Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower with Gochujang: Quick and Flavorful
Short introduction
Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower, also known as Gochujang Cauliflower, is a delicious and healthier twist on traditional fried cauliflower. Using an air fryer allows you to achieve that perfect crispy texture with less oil, making it a light and flavorful dish. This recipe combines the earthy goodness of cauliflower with the spicy and savory flavors of Korean chili paste, resulting in a dish that’s perfect as an appetizer or a side.
Why you’ll love it
This dish not only satisfies your cravings for spicy and crunchy snacks, but it also brings several benefits. Cauliflower is low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a great addition to any diet. The air-frying technique uses less oil than traditional frying, allowing you to enjoy this dish guilt-free. Plus, the flavor combination of Gochujang, soy sauce, and garlic brings excitement to your taste buds, making it a fun and tasty option for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 medium heads cauliflower (cut into florets, about 650g)
- 1 ½ cups gluten-free flour blend (or brown rice flour)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 ¾ cups seltzer water (extra cold)
- ½ cup maple syrup (or agave nectar, reduce to ¼ cup if sensitive to sweetness)
- 6 tbsp soy sauce (use low-sodium if sensitive to salt)
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 3 tbsp minced garlic (2-3 cloves)
- 2 tbsp minced fresh ginger
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 5 tbsp Korean chili paste or sauce
- ¼ cup mirin
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- Toasted sesame oil (or vegetable oil, for spraying)
- ¼ cup chopped green onion
- 1 tbsp toasted white sesame seeds
- 1 lime
Substitutions & key variations
- If you’re avoiding gluten, use a gluten-free flour blend. You can also use almond flour for a nutty flavor.
- For those who prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of Korean chili paste.
- You can add other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for a more colorful mix.
- Experiment with different dipping sauces; a spicy mayo or yogurt-based sauce pairs well.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Preheat the air fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (or your oven to 425°F if baking). Line the air fryer pan with parchment paper. If baking, put a cooling rack on a baking sheet and place parchment on top. This will help the cauliflower crisp up nicely.
Step 2: Prepare the cauliflower
Cut the cauliflower into small florets.
Step 3: Make the batter
In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: gluten-free flour blend, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir in the cold seltzer water until everything is just combined. You want the batter to be thick, similar to pancake batter. If it feels too thin, add 1 tablespoon of flour at a time until you reach the right consistency.
Step 4: Coat the cauliflower
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring they are evenly coated. Place them on the rack or in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
Step 5: Air fry the cauliflower
Spray the cauliflower with cooking spray or lightly brush with 1-2 tablespoons of oil. Air fry for 17 minutes, flipping halfway through. If baking, do it for 20-22 minutes, also flipping halfway through.
Step 6: Make the sauce
While the cauliflower is cooking, prepare the sauce by combining the soaked ingredients: maple syrup, soy sauce, light brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, apple cider vinegar, toasted sesame oil, Korean chili paste, mirin, and the extra cornstarch. Mix until smooth.
Step 7: Toss and serve
Once the cauliflower is done, toss the hot cauliflower with the prepared sauce until well coated.
Success tips
- Maintain the right temperature in your air fryer for that crispy texture.
- Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
- For the best results, use extra cold seltzer water to create a lighter batter.
How to serve
Serve your Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. It makes an excellent appetizer, party snack, or a side dish to complement your favorite Asian meals.
Storage & reheating
Store leftover cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cauliflower back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore its crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, but it’s best to thaw and pat them dry before coating to prevent excess moisture.
2. Is Gochujang very spicy? Gochujang has a mild to medium heat level, but you can adjust the amount according to your preference.
3. Can I bake these if I don’t have an air fryer? Yes! Just follow the baking instructions and ensure to use a cooling rack to enhance crispiness.
4. How do I know when the cauliflower is done? The cauliflower should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can always taste test a piece!
5. Can I customize the spice? Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of Gochujang or add other spices to suit your taste.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
Cauliflower is a rich source of vitamins K and C, and it’s low in carbs, making it an excellent choice for most diet plans.
Conclusion
Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re treating yourself or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and crispy texture. Don’t hesitate to give it a try, and discover a new favorite recipe!
Links to related recipes
- Spicy Korean Tofu Stir-Fry
- Homemade Vegan Gochujang Sauce
- Crispy Baked Cauliflower Wings