Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe

Introduction

Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower is a delightful, plant-based alternative to traditional buffalo wings. Perfectly roasted cauliflower florets are coated in a spicy, tangy buffalo sauce, making for a satisfying appetizer, snack, or side dish that adheres to a vegan diet. This recipe is not only bursting with bold flavors but also aligns with dietary preferences such as low-carb, gluten-free, and Weight Watchers-friendly. The combination of crispy cauliflower and zesty buffalo sauce is sure to please both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower:

  • Cauliflower: 1 large head, cut into bite-sized florets
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
  • Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
  • Almond Flour: 1/2 cup (optional, for extra crispiness)

For the Buffalo Sauce:

  • Buffalo Sauce: 1/2 cup (ensure it’s vegan; some brands contain dairy)
  • Vegan Butter: 2 tablespoons (melted; use plant-based butter or margarine)
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
  • Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (adjust to taste for desired heat level)

For Garnish and Serving:

  • Celery Sticks: 4-5, cut into sticks
  • Carrot Sticks: 4-5, cut into sticks
  • Ranch Dressing: 1/2 cup (vegan ranch dressing; store-bought or homemade)
  • Fresh Cilantro: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large Bowl: For mixing the cauliflower and seasonings
  • Baking Sheet: For roasting the cauliflower
  • Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup
  • Medium Bowl: For mixing the buffalo sauce
  • Whisk: For combining ingredients
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements
  • Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping vegetables

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature will help achieve a crispy texture for the cauliflower.
  2. Prepare Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower head into bite-sized florets. Try to keep the pieces uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
  3. Season Cauliflower: In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. For added crunch, toss with 1/2 cup of almond flour.
  4. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on the sheet to allow for even roasting.
  5. Roasting: Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The florets should be golden brown and crispy on the edges.
  6. Make Buffalo Sauce: While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of buffalo sauce, 2 tablespoons of melted vegan butter, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  7. Toss Cauliflower: Once the cauliflower is roasted and crispy, remove it from the oven. Transfer the hot cauliflower to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the cauliflower and toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
  8. Return to Oven (Optional): For extra crispiness, return the coated cauliflower to the baking sheet and roast for an additional 5 minutes.
  9. Prepare Garnishes: While the cauliflower finishes cooking, cut celery and carrot sticks into bite-sized pieces. Arrange them on a serving platter alongside a small bowl of vegan ranch dressing.
  10. Serve: Transfer the buffalo cauliflower to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired. Serve immediately with celery and carrot sticks, and vegan ranch dressing for dipping.
  11. Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover buffalo cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain crispiness.
  12. Freezing Instructions: For long-term storage, freeze the cooked cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes.
  13. Nutritional Information (Per Serving, about 1 cup):
    • Calories: 150
    • Total Fat: 10g
    • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
    • Cholesterol: 0mg
    • Sodium: 800mg
    • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
    • Dietary Fiber: 4g
    • Sugars: 3g
    • Protein: 5g
  14. Weight Watchers SmartPoints:
    • Freestyle SmartPoints: 4 points per serving
    • SmartPoints: 4 points per serving
    • PointsPlus: 3 points per serving
  15. Tips for Success:
    • Crispiness: Ensure the cauliflower is spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet to achieve the best crispy texture.
    • Sauce Consistency: Adjust the amount of vegan butter in the buffalo sauce to your preference for a richer or lighter sauce.
    • Spice Level: Modify the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level according to your taste.
  16. Variations:
    • Different Sauces: Experiment with other vegan sauces like BBQ or teriyaki for a unique twist on this dish.
    • Additional Spices: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder to the seasoning mix for more depth of flavor.
  17. Serving Suggestions:
    • Wraps: Serve the buffalo cauliflower in a wrap with fresh veggies and a smear of vegan ranch dressing for a quick meal.
    • Salad Topper: Add buffalo cauliflower to a green salad for an exciting and flavorful topping.
  18. Pairings:
    • Side Dishes: Pair with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a balanced meal.
    • Beverages: Complement with a refreshing beverage like iced herbal tea or a light lemonade.
  19. Health Benefits:
    • Cauliflower: A great source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, which can support overall health and digestion.
    • Vegan Buffalo Sauce: Provides a kick of flavor without the added calories and cholesterol of traditional sauces.
  20. Final Thoughts:
    • Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower is a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that fits well into various dietary plans. Whether you’re looking for a game-day snack, a party appetizer, or a healthy side dish, this recipe delivers on taste and nutritional value. Enjoy the spicy, tangy goodness of buffalo cauliflower with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

This Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower recipe offers a satisfying alternative to traditional buffalo wings, perfect for those following a vegan lifestyle or anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet. With its bold flavors and crispy texture, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.