Name: Crispy Asian BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 head Cauliflower (Broccoli can be a tasty alternative.); 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs (Regular breadcrumbs can work in a pinch.); 2 large Eggs (Flax eggs can be used for a vegan option.); 1/2 cup Hoisin Sauce (Mix soy sauce with brown sugar for a homemade version.); 2 tbsp Honey (Maple syrup is a great vegan swap.); 1 tbsp Soy Sauce (Coconut aminos can be used for a soy-free alternative.); 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar (Apple cider vinegar can also work.); 1 tbsp Ketchup (A blend of tomato paste and sugar can substitute.); 1 tbsp Sesame Oil (Olive oil can be a replacement.); 1 tsp Ground Ginger (Fresh ginger elevates flavor.); 3 cloves Garlic (Reduce amount if sensitive to taste.); 1 tbsp Corn Starch (Arrowroot powder can also work.)

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As I rummaged through my pantry, a simple head of cauliflower caught my eye, sparking a delightful idea. Why not transform this humble vegetable into crispy Asian BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings? This dish is not only an easy appetizer perfect for game nights or gatherings, but it’s also a nutritious alternative to traditional wings that’s vegan and gluten-free. With the satisfying crunch from the air fryer and the rich, sweet, and sticky glaze, these bite-sized wonders are bound to wow your taste buds in just 30 minutes. Curious how to make this flavor-packed dish that even non-vegetarians will love? Let’s dive into the recipe!

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Why You’ll Crave These Cauliflower Wings?

Crispy outside, tender inside: The air fryer delivers a perfect crunch, mimicking traditional wings without the guilt.
Flavor explosion: The rich Asian BBQ sauce offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that will please any palate.
Vegan and gluten-free: Enjoy these wings without compromising dietary needs, making them a hit for everyone.
Quick and easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a fantastic appetizer that impresses friends and family.
Versatile pairing options: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces or alongside dishes like Bbq Chicken Tostadas for a complete meal.
Crowd-pleaser: Even hard-to-please eaters will be coming back for seconds!

Asian BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Wings
• Cauliflower – The star ingredient that provides a hearty base; broccoli can be a tasty alternative.
• Panko Bread Crumbs – These create that delightful crispy coating; regular breadcrumbs will work if you’re in a pinch.
• Eggs – They bind the breading perfectly to the cauliflower; try flax eggs for a vegan option.

For the BBQ Sauce
• Hoisin Sauce – Gives a sweet and savory punch to the wings; mix soy sauce with brown sugar for a homemade version.
• Honey – Sweetens the sauce beautifully; maple syrup is a great vegan swap here.
• Soy Sauce – Adds a depth of umami flavor; coconut aminos can be used for a soy-free alternative.
• Rice Vinegar – Balances the sweetness with acidity; apple cider vinegar can also work wonders.
• Ketchup – Infuses tangy sweetness; a blend of tomato paste and sugar can be a suitable substitute.
• Sesame Oil – Contributes a rich, nutty flavor; if you don’t have it, olive oil can be an okay replacement.
• Ground Ginger – Provides warmth and spice; fresh ginger elevates the flavor even more.
• Garlic – Mmmm, deliciously pungent; cut back if you’re sensitive to its strong taste.
• Corn Starch – Helps thicken your sauce for that perfect coating; arrowroot powder can also do the trick.

Feel free to get creative with these ingredients as you make your Asian BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings your own!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Asian BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your cauliflower wings achieve that desired crispiness. Allow about 5 minutes for the air fryer to reach temperature while you prepare the cauliflower.

Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower
Wash and dry a whole head of cauliflower, then cut it into bite-sized florets, making sure to remove any tough stems. The uniformity of the pieces will help them cook evenly, creating deliciously crispy Asian BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station
In a mixing bowl, whisk together your eggs until well combined. In a separate shallow dish, place your panko bread crumbs. This two-step process allows for easy breading—just dip, coat, and get ready for your air fryer!

Step 4: Bread the Cauliflower
Take each cauliflower piece and dip it into the whisked eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat the piece thoroughly with the panko bread crumbs, ensuring a crunchy exterior. Repeat this until all cauliflower pieces are nicely breaded.

Step 5: Air-Fry the Cauliflower
Arrange the breaded cauliflower wings in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded for optimal air circulation. Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through to achieve golden-brown crispiness on all sides.

Step 6: Make the BBQ Sauce
While the cauliflower is air frying, prepare the luscious BBQ sauce. In a saucepan, combine hoisin sauce, honey (or maple syrup for vegan), soy sauce, ketchup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, and minced garlic. Heat over medium until well mixed and fragrant, stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, prepare the cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with a little cold water until smooth. Add this mixture to your simmering sauce and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens, achieving the perfect consistency for coat your Asian BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings.

Step 8: Toss and Serve
Once the wings are cooked and crispy, remove them from the air fryer. Immediately toss the warm cauliflower wings in the thickened BBQ sauce until they are evenly coated. Serve them hot for an irresistible appetizer that bursts with flavor!

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How to Store and Freeze Asian BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings

Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or the oven for best texture, but be mindful that they may lose some crispiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked, breaded cauliflower wings on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen—simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating: When reheating, consider using the air fryer or oven to help restore the crispy texture that makes these Asian BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings so enjoyable.

