Crispy Cauliflower Nuggets from Cauliflower's feature golden-battered cauliflower florets seasoned to perfection, delivering a crunchy exterior with a tender, flavorful bite inside.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Whisk
- Baking sheet or tray
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Slotted spoon or tongs
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot (if frying)
- Paper towels (for draining)
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup plant-based milk or water
- 1–2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil (for frying or brushing if baking)
When preparing the batter for Crispy Cauliflower Nuggets, ensure the all-purpose flour and cornstarch are well combined with the baking powder and spices to achieve the perfect crispy texture. Use plant-based milk to keep the nuggets vegan-friendly, or water as a neutral alternative. Panko breadcrumbs provide the essential crunch, so adjust the amount based on how thick you want the coating. For frying, vegetable oil should be heated to the correct temperature to avoid soggy results, while brushing the nuggets with oil can help when baking. Your Crispy Cauliflower Nuggets from Cauliflower's copycat menu will have a golden-battered, crunchy exterior and a tender, flavorful bite inside.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) if baking, or heat oil in deep fryer/heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C) if frying.
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper if baking.
- Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets using knife and cutting board.
- In mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Gradually add plant-based milk or water to dry mixture, whisking to form a smooth batter.
- Place panko breadcrumbs in a separate bowl.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, coating evenly.
- Dredge battered florets in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- For baking: Arrange coated florets on prepared baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- For frying: Carefully lower coated florets into hot oil using slotted spoon or tongs. Fry in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer cooked nuggets to paper towels to drain.
- Serve hot with preferred dipping sauce.
Substitution
Crispy Cauliflower Nuggets from Cauliflower's copycat menu feature golden-battered cauliflower florets seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika that create a crunchy exterior with a tender, flavorful bite inside. You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option without compromising texture. If panko breadcrumbs are unavailable, crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs work well as alternatives. For a lighter cooking method, brush the nuggets with oil and bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet instead of deep frying. Using plant-based milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk in the batter provides flexibility for dairy-free or vegan diets.
Tips
Make sure the oil reaches the proper temperature of 350degF (175degC) before frying to ensure your cauliflower nuggets cook evenly and become crispy without absorbing excess oil. When making the batter, whisk thoroughly to avoid lumps, creating a smooth coating that sticks well to each floret. Press the panko breadcrumbs firmly onto the battered cauliflower to achieve a crunchy exterior during baking or frying. You can save time by cutting the cauliflower into uniform bite-sized pieces, which allows for consistent cooking and better texture in your nuggets.
Nutritions
Crispy Cauliflower Nuggets provide a nutritious alternative to traditional fried snacks, offering a low-calorie, fiber-rich option from cauliflower florets. The golden-battered coating made from all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and panko breadcrumbs adds texture but contributes to carbohydrates and fat, especially when fried in vegetable oil. Using plant-based milk in the batter keeps the recipe dairy-free, while spices like garlic and paprika add flavor without extra calories. You can control fat content by opting to bake the nuggets rather than fry, supporting a healthier preparation method.
Storage
Store crispy cauliflower nuggets in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture, keeping them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375degF (190degC) for 10-15 minutes to maintain their crunchy texture and avoid sogginess. Your best option is to avoid microwaving, as it can soften the crispy coating quickly.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute almond flour or chickpea flour for all-purpose flour to make the batter gluten-free, while using nutritional yeast enhances the savory flavor. For a spicier twist, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix. Instead of panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes or crushed tortilla chips provide an extra crunchy texture. When baking, try placing the nuggets under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end to achieve an even crispier finish.
Allergies
Crispy Cauliflower Nuggets contain wheat-based all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs, which may trigger gluten allergies or sensitivities. The recipe also includes cornstarch and various spices like garlic and onion powder that could cause reactions in individuals with specific food intolerances. If you have allergies, it's important to check each ingredient carefully to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
Crispy Cauliflower Nuggets from Cauliflower's restaurant are beloved for their perfect balance of crunch and tender interior, delivering a satisfying texture in every bite. The menu item features a flavorful blend of herbs and spices that elevate the natural taste of cauliflower, making it a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. You will appreciate the versatility of this dish, which pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces, enhancing your dining experience. Trying the copycat recipe allows you to recreate the crispiness and bold flavors at home while customizing ingredients to suit your dietary preferences.