Can I skip the bourbon in this air-fried cauliflower recipe?

Yes, you can skip the bourbon without compromising the overall flavor. The bourbon in the recipe helps tenderize the cauliflower and adds a subtle depth of flavor, but it’s not essential. If you prefer to leave it out, just proceed with the recipe as directed—your air-fried cauliflower will still turn out deliciously crispy and flavorful.

Why do I need to chill the cauliflower after battering?

Chilling the cauliflower after battering allows the coating to set and adhere better during frying. This step helps prevent the batter from sliding off or becoming uneven, resulting in a crispier, more uniform coating. It also gives the cauliflower time to absorb some of the flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

How can I adjust the heat level in this air-fried buffalo cauliflower recipe?

You can easily control the heat level by choosing the right hot sauce. For a milder kick, go with something like Frank’s RedHot, or for more spice, try using Cholula or adding a dash of sriracha. You can also adjust the balance by mixing in a bit more vegan butter to mellow out the heat to your liking.

Crispy Air-Fried Buffalo Cauliflower Steaks

Description

These air-fried buffalo cauliflower steaks are crispy, spicy, and full of flavor—no deep fryer needed. Perfect for stacking on a bun or serving as a hearty main dish. Whether you’re a buffalo sauce fan or just love a good crunch, this recipe delivers!

Ingredients

for the cauliflower

one large head of cauliflower
salt and pepper

for the dry ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon paprika
2 teaspoons cayenne (optional)

for the wet ingredients

1 cup soymilk, whisked with 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup JUST Egg
2 tablespoon bourbon
1 tablespoon hot sauce

for frying and coating

spray oil
at least one cup of prepared buffalo sauce. (You can also make your own by mixing a 1:1 ratio of melted vegan butter with a vinegar-based hot sauce)

to serve

toasted hamburger buns
cabbage or lettuce
pickles
red onion
tomato and/or avocado
vegan bleu cheese dressing
extra buffalo sauce
celery

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Instructions

to prep the cauliflower

To cut your cauliflower steaks, place a head of cauliflower stem side down on a cutting board. Using a large knife, slice it down the very middle. Then cut down again on each half to create 3 or 4, 1-inch thick slabs. Chop up the leftover portion of the cauliflower into little, bite-sized florets.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Place the cauliflower into the pot, let the boil return, wait about a minute, then transfer the florets to a cookie sheet with a wire rack to cool.
Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Leave out for 30 minutes, or throw into your refrigerator to cool.

to make the breading

Combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic and onion powders, salt, paprika, and cayenne in a medium-sized bowl.
Whisk the soymilk with the apple cider vinegar, JUST Egg, bourbon, and hot sauce in a separate medium-sized bowl.
Working one piece at a time, coat the steaks and florets evenly in the dry mixture, tapping off any extra and placing it back onto the wire rack.
Pour 3 tablespoons of the wet mixture into the dry mixture and combine with a rubber spatula.
Working one piece at a time, dunk the steaks and florets into the wet mixture, then pack the moistened flour mixture firmly around it.
Return the battered cauliflower back onto the wire rack and place into the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes.

to air fry the cauliflower

Spray the cauliflower steaks evenly with cooking spray.
Place into the air fryer at 400 degrees and cook for 10 minutes, flipping the slabs over halfway through the cooking time. Apply a little more spray over any areas that look dry and cook for an additional minute or two if needed to achieve a deeply golden color all over.
Place the buffalo sauce into a bowl, then carefully turn the steaks around in the bowl to coat.
Place back into the air fryer and fry on each side for 3-4 minutes, or until the edges look crispy.
Repeat the process with the florets. Air fry time will take less with the florets since they are smaller. Just give them a shake halfway through the cooking time, and spray any areas with cooking spray that look dry.
Serve immediately on toasted hamburger buns or with celery and vegan bleu cheese dressing.

Notes

Storage: Store any leftover cauliflower steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them cool completely before storing to maintain their texture.
Reheating: To re-crisp, pop the steaks back into the air fryer at 400°F for 5-7 minutes per side, and 6-8 minutes for florets. Give them a shake halfway through to ensure even cooking and crisping.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the cauliflower steaks up to the chilling step, then cover and refrigerate them overnight. This makes it easy to air fry them fresh the next day.
Cooling Tip: After air frying, let the cauliflower steaks rest on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. This allows any excess steam to escape, keeping the coating crispy.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Lunch, Dinner
Method: Battered, Air-Fried
Cuisine: American