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Air fryer battered cauliflower with a crispy golden coating, tender cauliflower florets, and fresh lemon wedges
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Air Fryer Battered Cauliflower - Crispy, Light, and Seriously Satisfying

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or a 1:1 gluten-free blend)
  • 1/3 cup cornstarch (for extra crispness)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to finish
  • 3/4 to 1 cup cold sparkling water (or cold regular water), as needed
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for mild heat)
  • Oil spray (avocado, canola, or olive oil spray)
  • Lemon wedges, fresh parsley, or chives for serving (optional)
  • Your favorite dipping sauces: ranch, spicy mayo, buffalo, or sweet chili

Instructions

  • Prep the cauliflower: Rinse and pat dry thoroughly. Cut into even, bite-size florets so they cook at the same rate. Drying well helps the batter stick.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. A hot basket makes the coating crisper.
  • Make the dry mix: In a large bowl, whisk the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, pepper, and salt until combined.
  • Add the liquid: Pour in 3/4 cup cold sparkling water and hot sauce (if using). Whisk until just smooth. The batter should be similar to pancake batter—thick enough to cling, but not gloopy. Add more water a tablespoon at a time if it’s too thick.
  • Batter the florets: Add the cauliflower to the bowl and toss to coat. Let excess batter drip off each piece so it doesn’t pool in the air fryer.
  • Oil the basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket. This helps prevent sticking and promotes even browning.
  • Arrange and spray: Place battered florets in a single layer, not touching. Lightly mist the tops with oil spray. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if needed.
  • Air fry: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–13 minutes, flipping halfway and spraying any dry spots. They’re done when golden and crisp with a tender center.
  • Season and serve: Sprinkle with a pinch of salt right out of the fryer. Add a squeeze of lemon and herbs if you like. Serve hot with your favorite dip.