Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)

If you’re looking for a vibrant dish to spice up your dinner table, let me introduce you to Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang). This recipe has become a beloved staple in my kitchen because it’s not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare! Whether you’re hosting family and friends or simply treating yourself on a busy weeknight, this dish is sure to impress.

The combination of tender cauliflower coated in a sticky, spicy gochujang sauce makes every bite unforgettable. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it without compromise. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The crispy texture and bold flavors will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this dish fits right in.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the batter ahead of time for an even quicker cooking process later.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and sauces creates an explosion of taste that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! They come together to create a delightful blend of textures and tastes that truly makes this dish shine.

For the Cauliflower

• 2 medium heads cauliflower, cut into florets (about 650g)
• 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
• ¼ cup mirin

For Finishing Touches

• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• Toasted sesame oil (or vegetable oil) for spraying
• ¼ cup chopped green onion
• 1 tbsp toasted white sesame seeds
• 1 lime

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make adjustments based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some broccoli or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: If you love heat, add more Korean chili paste or some sliced fresh chilies.
• Switch Up the Sauce: Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or sweet chili for a unique twist.
• Make it Crunchy: Add some crushed peanuts or cashews on top for an added crunch!

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Start by preheating the air fryer to 400°F. If you’re opting to bake instead, set your oven to 425°F. This step is crucial as it ensures your cauliflower gets that perfect crispy exterior!

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line your air fryer pan with parchment paper. If baking, place a cooling rack on a baking sheet and then put parchment on top. This helps the hot air circulate around the cauliflower while cooking, ensuring even crispiness.

Step 3: Cut the Cauliflower

Cut the cauliflower into small florets. Smaller pieces cook faster and get nicely crisped up. Plus, they soak up all that amazing sauce!

Step 4: Make the Batter

In a large bowl, mix together all your dry ingredients for the tempura batter. Then slowly stir in the extra cold seltzer water until just combined. The goal is a thick pancake batter consistency—if it’s too runny, add more flour gradually.

Step 5: Coat the Cauliflower

Coat each floret evenly in the tempura batter. It’s important not to overcrowd your air fryer basket; make sure they are in a single layer so they crisp up beautifully. You might need to work in batches depending on your equipment size!

Step 6: Cook Until Crispy

Spray or brush your cauliflower lightly with oil before cooking. Air fry them for about 17 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even cook. If baking, aim for about 20-22 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy!

Now you have delicious Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower ready to enjoy! Serve with lime wedges and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for that extra touch. Enjoy every spicy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)

Don’t worry if you’re a little new to cooking; with these handy tips, your Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower will turn out deliciously every time!

• Use cold seltzer water: Starting with extra cold seltzer water helps create a light and crispy batter. The carbonation adds airiness that gives the cauliflower a delightful crunch.

• Avoid overcrowding the basket: For perfectly cooked cauliflower, make sure to arrange the pieces in a single layer. Overcrowding can steam them instead of crisping them up, leading to a less satisfying texture.

• Adjust spice levels to taste: If you’re sensitive to heat, feel free to reduce the amount of Korean chili paste or sauce you use. You can always add more later if you want extra kick!

• Experiment with dipping sauces: Enhance your dish by serving it with various dipping sauces like a creamy vegan ranch or a tangy soy-vinegar blend for added flavor dimensions.

• Store leftovers properly: To maintain the crispy texture, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. When reheating, pop them back into the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crunchiness.

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

Serving this dish is just as fun as making it! The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will surely impress your guests and elevate any meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions not only adds color but also imparts a mild onion flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
• Toasted sesame seeds: These add an enjoyable crunch and nutty aroma that works wonders with the gochujang sauce.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up all those robust flavors and makes each bite refreshing!

Side Dishes

• Steamed rice: A classic pairing that balances out the spiciness of the chili cauliflower. White or brown rice soaks up all that delicious sauce!
• Kimchi: This fermented side dish adds a tangy crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the crispy cauliflower while enhancing its Korean flair.
• Cucumber salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar provide a refreshing side that cools down your palate after enjoying the spicy cauliflower.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs excellently with the heat of the gochujang, creating a comforting and filling meal.

Now you’re all set for an exciting culinary adventure! Enjoy your flavorful Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower—you’ll be glad you did!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it throughout. Here’s how to store and preserve its delightful flavors.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cauliflower to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Let the cooked cauliflower cool down before freezing.
• Spread the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to remove as much air as possible.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until crispy again.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 375°F until heated through (approximately 10-15 minutes).
• Microwave reheating is possible but may result in softer texture—heat for about 1-2 minutes on medium power.

FAQs

You might have some questions about this delicious recipe. Let’s address a few!

Can I use other vegetables instead of cauliflower for Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)?

Absolutely! You can substitute cauliflower with broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or even zucchini. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on the vegetable’s density.

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

The spiciness depends on your tolerance and the type of gochujang you use. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less gochujang, and feel free to adjust according to your preference.

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

Yes! This recipe already includes gluten-free flour options. Just ensure that all sauces used are certified gluten-free as well.

How can I enhance the flavor of Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)?

Consider adding more spices or toppings such as fresh herbs, extra lime juice, or sesame seeds after cooking for an additional flavor boost!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower! It’s such a special recipe that combines crispy textures with bold flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a fun side, it’s bound to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—I’d love to hear how yours turns out!