What would Super Bowl season be like without buffalo wings? Even if you’re like me and staying home like you’ve done pretty much every.night.since.March, you’re gonna need these totally plant-based Buffalo Cauliflower Poppers.
You guys… what can’t cauliflower do? It’s been pizza. It’s been rice. I’ve even made it into mashed “potatoes.”
But honestly, this might be my favorite way to make cauliflower yet. I present to you: plant-based Buffalo Cauliflower Poppers.
I love a lot about these lil poppers. For starters, they’re not like a cauliflower pizza or rice that tries to replace the grain versions (because the grain versions are awesome). Instead, they’re simply a plant-based version of buffalo wings that taste pretty similar to the real thing.
As always, Jordan is my gauge for how good any recipe is. He’s usually not into plant-based substitutions, and even he was pleasantly surprised by these!
Dip them in your favorite sauce or eat them plain. These are perfect for a crowd, easy to make and super delicious.
Notes
- Almond milk: Any plant-based milk will work here, just make sure it’s plain/unflavored. Vanilla flavored Buffalo Cauliflower Poppers definitely do not sound good!
- Flour: To up the fiber content, whole wheat flour will also work. To make these gluten free, try almond flour or oat flour.
- MSG: One of my favorite secret ingredients to cook with, MSG, is a perfectly safe and easy way to elevate the umami flavor of any savory dish (especially plant-based dishes) without adding excess salt. Curious about the safety of MSG or wondering what it is exactly? I’ve written a lot about it! Check out this blog post explaining all about MSG or read more about it in this Baked Zucchini Fries recipe.
- Buffalo sauce: Any store-bought brand will do! I used Frank’s.
- Honey: Maple syrup will also work here. This is crucial to add so you get that hint of sweetness amidst the spicy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 3/4 cup all purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon MSG
- 4 cups cauliflower roughly chopped (about 1 medium head)
- 1 cup Buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease well.
- In a large bowl, combine almond milk, flour, spices and MSG. The mixture should be thick.
- Add chopped cauliflower to the bowl and mix until florets are evenly coated.
- Place coated cauliflower on baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- While cauliflower is in the oven, mix Buffalo sauce and honey in a large bowl.
- Remove cauliflower from oven and add to the bowl with Buffalo sauce. Gently mix until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Place on baking sheet and return to the oven for another 10 minutes.
- Serve immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes or until crisp.
