Air Fryer Cauliflower Tots Recipe

Cauliflower: The main ingredient, providing a healthy and flavorful base for the tots.

Breadcrumbs: Used to bind the tots and give them a crispy texture.

Cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy flavor to the tots.

Parmesan cheese: Enhances the flavor with a sharp, salty taste.

Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the ingredients together.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor.

Onion powder: Provides a mild onion taste.

When steaming the cauliflower, make sure to drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture. This will help the tots hold their shape better and achieve a crispier texture in the air fryer. Additionally, you can squeeze the mashed cauliflower in a clean kitchen towel to ensure it's as dry as possible before mixing with the other ingredients.

• chopped cauliflower - Substitute with broccoli florets: Broccoli has a similar texture and can be used to create a different but equally delicious flavor profile.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes provide a similar crunchy texture and are a gluten-free alternative.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts well and offers a milder flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and nutty flavor, making it a good alternative.

• large egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: Mixing 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water can act as a binding agent, suitable for a vegan option.

• garlic powder - Substitute with minced fresh garlic: Fresh garlic provides a more intense and aromatic flavor.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Fresh onions add a more robust and natural onion flavor.

• Allow the cauliflower tots to cool completely after cooking. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Place the cooled cauliflower tots in an airtight container. If stacking them, separate each layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The cauliflower tots will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

• For longer storage, arrange the cauliflower tots on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once frozen, transfer the cauliflower tots to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• When ready to enjoy, reheat the cauliflower tots directly from the freezer in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

• For best results, avoid microwaving as it can make the cauliflower tots less crispy.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover cauliflower tots in a single layer in the basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.

• For a quick oven method, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the cauliflower tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.

• If you prefer using a microwave, place the cauliflower tots on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway to avoid overcooking.

• To reheat on the stovetop, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Place the cauliflower tots in the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they are heated through and crispy on the outside.

• For a toaster oven, preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place the cauliflower tots on the toaster oven tray. Heat for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are warmed and crispy.

• Air fryer: Used to cook the cauliflower tots to a golden brown and crispy texture without deep frying.

• Steamer basket: Utilized to steam the cauliflower until it becomes tender.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine the mashed cauliflower with other ingredients.

• Masher: Helps in mashing the steamed cauliflower to the desired consistency.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

• Spatula: Useful for mixing the ingredients thoroughly.

• Knife: Needed to chop the cauliflower head into smaller pieces before steaming.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop the cauliflower.

• Air fryer basket: The component of the air fryer where the tots are placed in a single layer for cooking.

• Tongs: Handy for shaking the air fryer basket halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.

• Baking sheet: Can be used to place the shaped tots before transferring them to the air fryer basket.

Pre-cut cauliflower: Buy pre-cut cauliflower to save time on chopping and steaming.

Use a food processor: Quickly mash the steamed cauliflower using a food processor.

Pre-measured ingredients: Measure out the breadcrumbs, cheeses, and spices in advance.

Batch cooking: Make a large batch and freeze extra tots for future use.

Non-stick spray: Use non-stick spray on the air fryer basket to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.