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    Home » Recipes » Easy Indian Sides

    Easy Air Fryer Cauliflower Recipe (Masala Gobi)

    Published: Sep 27, 2023 by Shilpa Kerur · This post may contain affiliate links. Leave a Comment

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    5 from 82 votes
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    Air fryer cauliflower with Indian spices is a delicious and healthy dish that is quick and easy to make. This masala gobi can be customized to your liking and is a great way to enjoy cauliflower in a new and exciting way.

    Serve the air fryer masala cauliflower bites with your favorite dipping sauce, chutney, raita, or tandoori mayo. Air-fried cauliflower is delicious on its own or can be served as a perfect side dish with the main meal.

    Air fryer roasted cauliflower placed on a white plate.

    Why you will love this recipe?

    • Flavorful: Indian spices are known for their bold flavor. This roasted cauliflower recipe uses a combination of aromatic spices to create a crispy cauliflower dish that is both flavorful and healthy.
    • Quick and easy: Preparing cauliflower in an air fryer is generally quick and hassle-free, making it a convenient dish for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Check out more delicious Indian cauliflower recipes here.

    Ingredients

    Cauliflower: Use cauliflower with a head that is firm and compact. Cut them into even-sized florets to ensure they are cooked evenly.

    Spices: I am using ground coriander, ground cumin, chili powder (sub with cayenne), turmeric, and salt to make air fryer cauliflower.

    See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

    Variations

    Onion-garlic: Season the cauliflower with a combination of garlic powder and onion powder, along with salt and black pepper.

    Parmesan-crusted: After tossing cauliflower in olive oil and spices, coat it generously in grated Parmesan cheese. Air fry until the Parmesan forms a crispy, golden crust for a savory and cheesy flavor in the roasted cauliflower.

    Panko breaded: After seasoning with your favorite seasonings, coat cauliflower florets in panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Air fry until the panko turns golden brown and crispy. This adds a delightful texture when you air fry cauliflower.

    Italian seasoning: For a delicious Italian-inspired variation of air fryer roasted cauliflower, coat the cauliflower florets in olive oil and generously sprinkle them with Italian herbs, like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.

    Step-by-step instructions

    Seasoned florets placed in a grey bowl.
    Step 1: Prepare the seasoning using spices and season the cauliflower florets.
    Seasoned florets placed in a single layer in the basket.
    Step 2: Place the seasoned cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
    Crispy roasted florets in the air fryer basket.

    Step 3: Air fry them at 390 F (190 C) for 12-15 minutes or until they are slightly brown and have crispy edges. Shake the basket halfway through.

    Crispy and golden roasted cauliflower.

    Step 4: Transfer the cooked cauliflower to a serving plate. Top with cilantro and drizzle lemon juice (or lime juice). Serve roasted cauliflower warm or cold.

    Expert Tips

    Cut the cauliflower florets into even pieces. This will help to ensure that they cook evenly.

    Mix the seasoning and oil in a separate bowl and add it to the cauliflower floret. This will ensure even coating on all the florets.

    Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, cook the cauliflower in batches if necessary.

    Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking. This will help to prevent the cauliflower from sticking to the basket and ensure that it cooks evenly.

    Serving Suggestion for roasted cauliflower

    As a side dish: Serve air fryer roasted cauliflower as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite main courses. It pairs well with grilled chicken, pork chops, or vegetarian options like lentil soup or paneer dishes.

    Appetizer: Serve roasted cauliflower as an appetizer for gatherings or parties. Serve it with a tasty dipping sauce like yogurt-based raita, tahini, or a spicy mint chutney for a delightful finger food.

    Bowl, salad, or soups: Include the air fryer cauliflower as a component in grain bowls or salads. Combine it with quinoa, sorghum, or red rice, and add toppings like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese. Drizzle with your favorite dressing. You can also top this on soups like creamy cauliflower soup or butternut squash soup.

    Sandwich or wrap: Stuff roasted cauliflower into a sandwich or wrap with your preferred condiments and veggies for a satisfying lunch option. It works particularly well in pita bread or naan bread.

    Recipe FAQs

    How do I choose the best cauliflower for air frying?

