Get ready to transform the humble cauliflower into a mouthwatering sensation that will have everyone begging for seconds! This Sweet Spicy Air Fryer Cauliflower recipe is not just another vegetable dish – it's a flavor explosion that combines the perfect balance of honey's sweetness and chili's bold kick. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality side dish that's crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with incredible flavor that will make you forget you're even eating a vegetable!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Fusion
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes while you prepare the cauliflower.
- Take the head of cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and form a marinade.
- Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the florets gently until they are evenly coated with the mixture. Ensure each piece is well covered for maximum flavor.
- Once the air fryer is preheated, place the coated cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Cook the cauliflower in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning and crispiness.
- After cooking, check for doneness. The cauliflower should be golden brown and tender. If you prefer it crispier, you can air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Once done, remove the cauliflower from the air fryer and let it cool for a minute. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt if desired.
- Serve the sweet spicy air fryer cauliflower warm as a side dish or a snack. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of extra honey if desired.
Tips
- Size Matters: Cut your cauliflower florets into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking and consistent crispiness.
- Don't Overcrowd: Work in batches if needed. Giving the florets space in the air fryer basket is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior.
- Shake It Up: Halfway through cooking, shake the basket to promote even browning and prevent any pieces from sticking.
- Customize Your Spice: Feel free to adjust the chili powder to match your heat tolerance. Add more for extra kick or less for a milder version.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh cauliflower for the most crisp and flavorful results. Frozen cauliflower can work but may release more moisture.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra flavor boost, try garnishing with fresh chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 115kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
