Vegan Cauliflower Nuggets

Deep-fried Vegan Cauliflower Nuggets are crispy and delicious, as tasty as any fried fast-food product. Every bite has a golden crust that is crisp and a soft cauliflower heart. Their taste is neither too bold nor too subtle, with the breading being finished off with garlic, paprika, and herbs. It is an added touch of excitement to dip in ketchup, vegan mayo, or spicy sauces. In contrast to nuggets purchased in the stores, the presented recipe is fresh, nutritious, and completely vegan. Deep-fried Vegan Cauliflower Nuggets demonstrate that vegetables can also be comfort food without the loss of their original flavor.

STATS

• Diet: Vegan
• Course: Snack, Appetizer, Side dish
• Cuisine: American-inspired
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Serving size: 6 to 7 nuggets
• Yield: 4 servings
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cooking method: Deep-fry

EQUIPMENT

• Large pot/deep fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon
• Tongs
• Paper towels for draining

INGREDIENTS

• One medium head of cauliflower, divided into small florets
• A cup of all-purpose flour One cup of plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
• A teaspoon of powdered garlic
• One teaspoon of powdered onion
• A teaspoon of paprika smoked
• Half a teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1/2 a teaspoon each of salt and black pepper
• One cup of normal or panko breadcrumbs
• The preferred vegan dipping sauce for cooking in vegetable oil

INGREDIENT NOTES

Cauliflower:

• Fresh cauliflower is not bad. Cut into florets equally to cook at the same speed. The smaller pieces become crisp, and the larger pieces remain soft on the inside.

Plant‑based milk:

• Soy, almond, or oat milk (unsweetened) makes a fine batter. Provides a light moisture and makes the breading adherent.

Garlic and onion powder:

• These are herbs with a savory-rich taste. They add flavor to the nuggets and do not overpower the cauliflower.

Smoked paprika:

• Adds smoky depth and warm color. Makes the nuggets look appetizing with gold.

Dried oregano:

• Brings a light, herby taste. Compares the more powerful spices to freshness.

Breadcrumbs:

• The nuggets are crispiest with panko. Ordinary breadcrumbs can also be used, but the crunch is going to be less intense.

Vegan dipping sauce:

• These nuggets are good with ketchup, BBQ sauce, vegan ranch, or chili mayo.

DIRECTIONS

1. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces after washing it.
2. Dry by patting.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger powder, onion powder, spicy oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix the plant-based milk into the flour mixture gradually.
5. Beat till silky, creating a batter.
6. In a separate dish, place the breadcrumbs.
7. In a big saucepan or deep fryer, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).
8. Roll each cauliflower floret in breadcrumbs after dipping it into the batter.
9. Evenly coat. Fry the nuggets in small batches for 3 to 4 minutes, or till golden brown and crisp.
10. Using a slotted spoon, remove excess oil and place on paper towels to drain.
11. Continue with the remaining cauliflower. Serve hot, along with your preferred dipping sauce.

TIPS

• Do not overload the fryer. It reduces the oil temperature and causes the nuggets to be wet.
• A large bunch of nuggets can be kept hot in the oven at 200°F.
• To make the batter spicy, add chilli powder.
• You need to eat these nuggets when they are hot and crispy.

DATA STORAGE

Refrigerate:

• Keep leftovers for at least two days in a sealed airtight bag.To restore crispness, reheat in the oven for 10 minutes at 375°F.

Freezer:

• Place the uncooked breaded florets on a dish and freeze them before putting them in a bag. Fry straight from the freezer and add 1 to 2 minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Can I roast these nuggets rather than fry them?

• Yes. Bake at 425 °F (220 °C) for 25–30 minutes, flip once, and cook until golden.

Are they crispy in storage?

• They will lose crunch, but then they can crisp up again in an oven or in an air fryer.

Are these kid‑friendly?

• Yes. They have a sweet taste, are tasty & excellent finger food.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

Calories: 260
Protein: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 5 g Fat: 9 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Sodium: 420 mg
Calcium: 4% DV
Iron: 10% DV