Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)

This Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang) is a delightful dish that brings bold flavors and a satisfying crunch to your table. Perfect for gatherings, as a side, or even as a snack, this recipe appeals to anyone seeking a tasty, vegan-friendly option. The tender cauliflower is coated in a sticky, spicy sauce that makes it irresistibly good!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip this up quickly.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of gochujang and fresh garlic creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or side dish. It fits any occasion!
• Crispy Texture: Air frying gives the cauliflower a wonderfully crispy exterior without deep-frying.
• Plant-Based Goodness: Enjoy a delicious meal that is entirely vegan and gluten-free.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower requires just a few essential tools to ensure the process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet (if baking)
• Cooling rack (if baking)

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool is crucial for achieving that crispy texture without excess oil.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows for easy ingredient mixing and preparation.
• Whisk: A whisk helps blend the batter smoothly, ensuring even coating on the cauliflower.

Ingredients

This Korean Chili Cauliflower is tender, crispy, and coated in a sticky, spicy gochujang sauce. Baked or air-fried, it’s a flavorful vegan-friendly dish you’ll love!

• 2 medium heads cauliflower (cut into florets (about 650g))
• 1 ½ cups gluten-free flour blend (or brown rice flour)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 ¾ cups seltzer water (extra cold)
• ½ cup maple syrup (or agave nectar, reduce to ¼ cup if sensitive to sweetness)
• 6 tbsp soy sauce (use low-sodium if sensitive to salt)
• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• 3 tbsp minced garlic (2-3 cloves)
• 2 tbsp minced fresh ginger
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 5 tbsp Korean Chili Paste or sauce
• ¼ cup mirin
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• toasted sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
• ¼ cup chopped green onion
• 1 tbsp toasted white sesame seeds
• 1 lime

How to Make Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. If you prefer baking, set your oven to 425°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Cooking Surface

Line the air fryer pan with parchment paper. If baking, place a cooling rack on the baking sheet and add parchment on top. This helps achieve a crispier exterior during cooking.

Step 3: Cut the Cauliflower

Cut the cauliflower into small florets for even cooking.

Step 4: Make the Tempura Batter

In a large bowl:
1. Combine all dry ingredients for the tempura batter.
2. Gradually stir in the cold seltzer water until just mixed. The mixture should resemble very thick pancake batter. Adjust thickness by adding more gluten-free flour if needed.

Step 5: Coat the Cauliflower

Coat each cauliflower floret evenly in the tempura batter:
1. Arrange them in your air fryer basket or on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Ensure they are in a single layer without overcrowding.

Step 6: Cook the Cauliflower

Spray with cooking spray or brush with about 1–2 tbsp of oil:
1. Air fry for about 17 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. Bake for 20–22 minutes, also flipping halfway for even cooking.

Enjoy your crispy Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower as an amazing addition to any meal!

How to Serve Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)

Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a snack, appetizer, or main course, this crispy delight pairs well with many sides and garnishes for an unforgettable meal experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve warm with a side of soy sauce or sweet chili sauce for dipping.
• Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.

In Tacos

• Fill corn tortillas with spicy cauliflower, avocado, and fresh lime juice for a delicious fusion taco.
• Add shredded cabbage for extra texture and nutrition.

Over Rice

• Serve over steamed rice or quinoa to create a hearty meal.
• Drizzle with additional gochujang sauce for more spice.

In Salad Bowls

• Toss the cauliflower with mixed greens, cucumbers, and carrots for a refreshing salad.
• Top with sesame dressing to complement the flavors.

As a Snack

• Enjoy as a crispy snack on its own, perfect for movie nights or gatherings.
• Pair with your favorite plant-based ranch or hummus for dipping.

How to Perfect Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)

To achieve the best results with your Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower, keep these tips in mind. They will help you create the perfect texture and flavor every time.

• Choose Fresh Cauliflower: Select firm, vibrant florets without brown spots for optimal taste and texture. Fresh cauliflower will yield better results than older specimens.

• Use Cold Seltzer Water: The cold temperature helps create a light and crispy batter. Make sure your seltzer water is extra cold before mixing it into the batter.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Place cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness. Consider cooking in batches if necessary.

• Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of gochujang based on your heat preference. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice and add more as desired.

• Flip Halfway Through Cooking: For even crispiness, flip the cauliflower halfway through air frying or baking. This ensures all sides get that golden-brown color.

Best Side Dishes for Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)

Pairing side dishes with your Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some delicious options that complement its bold flavors.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds nutrition and balances the spicy flavors of the cauliflower. Season lightly with salt and lemon juice.

2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad of sliced cucumbers tossed in vinegar and sesame oil provides a cool contrast to the heat of the dish.

3. Brown Rice: Nutty brown rice serves as a great base for soaking up any extra sauce from the cauliflower while adding fiber to your meal.

4. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf made with herbs and spices is nutritious and pairs well with Asian flavors, enhancing your overall dish.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness that complements spiciness perfectly; roast them until caramelized for added flavor.

6. Kimchi: This fermented vegetable dish adds tanginess and depth; serve alongside as a palate cleanser to balance out rich flavors.

7. Miso Soup: Light miso soup serves as a warming contrast to the crispy cauliflower; it’s comforting and easy to prepare alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang), it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the consistency of the batter: If your tempura batter is too thin, the coating won’t stick well to the cauliflower. Ensure it has a thick but pourable consistency.

• Overcrowding the air fryer or baking sheet: Placing too many florets at once will lead to uneven cooking. Always arrange them in a single layer for optimal crispiness.

• Not preheating your air fryer or oven: Skipping this step can result in soggy cauliflower. Always preheat your appliance to ensure even cooking from the start.

• Skipping the oil spray: Not spraying or brushing oil on the battered cauliflower can lead to a dry texture. A light coat of oil helps achieve that crispy finish.

• Neglecting to flip during cooking: Failing to turn the cauliflower halfway through can cause one side to brown while the other remains pale. Make sure to flip for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)

• Place cooled cauliflower in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Place cauliflower on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes; note that it may lose crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Add cauliflower, stirring occasionally until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang).

Can I use frozen cauliflower florets?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before coating with batter.

What if I can’t find gochujang sauce?

You can create a similar flavor using chili paste mixed with soy sauce and a bit of sugar as a substitute.

How spicy is Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)?

The spice level depends on how much gochujang you use. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat, then adjust according to your preference.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free flour blend as specified in the recipe, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang) is not only delicious but also versatile and customizable. You can adjust the spice level or add vegetables for variety. This dish makes an excellent main course or side, perfect for any meal!