Air-Fryer Cauliflower: The Perfect Timing

Air fryers are a quick and easy way to cook cauliflower, with most recipes taking no longer than 15 minutes. The cooking time will depend on the size of your florets and your desired texture. Smaller florets will cook faster and result in crispier edges. You can also use frozen cauliflower in an air fryer, but it is recommended that you season it while it is still frozen and do not thaw it beforehand to prevent a mushy texture.

How to cut cauliflower

To cut cauliflower, you'll need to start by removing any coarse leaves from the base of the head. Then, using a sharp knife, cut the cauliflower in half vertically. You can then lay the halves cut-side down on a cutting board and cut them vertically again to create four quarters.

Next, you'll want to cut out the cores. Angle your knife to cut out the core from each quarter. The cores can be chopped and cooked, or even eaten raw as a snack, so don't throw them away!

Once the cores are removed, you can use your hands to break off large florets, following the natural divisions. If you want smaller florets, you can use a knife to cut each floret into smaller portions. You can also use a knife to split the branch that holds the flower buds together, then use your hands to pull the buds apart for a more natural division.

And that's it! You now know how to cut cauliflower into florets.

How to season cauliflower

To season cauliflower, start by removing the leaves and washing the cauliflower head. Then, cut the cauliflower into florets. Place the florets in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. You can also add lemon juice for a bright flavor.

Next, season the cauliflower with spices of your choice. Some popular options include smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. You can also add cayenne pepper, onion powder, turmeric, or curry powder for extra heat and flavor.

Toss the florets to ensure they are well coated in the seasoning. You can then cook the cauliflower as desired, such as roasting it in the oven or air fryer.

• Smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
• Turmeric, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
• Curry powder, cumin, coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, or chili powder
• Garlic Parmesan: add minced garlic and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese halfway through cooking
• Chili Lime: use lime juice instead of lemon juice and add chili powder to the spices

How to air fry cauliflower

Air-fried cauliflower is a quick, easy, and tasty way to cook this versatile vegetable. It's perfect as a side dish or a snack and can be seasoned in a variety of ways. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to air fry cauliflower to crispy, tender perfection.

Ingredients:

• 1 small head of cauliflower
• Olive oil or another oil of your choice (avocado, vegetable, or corn oil)
• Spices/seasonings of your choice (suggested options include smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, turmeric, cumin, oregano, onion powder, ground mustard)
• Optional: lemon juice, for a bright, fresh flavor

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Start by removing the leaves and cutting off the stalk of the cauliflower so that it can sit flat on your counter. Then, cut the head in half vertically and remove the core, either by hand or by slicing at an angle. The florets will naturally separate, or you can use the tip of your knife to separate them. Aim for small to medium-sized florets to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Season the Cauliflower

Place the florets in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Add your chosen spices and seasonings, then toss the florets to ensure they are well coated. You can also add lemon juice at this stage for a bright, tangy flavor.

Step 3: Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to between 380-400°F (193-200°C). Place the seasoned cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.

Air fry for 7-15 minutes, depending on the size of your florets, shaking the basket every few minutes to ensure even browning and cooking. Smaller florets will cook faster and result in more crispy edges.

Step 4: Serve

Your air-fried cauliflower is now ready to serve! It can be enjoyed warm or cold, and pairs well with a variety of main courses, such as chicken, beef, seafood, or pork. For an extra flavor boost, serve with a squeeze of lemon juice or a dipping sauce such as garlic aioli, tartar sauce, or vegan ranch.

Tips:

• Keep an eye on your cauliflower as it cooks, as it can burn easily.
• For an extra crispy coating, you can dredge the florets in a panko breadcrumb mixture before air frying.
• If using frozen cauliflower, ensure it is completely thawed before cooking to avoid a "mushy" texture.
• Cooked cauliflower can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days and reheated in the air fryer or microwave.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy air-fried cauliflower!

How to reheat cauliflower

Firstly, it is important to note that cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that can be reheated and served as a snack or side dish. Reheating cauliflower in an air fryer is a quick and convenient option that can bring out the vegetable's natural sweetness.

To reheat cauliflower, start by preheating your air fryer to 320-350°F (160-177°C). The optimal temperature may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the amount of cauliflower you are reheating.

Next, prepare the cauliflower florets by placing them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Ensure they are not overcrowded, as this can affect the cooking process. If needed, cook the cauliflower in batches to ensure even heating.

Reheat the cauliflower for 2-3 minutes at the set temperature. Keep a close eye on the cauliflower, as it can burn easily in an air fryer. Shake the basket or stir the cauliflower halfway through the reheating process to ensure even cooking.

Once the cauliflower is heated through and slightly crispy, it is ready to be served. You can enjoy it as is or with your favorite dipping sauce.

Additionally, it is worth noting that while reheating cauliflower in an air fryer is the preferred method to maintain its texture and flavor, you can also use a microwave. However, microwaving may result in a softer, mushier texture.

How to cut cauliflower leaves and stems

To cut cauliflower leaves and stems, start by removing the coarse leaves from the base of the head. You can do this by hand or with a knife on a wooden cutting board.

Next, cut the cauliflower stalk so that it can sit flat on your counter or cutting board. You can use a chef's knife to cut the stalk.

Now, you can either slice the whole head of cauliflower into quarters or cut each floret away from the stem one by one. This will leave the stem intact, but you will have to cut the florets into smaller pieces. If you slice the head into quarters, you can cut away at the fibrous stem in the centre.

Finally, you can break down any large clusters of florets by cutting along the stem lines. The vegetable will naturally break where it wants to, and the pieces will pop right off.

Frequently asked questions