So, if you’re into cauliflower (or trying to be), these two recipes are ones you’ve gotta try. Buffalo cauliflower in the air fryer is an awesome, lighter swap for wings, and riced cauliflower is the easiest low-carb alternative to rice. They’re both so easy to make, and they’ll totally satisfy those comfort food cravings without the guilt. Let’s get into it!
1. Why Cauliflower?
Honestly, cauliflower can be a bit boring on its own. But once you start using it in new ways, it’s a total game changer. It soaks up flavors really well and can be used in place of stuff like rice, mashed potatoes, or even meat (well, sorta). Plus, it’s packed with fiber, low in carbs, and loaded with vitamins. So yeah, it’s good for you!
2. Buffalo Cauliflower: Wing Lovers, This One’s for You
Love wings but want to cut back on the deep-fried stuff? Buffalo cauliflower is a great alternative. It’s spicy, crispy, and still gives you that Buffalo flavor we all love. And when you throw it in the air fryer, it comes out perfectly crisp without the need for a lot of oil. Win-win!
3. What You’ll Need for Buffalo Cauliflower
Let’s keep it simple with the ingredients:
- 1 head of cauliflower
- 1/2 cup flour (or almond flour if you’re going gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup water
- Garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper (just a pinch of each)
- Buffalo sauce (grab your favorite)
- Olive oil spray (optional, but helps it get crispier)
4. How to Make Buffalo Cauliflower in the Air Fryer
Here’s the easy breakdown:
- Chop the Cauliflower: Cut it into bite-size pieces. You want them small enough to cook quickly but not so small they fall apart.
- Make the Batter: Mix the flour, water, and spices in a bowl until smooth.
- Coat the Cauliflower: Dip the cauliflower pieces into the batter, making sure they’re fully covered.
- Air Fry: Toss them into the air fryer at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes. Shake them halfway through to make sure all sides get crispy.
- Toss in Buffalo Sauce: When they’re golden brown, toss them in your favorite Buffalo sauce.
5. Why You Should Use an Air Fryer
If you haven’t tried using an air fryer yet, now’s the time. It makes everything crispy without using a ton of oil. Buffalo cauliflower is perfect in it because you get that crunch without frying. Plus, it’s faster and easier than baking them in the oven.
6. What to Serve with Buffalo Cauliflower
Buffalo cauliflower is great on its own, but if you want to make it a full meal, you’ve got options. You can keep it classic with some ranch or blue cheese dip, or get creative and throw them in a wrap, tacos, or even a salad.
7. Let’s Switch Gears: Riced Cauliflower
If you’re trying to cut carbs, riced cauliflower is probably the easiest swap you can make. It’s light, fluffy, and you can use it in place of rice for almost any dish. Plus, it’s super quick to make and you only need one ingredient—cauliflower!
8. How to Make Riced Cauliflower
Making riced cauliflower is way easier than you might think:
- Food Processor: Throw your cauliflower florets in and pulse until they look like grains of rice.
- Box Grater: If you don’t have a food processor, use the big holes on a box grater to grate the cauliflower. It takes a little more effort, but it works just as well.
9. How to Cook Riced Cauliflower
Once you’ve got your riced cauliflower, just heat a little olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the cauliflower and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste. It’s as simple as that.
10. Ways to Flavor Riced Cauliflower
On its own, riced cauliflower is pretty plain, but that’s what makes it awesome for adding flavors. Here are a few easy ideas:
- Garlic and herbs (like parsley or cilantro)
- Parmesan or cheddar for a cheesy version
- Soy sauce and veggies for a quick stir-fry
11. Health Benefits of Riced Cauliflower
Cauliflower is naturally low in carbs and calories, making it an awesome option if you’re watching your intake. But it’s also packed with fiber, which helps keep you full. And let’s not forget about the vitamins—it’s full of them!
12. How to Store Riced Cauliflower
Got leftovers? No problem. Riced cauliflower stores really well in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze it in portions. Just pop it in a freezer bag, flatten it out, and when you’re ready to use it, cook it straight from frozen.
13. Dishes You Can Make with Riced Cauliflower
Here’s where you can get creative. Riced cauliflower works in so many dishes:
- Cauliflower Fried Rice: Toss it with some veggies, soy sauce, and eggs for a quick meal.
- Burrito Bowls: Swap out the rice and use cauliflower rice as the base for a healthy bowl.
- Side Dish: Serve it alongside any protein like grilled chicken or fish.
14. Pairing Buffalo Cauliflower and Riced Cauliflower for a Meal
Want to make it a full cauliflower experience? Serve your spicy Buffalo cauliflower over a bed of riced cauliflower. It’s filling, flavorful, and perfect if you’re trying to keep things light but still tasty.
15. Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a healthier version of Buffalo wings or a low-carb alternative to rice, cauliflower has got you covered. These two recipes—Buffalo cauliflower in the air fryer and riced cauliflower—are easy to make and packed with flavor. Give them a try, and you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy this underrated veggie.