Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower Tots Recipe
These Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower Tots are a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional junk food snacks. Made with finely chopped cauliflower, cheese, and a blend of flavorful seasonings, these tots are steamed then air fried to a perfect golden crisp. They are quick to prepare, use simple ingredients, and come with an optional spicy Greek yogurt dipping sauce to add a zesty kick. Ideal for a guilt-free snack or kid-friendly appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 15-18 cauliflower tots
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower Base
- 2 cups Cauliflower florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 large Egg
- ½ cup Breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crispiness)
For Flavor and Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Fresh herbs (parsley or chives, optional)
Optional Dipping Sauce
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Hot sauce or sriracha
Instructions
- Steam the Cauliflower: Place cauliflower florets in a steamer basket over simmering water, cover and steam for about 5 minutes until fork-tender. Transfer the cooked cauliflower onto a clean towel and squeeze out all excess moisture to ensure the tots hold together well.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained cauliflower with shredded cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and fresh herbs if using. Stir well until the mixture becomes cohesive and slightly sticky, which will help form the tots.
- Shape the Tots: Using a tablespoon, scoop the mixture and gently roll between your palms into logs about 1½ inches long. Place each tot on a parchment-lined tray for easy handling and transfer to the air fryer.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat for 3 minutes before adding the tots.
- Air Fry the Tots: Arrange the tots in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes, turning the tots once halfway through the cooking time. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside when done.
Notes
- Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from steamed cauliflower to prevent soggy tots.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
- Feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or chives to enhance flavor.
- The optional dipping sauce combines Greek yogurt and hot sauce for a creamy and spicy accompaniment.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model; monitor for desired crispiness.
