These crispy cauliflower bites are deliciously golden and perfect for snacking or as a side dish. They are coated in a flavorful batter and fried until crispy, making them irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 head of cauliflower (about 500g), cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 teaspoon of salt, divided
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (70g)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Approximately 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (70g)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Directions:
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Blanch the cauliflower florets in the boiling water for about 2 minutes to soften slightly. Drain and let them cool.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Add the flour, garlic powder, and dried parsley to the egg mixture. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
- Fold in the grated Parmesan cheese. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but not too runny.
- Coat the Cauliflower:
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Fry the Cauliflower:
- Heat a sufficient amount of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large frying pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a drop of batter sizzles when it touches the oil.
- Carefully add the battered cauliflower to the hot oil in batches. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the cauliflower from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Serve:
- Serve the crispy cauliflower bites hot, ideally with a dipping sauce like ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or your favorite creamy dip.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a creamy dip of your choice.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the cauliflower to ensure a crispy coating.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pan to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cauliflower is low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins C and K.
- Parmesan cheese adds a savory flavor and provides calcium and protein.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe contains dairy and gluten.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- These cauliflower bites are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- The flavorful batter makes them a hit with both kids and adults.
- They are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Conclusion:
Crispy Cauliflower Bites are a tasty and nutritious alternative to traditional fried snacks. With their savory batter and satisfying crunch, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy these delicious bites with your favorite dipping sauce! Bon appétit!