflower:
- Prep the cauliflower:
- Separate the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
- In a bowl, cover the cauliflower with water and add 3 tablespoons of vinegar. Let it soak for 10 minutes.
- Drain, rinse well, and transfer to a pot. Add enough water to cover, 1 teaspoon of salt, and a splash of vinegar. Boil for 15 minutes or until tender, but not falling apart.
- Drain and shock in cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the egg wash:
- In a bowl, beat 2 eggs with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Set aside.
- Bread the cauliflower:
- On a plate, mix 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan, and 2 pinches of oregano.
- Dredge each floret in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure they are well-coated and dry.
- Air fry:
- Preheat your Air Fryer to 320°F (160°C) for 3 minutes.
- Place the breaded florets in the Air Fryer basket in a single layer, not overlapping.
- Cook at 320°F (160°C) for 20 minutes, turning halfway through. Increase to 355°F (180°C) for the last 10 minutes to brown.
Pro-Tips:
To ensure your breaded cauliflower is extra crispy, follow these essentials:
- Make sure the cauliflower is well-dried before breading.
- Dredge the florets in the flour first to remove any excess moisture.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture lightly onto the florets to ensure a tight coating.
- Leave space between florets in the basket so the hot air can circulate properly.
- Flip the florets halfway through for an even, golden-brown finish.
Prep time:
Total time is approximately 45 minutes, including cleaning, cooking, breading, and air frying.
Servings:
This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Fun Fact:
Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable, a relative of broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. Native to the Mediterranean, it is packed with vitamins C, K, and B6. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber, promoting digestion and satiety. Its neutral flavor makes it a versatile star in modern cooking, from rice substitutes to crispy Air Fryer snacks.
By cooking it in the Air Fryer, you get all the crunch of traditional frying but with a much healthier profile. Enjoy it as a side dish or a snack!