Cauliflower Buffalo Bites (Print Version)

Golden cauliflower bites in zesty buffalo sauce, baked crispy and served with cool dressings.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 large head cauliflower, cut into large florets
02 - 1/2 cup aquafaba (liquid from canned chickpeas)
03 - 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
04 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch

→ Buffalo Sauce

05 - 3/4 cup hot sauce, such as Frank’s Red Hot
06 - 2 tablespoons melted butter or dairy-free butter
07 - 2 teaspoons lemon juice or distilled white vinegar
08 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika

→ To Serve

10 - Ranch or blue cheese dressing, or dairy-free alternative
11 - Carrot sticks
12 - Celery sticks

# Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and position the rack on the lowest shelf.
02 - Trim cauliflower into large florets, removing most coarse stems.
03 - Place cauliflower florets in a large bowl and add aquafaba, tossing to coat all surfaces.
04 - Combine breadcrumbs and cornstarch in a small bowl. Sprinkle over coated cauliflower and toss until evenly covered.
05 - Arrange coated florets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring once midway, until lightly golden.
06 - In a separate bowl, whisk hot sauce, melted butter, lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth.
07 - Increase oven temperature to 450°F (230°C). Remove cauliflower, then lightly brush each floret with buffalo sauce to keep the coating crisp.
08 - Return to oven and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes or until deeply browned and crisp at the edges.
09 - Serve warm with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing and carrot and celery sticks.

# Notes:

01 - For extra crunch, opt for panko-style breadcrumbs. Adjust hot sauce quantity to taste for desired spice level.