These Sweet Chili Cauliflower Bites are the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory. The cauliflower florets are coated in a crispy, golden batter, then tossed in a delicious sweet chili sauce that adds the perfect amount of heat and sweetness. Whether I serve them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these cauliflower bites are always a hit. They’re not just tasty but also a healthier alternative to fried chicken or other fried snacks, and they’re great for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet!
Healthier Option Without Sacrificing Flavor
I love that these Sweet Chili Cauliflower Bites are a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. Cauliflower is a low-calorie, nutrient-packed vegetable that’s high in fiber and vitamins, and by baking instead of frying, I keep them light and crispy without the extra oil. The sweet chili sauce adds bold flavor without too many extra calories, making these bites the perfect guilt-free treat!
What You Need to Make Sweet Chili Cauliflower Bites:
- 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup flour (all-purpose or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for coating)
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
Instructions to Make Sweet Chili Cauliflower Bites:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Gradually add water, whisking until a smooth batter forms.
- Toss the cauliflower florets in the batter, making sure they are evenly coated.
- Arrange the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden and crispy.
- While the cauliflower bakes, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar in a bowl.
- Once the cauliflower is done, toss it in the sweet chili sauce mixture until fully coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
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- Creamy Reuben Soup
- Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars
Why I Love These Sweet Chili Cauliflower Bites
I love these Sweet Chili Cauliflower Bites because they’re packed with flavor, and the texture is just perfect. The crispy cauliflower gives me that satisfying crunch, while the sweet chili sauce adds the right amount of heat and sweetness. They’re also surprisingly light but so satisfying, making them a great option when I want something flavorful without feeling weighed down. Plus, they’re vegan and can easily be made gluten-free, so they’re perfect for any dietary preference!
Perfect for Any Occasion
These cauliflower bites are so versatile! They’re perfect for game day, parties, or a casual movie night. Whether I serve them as a snack, appetizer, or even as a side dish, they never fail to impress. They’re easy to prepare ahead of time and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them a great option for picnics or gatherings.
Sweet Chili Cauliflower Bites: A Flavor-Packed Vegan Snack
Ingredients
- 1 medium cauliflower cut into florets
- 1/2 cup flour all-purpose or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for coating
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- Fresh cilantro optional for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Gradually add water, whisking until a smooth batter forms.
- Toss the cauliflower florets in the batter, making sure they are evenly coated.
- Arrange the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden and crispy.
- While the cauliflower bakes, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar in a bowl.
- Once the cauliflower is done, toss it in the sweet chili sauce mixture until fully coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use chickpea flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of sweet chili sauce based on your preferred spice level.