Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)

This Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang) is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a casual weeknight dinner, or simply craving something flavorful, this recipe delivers. The cauliflower is tender and crispy, enveloped in a sticky and spicy gochujang sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how versatile it can be as an appetizer or main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of gochujang, garlic, and ginger helps create an irresistible flavor profile that will satisfy your cravings.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy without compromising on taste.
• Crispy Texture: Air-frying achieves that perfect crispiness without deep frying, ensuring a healthier option.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as a main dish or as a side; it pairs well with rice, salads, or even as a snack.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang), you’ll need some essential tools to ensure the cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: Provides a quick cooking method that results in crispy food with less oil.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients effectively for the batter and sauces.
• Whisk: Helps achieve the right consistency for the tempura batter by mixing dry ingredients with liquid evenly.

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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!

For the Cauliflower

• 2 medium heads cauliflower (cut into florets about 650g)

For the Tempura Batter

• 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)

For the Sauce

• 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

For Garnish

• 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 baking, set your oven to 425°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line the air fryer pan with parchment paper. If baking, place a cooling rack on a baking sheet and put parchment onto the cooling rack. This ensures that your cauliflower achieves a crispy exterior while baking.

Step 3: Cut the Cauliflower

Cut the cauliflower into small florets to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Make the Tempura Batter

In a large bowl:
1. Combine the dry ingredients for the tempura batter.
2. Stir in the cold seltzer water until just combined. The mixture should resemble very thick pancake batter. If too thin, add gluten-free flour one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 5: Coat the Cauliflower

Coat each cauliflower floret evenly in tempura batter:
– Place them on your prepared rack or in your air fryer basket.
– Ensure they are in a single layer and do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary.

Step 6: Cook

Spray or brush the cauliflower with cooking spray or oil:
– Air fry for about 17 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
– If baking, cook for approximately 20-22 minutes, also flipping halfway through.

Enjoy your Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang) hot!

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

Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate the flavor and presentation of this delightful dish.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the crispy cauliflower bites with a side of soy sauce or sesame dipping sauce for an exciting starter.

In Tacos

• Use small corn or flour tortillas to create tasty tacos filled with air-fried cauliflower, topped with fresh avocado and cilantro.

Over Rice

• Place the gochujang cauliflower over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa for a hearty main course. Drizzle extra sauce on top for added flavor.

With Salad

• Pair the crispy cauliflower with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad that balances the rich flavors.

On Skewers

• Thread pieces of air-fried cauliflower onto skewers, adding cherry tomatoes and bell peppers for colorful and fun finger food.

Garnished with Green Onions and Sesame Seeds

• Finish your dish by sprinkling chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top for added crunch and visual appeal.

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

To ensure your Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower turns out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use cold seltzer water: The cold temperature helps create a light, airy batter that crisps up beautifully when cooked.

• Don’t overcrowd the basket: For even cooking, arrange the cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer. Cook in batches if necessary.

• Adjust spice levels: For milder heat, use less gochujang or mix it with more maple syrup. Taste as you go!

• Flip halfway through cooking: This helps achieve an evenly crispy exterior on all sides of the cauliflower florets.

• Experiment with dipping sauces: Try different sauces like spicy mayo or tahini to complement the flavors of the dish.

• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftover cauliflower in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.

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

Pairing sides with Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower enhances your meal’s overall taste and variety. Here are some delicious options that complement its bold flavors perfectly.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch that balances the spiciness of gochujang.

2. Coconut Rice: This fragrant rice made with coconut milk brings a subtle sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes.

3. Kimchi: The fermented flavors of kimchi add complexity and tanginess, making it an excellent companion to this dish.

4. Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with sliced cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar adds brightness to your plate.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with spicy flavors while providing a hearty addition to your meal.

6. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and spices serves as a healthy base that complements the crispy cauliflower.

7. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers umami depth and comfort alongside your vibrant main dish.

8. Pickled Radishes: These tangy bites cleanse your palate between bites and add an extra layer of flavor to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang) turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the coating step: Failing to coat the cauliflower thoroughly can lead to uneven cooking and flavor. Make sure each floret is well-covered in the tempura batter.
• Overcrowding the air fryer: Placing too many cauliflower pieces in the air fryer at once can result in steaming instead of crisping. Cook in batches for optimal results.
• Not preheating the air fryer: Skipping this step can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your air fryer to achieve a crispy texture.
• Using warm water for batter: Warm seltzer water will not create that desired light and crispy batter. Ensure your seltzer is extra cold before mixing it in.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: The spice level can vary based on personal preference. Taste the batter and adjust the seasoning before coating your cauliflower for the best flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)

• Place cooled cauliflower in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, but note this may lose some crispiness.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gochujang?

Gochujang is a fermented Korean chili paste made from red chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. It adds a unique spicy-sweet flavor to dishes.

Can I make Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang) gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free flour and low-sodium soy sauce to keep this dish gluten-free without sacrificing taste.

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

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference by varying the amount of gochujang used. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat.

What can I serve with Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, salad, or as an appetizer alongside dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce or soy sauce.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower florets! Just thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating and air frying.

Final Thoughts

Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang) is a deliciously crispy dish that packs bold flavors. Whether as a main course or snack, its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adjusting spice levels or adding other vegetables to suit your taste!