Crispy Chili Crunch Cauliflower (Printable)
Golden florets in spicy chili crunch served with zesty avocado lime dip.
# List of ingredients:
→ Crispy Cauliflower
01 - 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
02 - 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1/2 cup plant-based milk
04 - 1/2 cup water
05 - 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
06 - 1/2 cup chili crunch
07 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
08 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
09 - 1/2 tsp sea salt
10 - Cooking spray or 2 tbsp neutral oil
→ Avocado Lime Dip
11 - 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
12 - 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
13 - 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
14 - 1 tbsp olive oil
15 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
16 - 1/4 tsp cumin
17 - Salt and pepper, to taste
18 - 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
# Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease the paper with cooking spray or oil.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together flour, plant-based milk, water, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and sea salt until smooth.
03 - Add cauliflower florets to the batter, tossing to coat evenly.
04 - Place panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Dredge each floret in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
05 - Arrange coated florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Spray the tops with additional oil or cooking spray.
06 - Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
07 - Remove from oven and immediately toss hot cauliflower with chili crunch in a large bowl until evenly coated.
08 - Meanwhile, combine avocado, yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Blend until smooth and stir in cilantro.
09 - Serve crispy cauliflower hot with avocado lime dip on the side.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The panko coating creates a shell that stays shatteringly crisp even after the chili sauce is applied.
- The lime cuts through the rich oils and spices perfectly, balancing every single bite.
02 -
- Crowding the baking sheet will steam the cauliflower instead of baking it crisp.
- Adding the chili sauce while the cauliflower is piping hot ensures the best adhesion.
03 -
- Dredge the florets in one hand and keep the other hand dry to avoid breading your fingers.
- Toast the panko lightly in a dry pan before using for extra crunch.