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Air Fryer Korean Cauliflower - Crispy, Saucy, and Easy

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

Ingredients

  • Cauliflower: 1 large head, cut into bite-size florets
  • Eggs: 2 large (for the batter)
  • All-purpose flour: 1/2 cup
  • Cornstarch: 1/3 cup (plus an extra tablespoon for dusting)
  • Baking powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Kosher salt and black pepper
  • Neutral oil: Avocado or canola spray for the air fryer basket and florets
  • Gochujang: 2–3 tablespoons (Korean red chili paste)
  • Soy sauce or tamari: 2 tablespoons
  • Honey or maple syrup: 2 tablespoons
  • Rice vinegar: 1 tablespoon
  • Toasted sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, finely minced
  • Fresh ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated (optional but great)
  • Water: 2–3 tablespoons to thin the sauce
  • Sesame seeds: For garnish
  • Green onions: 2–3, thinly sliced
  • Cooked rice or lettuce leaves (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  • Prep the cauliflower. Cut into even, bite-size florets. Rinse and pat very dry. The drier they are, the crispier they’ll get.
  • Make the batter. In a bowl, whisk eggs, flour, 1/3 cup cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and a few grinds of pepper. Add 2–3 tablespoons water to create a smooth, thick batter that clings to the florets.
  • Coat the florets. Toss cauliflower in the batter until well coated. For extra crunch, sprinkle on 1 tablespoon cornstarch and toss lightly to form a thin, craggy layer.
  • Preheat the air fryer. Set to 390°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with oil.
  • Air fry in batches. Arrange florets in a single layer without crowding. Lightly mist the tops with oil. Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until deep golden and crisp. Repeat with remaining florets.
  • Make the sauce. While the cauliflower cooks, combine gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a small saucepan. Add 2 tablespoons water. Simmer on low for 2–3 minutes until glossy. If too thick, add a splash more water. Taste and adjust heat or sweetness.
  • Sauce and toss. Transfer hot cauliflower to a large bowl. Drizzle on enough sauce to coat (you may have a little extra). Toss gently so the crust stays intact.
  • Garnish and serve. Top with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve right away with rice, in lettuce wraps, or as a finger food with toothpicks.