Thawing Tips: If frozen, it’s best to cook them directly without thawing. If you prefer to thaw first, do so in the refrigerator overnight.

Asian BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists to make the recipe uniquely yours!

Spicy Kick: Add Sriracha to the BBQ sauce for a fiery flavor boost that will tantalize your taste buds. Feel the heat as you enjoy each crispy bite!
Umami Upgrade: Substitute half the hoisin sauce with oyster sauce. This change introduces a deeper, richer flavor that takes the wings to another level.
Crispy Coating: Experiment with crushed cornflakes or almond flour instead of panko for an even crispier texture. Each bite will delight with unexpected crunch.
Herbaceous Touch: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the breadcrumbs for an aromatic lift. This brightens up the dish and adds an extra layer of flavor you’ll love.
Sweet and Savory Optional: Swap honey for agave syrup or maple syrup to keep them vegan-friendly while delivering that sweet touch to the dish. A delightful compromise that doesn’t sacrifice taste!
Different Sauces: Try a tangy barbecue sauce instead of hoisin for a regional twist. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce, like a creamy ranch or spicy mayo.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and coconut aminos to ensure no one misses out on these tasty wings, making it accessible for all diets.
Seasoning Magic: Add a pinch of red chili flakes for extra heat or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. These spices can transform the entire taste sensation.

Feel inspired to mix and match! If you’re looking for more air fryer ideas, you might enjoy my Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips or Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls that pair beautifully with your cauliflower wings!

What to Serve with Crispy Asian BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings

Perfectly balanced flavors and textures make these crispy bites an ideal centerpiece for your next gathering or family dinner.

Creamy Coleslaw: This chilled and crunchy side dish adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, sticky cauliflower wings, balancing flavors perfectly. The creaminess also helps offset the savory notes of the BBQ sauce.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Soft and fragrant, jasmine rice is the perfect accompaniment, soaking up the delicious BBQ sauce. You can even mix in some peas and carrots for a pop of color and additional nutrition.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms add a smoky, charred flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet and sticky wings, enhancing the overall experience.
Spicy Szechuan Noodles: These noodles bring a bit of heat and a touch of tanginess to the table, creating a delightful flavor adventure when enjoyed alongside the wings.
Garlic Edamame: This protein-packed snack offers a fun, finger-food vibe to your meal. Lightly salted and tossed with garlic, they provide a satisfying crunch and a burst of umami flavor.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, a cucumber salad drizzled with sesame dressing adds a crisp texture that contrasts nicely with the warm cauliflower, making every bite a delight.
Fruit-Infused Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink featuring slices of lemon, lime, or berries is the perfect way to cleanse your palate between bites, keeping your taste buds refreshed and ready for more wings.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse provides a sweet ending that balances the savory wings, offering a delightful contrast and a celebratory touch to your meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Asian BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in deliciousness without the last-minute fuss! You can clean and cut the cauliflower florets and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Additionally, prepare the BBQ sauce ahead of time by mixing all ingredients, then refrigerating it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, bread the cauliflower, and air fry as directed. For optimal crispiness, consider air-frying the wings fresh from the fridge instead of letting them sit out, ensuring that they remain just as delightful and crunchy!

Expert Tips for Asian BBQ Cauliflower Wings

Space Matters: Ensure cauliflower pieces aren’t overcrowded in the air fryer for optimal crispiness. Air circulation is key to achieving that perfect crunch.
Flip for Even Cooking: If using a convection oven, remember to flip the cauliflower halfway through cooking. This enhances even browning and results in deliciously crispy wings.
Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve your Asian BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings right away. Leftovers can be stored but will lose their crispness over time.
Prep Ahead: Freeze uncooked, breaded cauliflower ahead of time. Just air fry them straight from the freezer; add extra cook time to ensure they’re thoroughly cooked.
Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to tweak the BBQ sauce ingredients for personal taste. Add Sriracha for heat or vary the sweeteners; it allows you to cater to everyone’s preferences!

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Asian BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best cauliflower for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting cauliflower, look for heads that are firm and heavy for their size, with tightly packed florets and no dark spots. A little discoloration is okay, but avoid any with soft or wilting spots, as those indicate over-ripeness. Freshness is key for achieving that delightful crunch.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Leftover Asian BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave for a quick bite, but for the best texture, use the air fryer or oven to restore their crispiness.

Can I freeze these cauliflower wings?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the uncooked, breaded cauliflower wings on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time for a deliciously hot treat.

What if my BBQ sauce isn’t thickening?
Don’t worry! If your sauce isn’t thickening, ensure you’ve added the cornstarch slurry to the sauce at the right time and allowed it to simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stirring continuously will help activate the emulsification. If it’s still too thin, you can mix in a bit more cornstarch dissolved in cold water and simmer again until you reach your desired consistency.

Are these wings safe for people with allergies?
Very! This recipe can accommodate various dietary needs. If you’re allergic to soy, substitute regular soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. For gluten-free diets, ensure that your panko bread crumbs and sauces are certified gluten-free. As for pets, avoid sharing the wings, particularly because of the garlic and onion content, which can be harmful to animals.

How long can I keep these wings in the fridge before they go bad?
You can keep your Asian BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To savor their crunch, it’s best to reheat them right before serving. Enjoy those tasty bites while they’re at their freshest!