If you crave the zest and zing of buffalo wings but want to stick to a plant-based diet, Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings are the perfect appetizer for you! These wings offer the spicy, tangy flavor and crispy texture we all love, without any of the meat. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make. Here’s how you can prepare these delightful vegan appetizers at home, using simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
To make these mouth-watering vegan wings, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 head of cauliflower
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour (you can substitute with gluten-free flour)
- 1 cup of water (adjust as needed to get the right batter consistency)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1 cup of your favorite buffalo or hot sauce
- 2 tbsp vegan butter
- 1 tbsp of olive oil or vegetable oil
- Optional: vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
Equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or a silicone baking mat
- Large mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
Preparation Steps:
1. Preheat & Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high temperature is key for getting that crispy exterior. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to ensure the wings don’t stick and to make cleanup a breeze.
2. Cut the Cauliflower
Remove the leaves from your cauliflower and cut it into bite-sized pieces, resembling the size of traditional wings. Try to keep them relatively the same size for even cooking.
3. Make the Batter
In your large mixing bowl, combine the flour, water, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until you have a smooth batter. It should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower pieces without dripping off too much.
4. Coat the Cauliflower
Dip each piece of cauliflower into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess batter drip off before placing it on the baking sheet. Spread the pieces out so they’re not touching, allowing air to circulate around each piece for optimal crispiness.
5. Bake
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the batter firms up and starts to turn golden brown. This initial bake is crucial for setting the batter so it doesn’t fall off during the saucing and second bake.
6. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce
While the cauliflower is baking, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the vegan butter and then whisk in the hot sauce until combined. You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce to taste.
7. Coat with Sauce
Once the cauliflower is baked, gently toss the pieces in the buffalo sauce, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Then, return the pieces to the baking sheet. You can drizzle any leftover sauce over the top for extra flavor.
8. Final Bake
Put the coated cauliflower back in the oven for another 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, turn each piece to ensure even baking. They’re done when they’re crispy and a deeper golden brown.
Serving:
Serve these Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings hot, alongside your choice of vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing. They’re perfect as an appetizer for game day, a potluck, or just a tasty snack. For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped scallions or parsley on top.
Tips for Perfect Wings Every Time:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: This will allow the cauliflower to crisp up properly.
- Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste: More or less hot sauce can drastically change the heat level, so customize it to your preference.
- Try Different Sauces: Not a fan of buffalo sauce? Try barbecue, teriyaki, or even a sweet chili sauce for variety.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Simply use your favorite gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Cauliflower Buffalo Wings are not just for vegans; they’re a healthier alternative that everyone can enjoy. They capture the essence of traditional buffalo wings without the meat, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. With this simple recipe, you can whip up a batch of these delicious appetizers in no time. Happy cooking!
