This spicy yet savory appetizer is sure to be a new fan favorite at any event! Savory cauliflower is delicately coated with breadcrumbs and cayenne pepper, then dipped in vegan ranch dressing with a light hint of coconut, creating the perfect combination of crunch, kick, and cool. Be sure to enjoy this tasty and healthy treat at your next tailgate party or on your own!
INGREDIENTS:
For the batter:
• 2 to 3 Tbsp hot sauce
• 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 to 3/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 to 1 Tbsp cayenne/ red chili powder
• 1.5 Tbsp garlic powder
• 1.5 Tbsp onion powder
• 1.5 to 2 Tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 3 Tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot starch
• 1/3 cup flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk
• 1/4 cup water
• 3.5 to 4 cups cauliflower florets
Breadcrumb coating:
• 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1/2 tsp cayenne
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp salt
Celery Ranch Sauce:
• 1/2 cup ground cashew
• 1/2 to 3/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk
• 2 tbsp flour or 1 Tbsp arrowroot starch
• 2/3 tsp salt
• 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast can be omitted
• a very generous dash of black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder or 2 roasted garlic cloves
• 1 to 2 tsp ranch seasoning equal amounts of dried parsley, dill, thyme, garlic powder and onion powder.
• 1 to 2 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 to 1 tsp celery seeds
INSTRUCTIONS:
Make the Cauliflower bites:
1. In a bowl, mix everything except cauliflower for the batter. if the batter is too thin, add more flour or starch.
2. In another shallow bowl, mix everything under breadcrumb coating.
3. Dip cauliflower in the batter, then coat in breadcrumbs and place on parchment lined sheet.(use gloves or a fork. the batter is spicy)
4. Drizzle any remaining batter on the cauliflower. Spray oil.
5. Bake at pre-heated 425 degrees F / 220ºc for 25 minutes or until a toothpick goes through the cauliflower easily. Serve warm with dip.
Make the Celery Ranch dip:
Blend everything except celery seeds. Taste and adjust salt and flavor. Add celery seeds and blend for a few seconds. Chill and serve.
Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
30 mins
Total Time
50 mins
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