Buffalo Cauliflower from Alamo Drafthouse features tender, crispy battered cauliflower tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, served with cool ranch dressing and fresh celery sticks, delivering a zesty and crunchy appetizer experience.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Baking sheet or frying pan
- Parchment paper or wire rack (if baking)
- Tongs
- Saucepan (for buffalo sauce, if making homemade)
- Serving platter or plate
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1–2 cups buffalo sauce
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for buffalo sauce)
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 2–3 celery sticks
Cauliflower should be fresh and firm to ensure a crispy texture after battering and cooking. Use all-purpose flour mixed with water and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a well-seasoned batter that sticks properly. Buffalo sauce can range from mild to very spicy, so adjust the amount according to your heat preference, and consider adding melted butter for a richer flavor. Ranch dressing serves as a cooling contrast, so using a creamy, well-flavored variety enhances the overall balance of the dish. Your Buffalo Cauliflower from the Alamo Drafthouse copycat menu will capture the authentic zesty crunch by combining tender cauliflower with the right batter and sauce ratio.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (if baking) or heat oil in frying pan (if frying).
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper or set up wire rack.
- Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets using knife and cutting board.
- In mixing bowl, whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth batter forms.
- Dip cauliflower florets in batter, coating evenly.
- Arrange battered cauliflower on prepared baking sheet or prepare for frying.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes (turn halfway) or fry until golden and crispy.
- If making buffalo sauce, heat sauce and melted butter in saucepan until combined.
- Transfer cooked cauliflower to mixing bowl.
- Pour buffalo sauce over cauliflower; toss with tongs to coat evenly.
- Transfer buffalo cauliflower to serving platter or plate.
- Serve with ranch dressing and fresh celery sticks.
Substitution
Buffalo Cauliflower from Alamo Drafthouse copycat menu calls for a crispy battered cauliflower coated in spicy buffalo sauce, paired with cool ranch dressing and fresh celery sticks. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with chickpea flour or a gluten-free baking mix without altering the batter texture too much. You can bake the cauliflower on a parchment-lined baking sheet for a healthier version instead of frying, using a wire rack to keep the pieces crisp. Your buffalo sauce can be homemade by whisking together hot sauce and melted butter or replaced with store-bought buffalo wing sauce for convenience. Serving with ranch dressing and celery sticks balances the heat while adding a refreshing crunch to the dish.
Tips
Make sure to coat each cauliflower floret evenly with the batter to achieve a uniform crispy texture when baked or fried. Use parchment paper or a wire rack for baking to prevent sogginess by allowing airflow around the florets. When tossing the cooked cauliflower in buffalo sauce, do so gently with tongs to avoid breaking the crispy coating. Your cauliflower will stay crispier if you serve it immediately with cold ranch dressing and fresh celery sticks as intended.
Nutritions
Buffalo Cauliflower provides a nutrient-rich alternative to traditional buffalo wings, offering high fiber and vitamins from the cauliflower florets. This appetizer delivers antioxidants, vitamin C, and folate from the vegetable, while the batter contributes carbohydrates for energy. Buffalo sauce adds flavor with minimal calories, especially when made from hot sauce and melted butter, while ranch dressing and celery sticks offer additional hydration and healthy fats. For your dietary balance, this dish supports a lower-calorie, plant-based option packed with crunchy texture and zesty flavor.
Storage
Store leftover Buffalo Cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its crispiness and flavor. Avoid covering the cauliflower with ranch dressing or celery sticks until ready to serve to prevent sogginess. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer at 375degF for 5-7 minutes to restore its crunchy texture efficiently.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute all-purpose flour with chickpea flour for a gluten-free option that adds a slightly nutty flavor and boosts protein content. Instead of baking, try air frying the battered cauliflower at 400degF for 15 minutes to achieve extra crispiness with less oil. Swap traditional buffalo sauce for a homemade mixture of hot sauce, melted vegan butter, and a dash of smoked paprika to enhance depth and spiciness. Serving your buffalo cauliflower with a cooling blue cheese dip rather than ranch dressing offers a classic contrast that complements the spicy bite.
Allergies
Buffalo Cauliflower contains all-purpose flour, which has gluten and may cause reactions in individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The buffalo sauce and ranch dressing can contain dairy, posing a risk for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. If you have any known allergies or sensitivities, be sure to check ingredient labels carefully or consider alternative options to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
Buffalo Cauliflower at Alamo Drafthouse is popular for its perfect balance of spicy buffalo sauce and crispy, tender cauliflower that appeals to both vegans and meat-eaters. The dish offers a flavorful, healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings without sacrificing taste or texture. Creating a copycat recipe allows you to enjoy this unique menu item at home, ensuring fresh ingredients and customizable spice levels. Your homemade Buffalo Cauliflower will deliver the same satisfying bold flavor that diners love at Alamo Drafthouse.