    To choose the best cauliflower for air frying, look for a head that is firm, compact, and free from blemishes or discolorations. The leaves surrounding the cauliflower should be fresh and vibrant. Additionally, check that the florets are tightly closed, as this indicates freshness.

    Can I use frozen cauliflower for air frying?

    While fresh cauliflower gives the best texture and flavor in air-frying recipes, you can use frozen cauliflower as a convenient alternative. However, keep in mind that frozen cauliflower may release more moisture during cooking, which can affect the crispiness. So, it is important to thaw and pat dry the frozen cauliflower before air frying. You may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure it reaches the desired level of doneness and crispiness.

    How to store leftover air fryer cauliflower?

    To store leftover air fryer cauliflower, allow it to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for up to 4-5 days. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer to help maintain its crispy texture, or enjoy it cold as a snack or in salads.

    How do I prevent the cauliflower from becoming soggy?

    To prevent cauliflower from becoming soggy when air frying, it's crucial to remove excess moisture. After washing and cutting the cauliflower into florets, pat them thoroughly dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. This step helps create a crispy exterior during air frying by reducing moisture that can lead to sogginess. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as too many florets can trap steam and hinder proper crisping.

    Can I freeze leftover roasted cauliflower?

    Yes, you can freeze leftover roasted cauliflower, making it a great meal prep option. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you are ready to use it, thaw the cauliflower in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven or air fryer to help restore its crispiness. Keep in mind that the texture may not be as crisp as when freshly prepared, but the flavor will still be delicious.

    Air fryer cauliflower.

    More air fryer recipes

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      Air Fryer Okra / Crispy Kurkuri Bhindi (V+GF)
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    • Curried roasted carrots.
      Curried Roasted Carrots (Air Fryer)
    • Air fryer roasted pumpkin cubes placed on a white plate.
      Air Fryer Pumpkin with Indian Spices (Quick and Easy)

    If you tried this Air Fryer Cauliflower / Masala Gobi Recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a ? star rating and let me know how it went in the ? comments below.

    Recipe card

    Air fryer roasted cauliflower placed on a white plate.

    Air Fryer Cauliflower / Masala Gobi

    Spice up your meals with our Indian-spiced air fryer cauliflower recipe. Vegan, gluten-free, and perfect as a side dish or delicious snack.
    5 from 82 votes
    Print Pin Rate Google logo Add Preferred Source
    Author: Shilpa Kerur
    Course: Side Dish
    Cuisine: Indian
    Servings: 4
    Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
    Cook Time: 15 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 20 minutes minutes

    Equipment

    • Air fryer
    • Mixing bowl

    Ingredients

    • 1 medium cauliflower head (cut into florets)
    • 2 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
    • ½ teaspoon red chili powder (use paprika for a milder version)
    • ½ tsp ground cumin
    • ½ teaspoon ground coriander
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ½ lemon or lime
    • 1-2 tablespoon cilantro
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    Instructions

    • Cut the whole cauliflower into small to medium-sized florets, roughly the same size for even cooking. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
    • In another small bowl, combine together olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, and salt. Give it a good stir.
    • Add this seasoning to the cauliflower. Toss them well making sure the florets are well coated in the seasoning.
    • Place the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
    • Air fry them at 390 F (190 C) for 12-15 minutes or until slightly brown and crisp. Shake the basket halfway through.
    • Transfer to a serving plate. Top with cilantro and drizzle lemon juice (or lime juice). Serve warm or cold.

    Notes

    Cut the cauliflower florets into even pieces. This will help to ensure that they cook evenly.
    Mix the seasoning and oil in a separate bowl and add it to the cauliflower floret. This will ensure even coating on all the florets.
    Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, cook the cauliflower in batches if necessary.
    Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking. This will help to prevent the cauliflower from sticking to the basket and ensure that it cooks evenly.
    Calories: 105kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 339mg | Potassium: 467mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 80IU | Vitamin C: 77mg | Calcium: 41mg | Iron: 1mg
    Tried this Recipe? Share it Today!Mention @easyindiancookbook or tag #easyindiancookbook!

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