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Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower Vegan

Name: Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 2 medium heads cauliflower, cut into florets (about 650g); 1 1/2 cups gluten-free flour blend (or brown rice flour); 2 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 3/4 cups seltzer water, extra cold; 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1/2 cup maple syrup (or agave nectar); 6 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 1/4 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; 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth; 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water (for slurry); 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish); 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)

It’s time to elevate your vegetable game with a dish that’s packed with flavor, vibrancy, and a touch of spice. Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower is a sensational option for vegans and non-vegans alike, bringing a unique twist to a humble vegetable. Crispy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, this dish is bound to become a household favorite. Whether you’re prepping for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe will surely impress.

Why Make This Recipe

Crispy and Flavorful: Get the delightful crunch of fried cauliflower without the guilt thanks to the air fryer.
Packed with Korean Flavors: Authentic Gochujang and fresh garlic and ginger lend exciting flavors that dance on your palate.
Versatile and Fun: Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. Pair it with rice or noodles for a fulfilling meal.

Easy Method for Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower

Creating this mouthwatering dish is simpler than you might think. Let’s delve into the steps that will guide you from fresh cauliflower florets to a beautifully crispy dish bathed in a luscious Korean chili sauce.

Ingredients

2 medium heads cauliflower, cut into florets (about 650g)
1 1/2 cups gluten-free flour blend (or brown rice flour)
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp garlic powder
1 3/4 cups seltzer water, extra cold
1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1/2 cup maple syrup (or agave nectar, reduce to 1/4 cup if sensitive to sweetness)
6 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1/4 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
1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water (for slurry)
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Prepare Cauliflower Florets
Start by washing the cauliflower heads thoroughly. Pat them dry, then core and remove the leaves. Break them into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in size. Once done, lay the florets on a clean towel and pat them dry completely to eliminate excess moisture.
Craft the Crispy Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Slowly pour in the extra-cold seltzer water while stirring until you achieve a smooth, thick pancake-like batter. Be careful not to overmix. Add the dried cauliflower florets to the bowl and gently toss them in the batter to ensure an even coating.
Air Fry the Cauliflower (Batch 1)
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Arrange a single layer of the battered cauliflower florets inside the basket without crowding them. Air fry for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping or shaking the florets midway (at around the 8-10 minute mark) until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Air Fry Remaining Cauliflower
Once the first batch is done, carefully remove the cooked cauliflower and keep it warm in an oven set to 200°F (95°C) if desired. Repeat the spraying and frying process for the remaining battered florets until they are crispy and cooked through.
Craft the Korean Chili Sauce
While the cauliflower is cooking, it’s time to make the sauce. Combine Gochujang, maple syrup, soy sauce, light brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, toasted sesame oil, and either water or vegetable broth in a medium saucepan. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it simmers gently, stirring occasionally for about 3 to 4 minutes.
Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, prepare a slurry by whisking together 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. As the sauce is simmering, slowly pour the slurry into the pot while continuously whisking. Allow the sauce to thicken significantly for 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes glossy. Remove from heat and taste; adjust flavors to your liking.
Combine and Serve
Transfer all the crispy air-fried cauliflower into a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm Korean chili sauce over the florets. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece in the delectable sauce. Serve on a platter or in individual bowls, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions. Enjoy immediately over steamed rice, quinoa, noodles, or in lettuce wraps.

Storing Leftover Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower

To keep your delicious creation fresh for the next day, follow these simple storage guidelines:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days at 40°F (4°C).
Freezing: You can also freeze the air-fried cauliflower for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until crispy again. This will help regain some of that initial crunch.

Serving Suggestions for Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower

One of the best aspects of this dish is its versatility. Here are several presentation ideas to enhance your meal experience:

Rice Bowl Delight: Serve the air-fried cauliflower over a steaming bowl of jasmine or basmati rice. Top with sliced avocado, radishes, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Taco Twist: Use this cauliflower as a filling for tacos. Add some cabbage slaw, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a vibrant and crunchy dish.
Salad Booster: Add crispy cauliflower to your salads for extra texture and flavor. A sesame vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of the dish.
Party Appetizer: Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks and a small bowl of extra warm sauce for dipping, encouraging guests to dive right in.
Noodle Bowl: Toss the crispy cauliflower with noodles and fresh veggies for a delightful main dish, drizzled with additional sauce for extra flavor.

Tips to Make Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower

Select the Right Cauliflower: Opt for firm, fresh-looking heads of cauliflower. Avoid any that are brown or wilted.
Batch Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer. This ensures even cooking and maximizes crispiness.
Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Gochujang according to your spice tolerance. A touch less will give you a milder flavor.
Soak the Flour: If you have the time, let the batter sit for 15 minutes before battering the cauliflower for extra fluffiness.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A handful of fresh cilantro or parsley can add a nice finish to your dish.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to experiment or customize the recipe, consider these options:

Different Flour Alternatives: If gluten isn’t a concern, regular all-purpose flour can work perfectly in place of a gluten-free blend.
Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños to the batter for an extra kick in every bite.
Sweetness Adjustments: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the maple syrup further or play with the vinegar’s tanginess for balance.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Indeed! You can prepare the cauliflower and sauce in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat and combine.

Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: To increase the heat level, add more Gochujang, sprinkle in some chili flakes, or top with sliced fresh chilies when serving.

Q: What can I serve this with?
A: This dish pairs well with white rice, quinoa, or as a filling in wraps or tacos. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad.

Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower?
A: Fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture, but if using frozen, ensure to thaw and pat dry thoroughly before battering.

Final Thoughts

Air Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower is not just a dish; it’s an expression of flavor, creativity, and healthiness that deserves a rightful place on your dining table. With its crispy edges and gloriously spicy sauce, this recipe checks all the boxes for a satisfying meal or snack. Whether you’re looking for a standout side for your dinner gathering or simply want to spice up your weeknight meals, this dish is a vibrant solution. Dive in and experience the explosion of flavors with every bite. Enjoy!