Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)

Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang) is a delightful dish that perfectly balances tender and crispy textures with a sticky, spicy sauce. This air-fried version is not only healthier but also retains all the flavorful essence of traditional Korean cuisine. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and versatility.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of gochujang and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering taste that will keep you coming back for more.
• Healthier Cooking Method: Air frying offers a guilt-free way to enjoy crispy cauliflower without the excess oil found in traditional frying.
• Vegan-Friendly: This dish is completely plant-based, making it suitable for everyone, including those following a vegan lifestyle.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and easily accessible ingredients, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course; it fits perfectly into any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower, you’ll need some essential tools to help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer or oven
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheet or cooling rack
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Air Fryer: Provides a healthier way to cook by using hot air to achieve that crispy texture without the excess oil.
• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently and helps keep your workspace organized.
• Whisk: Helps blend the tempura batter smoothly for an even coating on the cauliflower.
• Baking Sheet/Cooling Rack: Allows for even cooking by promoting airflow around the cauliflower.

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Ingredients

This Korean Chili Cauliflower is tender, crispy, and coated in a sticky, spicy gochujang sauce. Baked or air-fried, it’s a flavorful vegan-friendly dish you’ll love!

Ingredients:
– 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)
– 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
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– toasted sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
– ¼ cup chopped green onion
– 1 tbsp toasted white sesame seeds
– 1 lime

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

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F or your oven to 425°F if you prefer baking.

Step 2: Prepare Your Cooking Surface

Line the air fryer pan with parchment paper. If baking, place a cooling rack on the baking sheet. This setup helps achieve a crispier exterior during cooking.

Step 3: Cut the Cauliflower

Cut the cauliflower into small florets ensuring they are similar in size for even cooking.

Step 4: Make the Tempura Batter

In a large bowl:
1. Combine all dry ingredients—gluten-free flour blend, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Gradually stir in the cold seltzer water until just combined. The mixture should resemble thick pancake batter. Adjust with additional flour if too thin.

Step 5: Coat the Cauliflower

Coat each cauliflower floret evenly in the tempura batter:
1. Place them on the prepared baking sheet or in your air fryer basket.
2. Ensure they are in a single layer without overcrowding.

Step 6: Cook the Cauliflower

Lightly spray or brush with cooking oil:
1. Air fry for approximately 17 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. If baking, cook for about 20–22 minutes, also flipping halfway for even browning.

Now you can enjoy your deliciously crispy Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower!

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

Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides and sauces. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice – The fluffy texture of jasmine rice complements the spicy gochujang sauce beautifully.
• Coconut Rice – Add a hint of sweetness and creaminess by serving the cauliflower over coconut rice.

As a Snack

• Korean-Inspired Nachos – Top tortilla chips with air-fried cauliflower, cheese, and green onions for a fun twist on nachos.
• Gochujang Dipping Sauce – Serve with a side of creamy dipping sauce made from yogurt, gochujang, and lime juice for an extra kick.

In Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps – Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the cauliflower with fresh herbs and a drizzle of sesame oil for a light meal.
• Rice Paper Rolls – Roll the cauliflower in rice paper with fresh vegetables for a refreshing appetizer.

As Part of a Platter

• Veggie Platter – Serve air-fried cauliflower alongside raw veggies and hummus for a colorful snack spread.
• Korean BBQ Platter – Combine it with grilled meats and other sides like kimchi for an authentic Korean experience.

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

Achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower is easy with these tips.

• Use Cold Seltzer Water – Starting with very cold seltzer water helps create a light, crispy batter.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket – Ensure even cooking by placing florets in a single layer; work in batches if necessary.
• Adjust the Spice Level – Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of gochujang based on your spice preference.
• Coat Evenly – Make sure each floret is well-coated in batter for consistent crispiness and flavor.
• Flip Midway Through Cooking – Flipping ensures all sides become golden brown and crispy while cooking in the air fryer or oven.
• Let it Rest Before Serving – Allowing the cauliflower to sit for a few minutes after cooking can help maintain its crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)

Pair your Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower with these delicious side dishes to create a complete meal.

1. Kimchi Fried Rice – A flavorful stir-fry made with leftover rice, kimchi, and veggies. Quick to prepare!
2. Sesame Spinach Salad – Fresh spinach tossed with sesame oil, seeds, and soy dressing adds great color and nutrition.
3. Pickled Vegetables – Crunchy pickled cucumbers or radishes balance the spicy cauliflower perfectly.
4. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed salad mixed with chopped veggies, herbs, and sesame dressing for added texture.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes provide a sweet contrast to the spicy flavors of the cauliflower.
6. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup rounds out your meal nicely with comforting umami flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding these common mistakes can greatly enhance your Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang) experience.

• Ignoring the temperature: Not preheating your air fryer or oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure it’s at the right temperature before adding the cauliflower.
• Overcrowding the basket: Placing too many florets at once can result in soggy cauliflower. Ensure they are in a single layer for optimal crispiness.
• Skipping the coating: For the best flavor and texture, don’t skip the tempura batter. It’s essential for that crispy exterior that holds onto the gochujang sauce.
• Using non-cold seltzer water: Cold seltzer creates a lighter batter. Make sure it’s extra cold for better results.
• Not adjusting seasoning: If you prefer less sweetness, adjust the maple syrup accordingly. Taste and modify before cooking for a balance that suits you.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours before transferring to an airtight container.
• Can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, flipping occasionally until warm. Note that this method may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, tossing occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang).

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

You can use a gluten-free flour blend or brown rice flour as mentioned in the recipe. This ensures everyone can enjoy this dish!

Can I customize the spice level?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of Korean chili paste according to your heat preference. You can also add extra spices if you like it spicier.

Is there a vegan substitute for honey?

Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar is a great alternative for sweetness without using honey.

How do I serve Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang)?

Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or main course! It pairs well with rice or salad for a complete meal.

Can I bake instead of air-fry?

Yes! The recipe provides instructions for both methods so you can choose your preferred cooking style.

Final Thoughts

This Air-Fried Korean Chili Cauliflower (Gochujang) is not only delicious but also versatile. Customize it with your favorite spices or serve alongside grains and veggies for a complete meal. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its crispy texture and bold flavors!