Crispy Cauliflower Recipe
Make Crispy Cauliflower Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Tapas
Method
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- 1
Prep and preheat
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
Prepare cauliflower
Wash and dry the cauliflower, then cut into bite-sized florets about 1.5 inches.
- 3
Make batter
In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 0.5 cup cornstarch, 1 tsp garlic powder (batter), 1 tsp onion powder, 0.5 tsp smoked paprika (batter), 0.5 tsp salt (batter), and 0.25 tsp black pepper. Gradually whisk in 1 cup sparkling water until the batter is smooth and thick.
- 4
Coat florets in batter
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip back into the bowl.
- 5
Coat in breadcrumbs
Roll the battered florets in 1 cup panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
- 6
Arrange and oil
Place coated florets on the lined baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly drizzle or spray with 2 tbs olive oil to help crisp.
- 7
Bake and finish
Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. For extra crunch, switch to a short broil for 1–2 minutes.
- 8
Make dipping sauce
In a small bowl, combine 0.5 cup mayonnaise, 2 tsp lemon juice, 0.5 tsp garlic powder (sauce), 0.25 tsp smoked paprika (sauce), and 0.25 tsp salt (sauce). Stir until smooth. Adjust salt to taste.
- 9
Serve
Transfer the crispy cauliflower bites to a serving platter and offer the dipping sauce on the side.


