Crispy Fried Cauliflower Bites

📝 Ingredients
1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup milk (or buttermilk for extra flavor)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs preferred for extra crispiness)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)
Vegetable oil, for frying
Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (for garnish)
Optional Dipping Sauce:
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 teaspoon mustard
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
👨‍🍳 Instructions
Crispy Fried Cauliflower Bites are the perfect appetizer or snack for anyone who loves crunchy textures with a tender, flavorful inside. This recipe transforms simple cauliflower into irresistible golden bites that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Start by washing the cauliflower thoroughly under cold running water. Remove the leaves and cut the cauliflower into medium-sized florets. Try to keep them similar in size so they cook evenly. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously until you get a smooth, thick batter. The batter should coat the cauliflower well without being too runny.
Place the breadcrumbs in a separate bowl and mix them with the grated Parmesan cheese if you are using it. This step adds extra crispiness and a rich savory flavor.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure it is fully coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off, then roll the floret in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs stick well. Repeat the process until all florets are coated.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking (around 170–180°C / 340–355°F). Carefully add the cauliflower florets in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Fry the cauliflower for about 3–4 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until they become golden brown and crispy on all sides. Once done, remove them using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
While the cauliflower rests, prepare the dipping sauce by mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir well until smooth and creamy.
Serve the crispy cauliflower bites hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or chives. Pair them with the dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor. These bites are perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or even a vegetarian alternative to fried chicken.