Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with Ranch

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Steps

1. 1 In a large bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. 2 Toss cauliflower florets in the seasoned flour until evenly coated.
3. 3 Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry cauliflower in batches until golden brown, about 5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
4. 4 In a separate bowl, whisk together buffalo sauce and melted butter. Toss hot cauliflower bites in the sauce.
5. 5 For the ranch dressing, combine mayonnaise, buttermilk, parsley, chives, relish, and garlic in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
6. 6 Serve buffalo cauliflower bites warm with ranch dressing on the side.

Equipment

• Deep fryer or large skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Variations

• Bake instead of fry at 425°F for 20-25 minutes for a healthier option.
• Use Frank's RedHot sauce for an authentic buffalo flavor.

Substitutions

• Substitute buttermilk with 1/2 cup mayonnaise and 1/2 cup milk for the ranch.
• Use almond flour for a gluten-free coating option.

Pairings

• Serve alongside loaded nachos or a charcuterie board.
• Pair with a light green salad for a balanced appetizer platter.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra crispiness, freeze the coated cauliflower florets for 30 minutes before frying.
• Adjust cayenne pepper to your spice preference.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with celery sticks for a classic buffalo wing experience.
• Pair with a cold beer or lemonade for a refreshing contrast.

FAQ