Crispy Cauliflower “Wings” – A must try for lunch or dinner!!
Looking for a healthy, fun, and easy recipe to get your kids involved in the kitchen? These Crispy Cauliflower “Wings” are just the ticket! Packed with flavour, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside, these cauliflower wings are a nutritious twist on the classic chicken wing – and they’re perfect for little hands. Coated in a smoky, spiced batter and crispy panko breadcrumbs, they’re sure to become a hit in your home!
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 40 minutes mins
Course Lunch, Main Course, Side Dish, Snack
For the Cauliflower Wings:
- 1 head of cauliflower (cut into small florets)
For the Batter:
- 35 g plain flour (about 4 tablespoons)
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 120 ml milk of your choice (dairy or plant-based)
For the Breadcrumb Mix:
- 80 g panko breadcrumbs (about 10 tablespoon) Use GF breadcrumbs if needed
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- A good pinch of salt and pepper
To Cook:
- Cooking oil (for drizzling)
For the Cucumber Dip (Optional, but delicious!):
- 200 g plain or Greek yoghurt
- ¼ cucumber, grated
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 garlic clove, finely grated or chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the TrayPreheat your oven to 180ºC (fan) or 200ºC (conventional)or 350℉. Line a large baking tray with parchment paper to ensure your cauliflower wings bake evenly and don't stick to the tray. Cut the Cauliflower into FloretsCut the cauliflower into small bite-sized florets. Make sure the florets are roughly the same size so they cook evenly. Don’t throw away the outer leaves – they can be used in soups or stews, so make sure to save them for later! Make the BatterIn a mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, smoked paprika, and turmeric powder. Gradually add in the milk (of your choice) and whisk until you have a smooth batter. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower without dripping off, but not too thick that it becomes clumpy. Adjust the consistency with a little more milk if needed. Make the Breadcrumb MixIn a separate bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The breadcrumbs will give the cauliflower wings their crisp, golden exterior, so make sure to mix it thoroughly. Coat the Cauliflower FloretsNow comes the fun part! Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, coating it fully, and then roll it in the breadcrumb mix until well-coated. Be sure to press gently so the breadcrumbs stick well. Place each coated cauliflower floret on the lined baking tray. Repeat until all the cauliflower is coated. Drizzle with Oil and BakeOnce all the florets are on the tray, drizzle them lightly with cooking oil (this helps them become crispy while baking). Pop them in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, turning them halfway through, so they get evenly crispy on all sides. The cauliflower is done when it’s golden brown and crunchy on the outside. Prepare the Cucumber Dip (Optional)While the cauliflower is baking, prepare the cucumber dip to serve alongside. In a bowl, combine plain or Greek yoghurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, and garlic. Stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This fresh, creamy dip pairs perfectly with the smoky cauliflower wings and adds a refreshing contrast to the crispy texture. Serve and EnjoyOnce your cauliflower wings are perfectly crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve with your homemade cucumber dip, or if you prefer, a side of spicy mayo or ketchup. These crispy cauliflower wings make a great snack or side dish, and they’re a fun way to get kids to eat more veggies!
Keyword Cauliflower, Dinner, Vegan, Vegetarian