Vegan Cheesy Cauliflower Bites
These bites are savory, golden nuggets of cauliflower coated in a flavorful vegan cheese mixture. Nutritional yeast gives them that signature cheesy taste, while spices and a crunchy coating make them utterly addictive — and guilt-free.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- ¾ cup unsweetened plant-based milk (like almond, oat, or soy)
- ½ cup chickpea flour (or all-purpose/gluten-free flour)
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: pinch of turmeric for color
For optional crispy coating:
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
- Dash of olive oil spray (for extra crispness)
Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Make the Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the plant milk, chickpea flour, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and turmeric (if using) until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but still drip slowly.
3. Coat the Cauliflower:
Add the cauliflower florets to the batter and toss until each piece is well-coated.
4. Optional Crumb Coating:
In a separate bowl or plate, mix the breadcrumbs and a tablespoon of nutritional yeast. Roll each coated cauliflower floret in the crumb mixture for extra crunch, then place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Spray lightly with olive oil if desired. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve hot with your favorite vegan dipping sauce — like ranch, chipotle mayo, or spicy ketchup. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or a little extra nutritional yeast for a finishing touch.
Tips & Variations:
- Air fryer option: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the batter.
- Kid-friendly: Serve with dairy-free ranch or ketchup.
